This Cheesy Baked Feta Veggie Pasta is a yummy dish that’s packed with colorful vegetables and creamy feta cheese. It’s baked until everything is warm and bubbly, making it perfect for sharing!
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is. Just toss everything in a dish, let it bake, and you’re set for a cozy meal. Plus, the cheesy topping is almost impossible to resist! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Rigatoni or penne are great choices for this recipe, but any pasta you have on hand will do! If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using chickpea or lentil pasta instead.
Feta Cheese: This is the star ingredient for its creamy texture and tangy flavor. If you want a milder taste, goat cheese makes a good substitute. Alternatively, use a block of cream cheese for a different creamy texture!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add pops of sweetness to the dish. If they’re out of season, you can use canned diced tomatoes instead. Just drain them well before using.
Zucchini: Feel free to swap this out for other veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli to mix it up! Use what’s fresh or in your fridge.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives a wonderful flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder can work in a pinch—about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
How Do I Get the Feta Creamy and Delicious?
The key to a luscious sauce is proper baking and mixing. Start by ensuring your feta is in the center of the dish, surrounded by veggies. This will help it heat evenly. When it’s ready, use a fork to mash the feta into the tomatoes.
- After baking, the feta should be soft and slightly golden. This means it’s ready!
- Mix everything together gently but well until it becomes a creamy consistency. Add some reserved pasta water if it’s too thick.
- Taste your dish before serving and adjust with more seasoning as needed.
By focusing on these simple steps, you’ll make the most of your ingredients and end up with a deliciously cheesy pasta dish every time!
Cheesy Baked Feta Veggie Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (about 2 1/2 cups) rigatoni or penne pasta
- 1 block (about 7 oz) feta cheese
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 small zucchini, sliced into thin rounds
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30-35 minutes to bake, plus the time it takes to cook your pasta. In total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes to whip up this cheesy delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that it’s ready to bake your pasta to perfection!
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grab a baking dish that measures around 9×13 inches. Place your block of feta cheese right in the center of the dish. This will be the star of the show!
3. Add Veggies Around the Feta:
Now, arrange the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced zucchini around the feta in the dish. Make sure everything is nicely spread out for even cooking.
4. Spice It Up:
Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over your veggies and cheese. Then, drizzle everything with olive oil. Finally, add the red chili flakes (if using), dried oregano, a pinch of salt, and some freshly ground black pepper.
5. Bake It:
Place the dish in the oven and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes. You want the feta to be soft and the tomatoes to burst, creating a beautiful sauce!
6. Cook the Pasta:
While your feta and veggies are baking, boil some salted water in a pot. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Remember to save about 1 cup of that pasta water before draining!
7. Mix It All Together:
Once the feta and veggies are out of the oven, use a fork to mash the feta and burst those juicy tomatoes. This creates a creamy sauce! Now, add the cooked pasta and most of the fresh basil into the dish. Toss everything together, adding some of that reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
8. Add Extra Flavor:
If you want an extra cheesy flavor, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and fold it gently into the mixture.
9. Season to Taste:
Take a moment to taste your pasta. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed—you want it to be just right!
10. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and the remaining basil on top. This adds a pop of color and flavor to your dish.
Now, dig in and enjoy this warm, creamy, and cheesy pasta dish that beautifully combines roasted veggies and tangy baked feta!
FAQ for Cheesy Baked Feta Veggie Pasta
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! While cherry tomatoes and zucchini are fantastic choices, you can swap them for any seasonal veggies you prefer like bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Feta Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute feta with goat cheese for a different flavor, or use cream cheese for a milder taste and creamy texture. Just keep in mind the flavor will change slightly!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply replace the pasta with gluten-free alternatives like chickpea pasta or zucchini noodles. Just make sure to adjust cooking times according to the type of pasta used for the best results.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or olive oil to keep it moist.
Enjoy making and savoring this delicious dish!
