This Baked Feta Pasta is creamy, tangy, and oh-so-delicious! With warm feta cheese, chickpeas, and your favorite pasta, it’s a meal that feels fancy but is super easy to make.
I love how the feta melts into a dreamy sauce while the chickpeas add a nice bite. Perfect for impressing friends or just treating yourself after a long day—get ready for some yummy leftovers!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend cavatappi for its curly shape that holds the sauce well. Elbow macaroni is another great option. If you’re gluten-free, try chickpea pasta or rice pasta instead.
Feta Cheese: Block feta is perfect for this recipe as it melts nicely. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try using crumbled tofu marinated in lemon juice and salt.
Chickpeas: These add protein and texture. If you don’t have chickpeas on hand, white beans or lentils work well. Canned beans are super convenient!
Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweetness enhances the dish. If you have larger tomatoes, just chop them up. Sun-dried tomatoes can be used for a more intense flavor, but use less as they are more concentrated.
Breadcrumbs: Panko provides a great crunch. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, or even crushed crackers for a fun twist.
How Do You Bake Feta Without It Burning?
Baking feta is a simple process, but it’s important to watch the oven to prevent it from burning. Here are some tips:
- Keep the baking dish covered for the first 15 minutes to trap moisture, then uncover it to get that nice golden color.
- Check the feta after 20 minutes. It should be soft and starting to brown. If you see it browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly.
Stir the dish a bit after it comes out, breaking up the feta so it blends into a creamy sauce with the tomatoes and chickpeas, ensuring everything is nicely covered!
Baked Feta Pasta with Chickpeas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (225g) pasta (cavatappi or elbow macaroni)
For the Main Dish:
- 7 oz (200g) block of feta cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cooked chickpeas (canned, drained, and rinsed)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
For Seasoning and Topping:
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (such as basil, thyme, or rosemary)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to bake. Overall, you’re looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and satisfying dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready for your delicious dish!
2. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grab a baking dish and place the block of feta cheese right in the center. Then, nestle the halved cherry tomatoes and drained chickpeas around the feta. It should look colorful and inviting!
3. Drizzle and Season:
Now, drizzle the olive oil all over the feta, tomatoes, chickpeas, and minced garlic. Season everything with red pepper flakes (if using), oregano, salt, and pepper to bring out all those flavors.
4. Add the Crunch:
To make it extra delicious, toss the panko breadcrumbs with a little olive oil and sprinkle them on top. This will give your dish a lovely crunchy texture.
5. Bake It Up!
Pop the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You want the feta to be soft and starting to brown, while the tomatoes get a nice roasted look.
6. Cook the Pasta:
While your feta and veggies are baking, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining!
7. Combine It All:
When your baking dish is ready, take it out of the oven and give everything a good stir. Break up the feta to create that lovely creamy sauce that will coat the chickpeas and tomatoes beautifully.
8. Mix in the Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta directly into the baking dish and toss everything together. If it seems a bit thick, you can add a splash of that reserved pasta water to help loosen it up.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle fresh herbs on top and add more black pepper if you like. Serve warm and enjoy this fabulous dish filled with flavors and textures!
This cozy baked feta pasta dish beautifully combines creamy, tangy feta with roasted tomatoes and hearty chickpeas for a wonderfully filling meal. It’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While cavatappi and elbow macaroni are great choices, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta can work well. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type you choose!
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you could use a marinated tofu block for a dairy-free option or goat cheese for a different flavor. Crumbled cheese will work too; just note that the texture and taste will vary slightly.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or oven until heated through. You might want to add a splash of olive oil or water to keep it moist!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Yes! This dish is very versatile. Feel free to toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini before baking. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly with the other ingredients!
