Ingredients
Scale
- 1 block (7-8 oz) Feta cheese (store brand or budget-friendly)
- 2 pints (approx. 20 oz) Cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1/2 cup Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 lb Dried pasta (Cavatappi, Penne, or Rotini work best)
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil (optional, or use dried for budget)
- Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a medium-to-large baking dish. Place the block of feta cheese right in the center of the dish. Pour the cherry tomatoes all around the cheese. Drizzle the olive oil over the tomatoes and the feta. Sprinkle the minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) over everything. Give the tomatoes a quick toss with a spoon to ensure they are coated in oil, but keep the feta block centered.
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. You are looking for the cherry tomatoes to burst and release their juices, and for the top of the feta cheese to turn a light golden brown. While the feta and tomatoes roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil on the stove. Cook your pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente. Important: Reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining the noodles.
- Once the timer goes off, remove the baking dish from the oven. Using a fork or a sturdy spoon, immediately smash the softened feta cheese and the roasted tomatoes. Stir them together vigorously until they emulsify into a rich, creamy orange sauce. The feta should melt completely into the tomato juices and olive oil. If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of your reserved pasta water and stir until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta directly into the baking dish with the sauce. Toss everything together until every noodle is perfectly coated in the creamy feta mixture. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. If you have fresh basil, tear it up and stir it in at the very end. Serve immediately while it is hot and steaming. This dish is rich enough that you do not even need extra parmesan on top!
- Cook Time: 40 minutes