Creamy Feta & Tomato Pasta Bake

Ingredients

• 8 ounces feta cheese (one block)
• 2 pints cherry tomatoes
• 3 garlic cloves, roughly chopped or smashed
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil (divided)
• 8 ounces pasta (fusilli, penne, or your favorite shape)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional, if you like a little heat)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven
   • Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Assemble in a Baking Dish
   • Place the block of feta in the center of a baking dish.
   • Surround it with cherry tomatoes and garlic.
   • Drizzle about half of the olive oil over everything.
   • Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
3. Roast to Perfection
   • Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the tomatoes burst and the feta is lightly golden on top.
4. Cook the Pasta
   • While the feta and tomatoes roast, boil your pasta according to package instructions.
   • Reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining.
5. Combine and Stir
   • Remove the baking dish from the oven.
   • Use a fork or spoon to mash the feta and tomatoes into a creamy sauce.
   • Stir in the drained pasta and a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed.
   • Drizzle in the remaining olive oil for extra richness.
   • Taste and adjust seasonings as you like.
6. Serve
   • Plate immediately while it’s hot, and enjoy.

Optional Add-Ons

• Extra Protein: Stir in shredded chicken, grilled shrimp, or crispy chickpeas.
• Additional Veggies: Mix in roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Herb Finish: Sprinkle fresh basil, parsley, or oregano on top.

Approximate Nutrition Per Serving (4 Servings Total)

• Calories: ~580
• Protein: ~14 g
• Carbohydrates: ~47 g
• Fat: ~37 g