Simple Baked Feta and Veggie Pasta for Easy Weeknight Dinner

© Original Recipe By The Daily Garnish ©

🍝✨ Simple Baked Feta and Veggie Pasta for Easy Weeknight Dinner

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a dish that combines melty, savory feta with tender roasted vegetables, then this baked feta pasta recipe is your new best friend. It’s a deliciously creamy, veggie-packed pasta that comes together with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights. The magic lies in the way the feta cheese melts into the roasted cherry tomatoes and vegetables, creating a rich, flavorful sauce right in the oven. With vibrant flavors and a beautiful presentation, this veggie pasta dish will quickly become a household favorite.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 30 minutes — perfect for quick weeknight dinners
• One-pan convenience — fewer dishes to wash!
• Healthy and vegetarian — packed with colorful vegetables and good fats
• Customizable — swap in your favorite veggies or cheeses

3. Ingredient Notes

The key ingredients in this easy pasta recipes are simple but impactful. High-quality feta cheese, preferably brined and creamy, ensures that melting into the roasted tomatoes results in a luscious sauce. Cherry tomatoes burst with sweet, tangy flavor when roasted, creating a beautiful, aromatic base. For vegetables, colorful bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach add texture and nutrients. To elevate the flavors, use fresh garlic and herbs like basil or oregano — supermarket herbs work well, but fresh from your garden makes a difference.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

Investing in the right tools can streamline your cooking process. Consider this Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer for perfectly roasted veggies with a crispy exterior, or the T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set for easy sautéing and boiling pasta. These tools will help you achieve professional results effortlessly, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

5. How to Make Simple Baked Feta and Veggie Pasta

Preparation & Roasting

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a block of feta cheese in the center of a baking dish or tray, surrounded by halved cherry tomatoes, sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and garlic cloves. Drizzle everything with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, until the tomatoes burst and feta turns golden and slightly creamy.

Cooking the Pasta & Combining

While the veggies roast, cook your pasta (preferably using the Philips 7000 Series Pasta Maker) in salted boiling water until al dente. Once the vegetables are roasted, gently mash the feta and tomatoes together in the dish to form a sauce. Toss the cooked pasta directly into the roasted veggie mixture, stirring to coat every strand in velvety feta goodness. Add fresh basil or oregano for aromatic brightness.

6. Expert Tips for Success

• Use high-quality feta—it melts better and adds authentic flavor.
• Roast the vegetables well— they develop sweetness and deep flavor, crucial for a rich sauce.
• Reserve some pasta water—a splash can help loosen the sauce if it gets too thick.
• Don’t overcook the pasta — aim for al dente to prevent mushiness when mixing.
• Finish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil for added aroma and flavor.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you prefer vegan options, substitute feta with plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast. For gluten-free pasta, use your favorite gluten-free noodles. Vegetables can be swapped with eggplant, mushrooms, or kale—whatever’s in season or your pantry. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or sprinkle with toasted pine nuts for extra crunch.

8. Storage & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of olive oil or reserved pasta water to refresh the sauce. This bread pudding shows how simple refrigeration can make leftovers just as delicious.

9. FAQ

Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, simply swap out the feta with vegan cheese or nutritional yeast, and use vegetable broth instead of any cheese sauce ingredients for added flavor.

Q: What pasta is best for baked feta pasta?

Short pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work best—they hold sauce and cheese well, ensuring each bite is flavorful. But feel free to experiment with your favorites!

Q: How do I make the sauce creamy without overcooking the feta?

Roast everything until the feta is just golden and the tomatoes have burst. Gently mash the feta and roasted tomatoes together for a smooth, creamy sauce without the need for additional dairy.

Q: Can I add protein to this veggie pasta dish?

Certainly! Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for a hearty twist. For a quick boost, check out these high-protein chicken recipes to pair with your pasta.

10. Conclusion

This simple baked feta and veggie pasta is a celebration of fresh flavors and minimal effort. It’s versatile, healthy, and incredibly satisfying—ideal for anyone seeking quick and delicious dinner ideas. With just a few ingredients and a handful of steps, you’ll enjoy a velvety, aromatic dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Give it a try tonight and impress your family or guests with this unbeatable veggie pasta dish!

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