Baked Feta & Roasted Olive Pasta Recipe

If you’re craving a pasta dish that feels both elegant and comforting, you absolutely must try this Baked Feta & Roasted Olive Pasta. It’s a brilliant fusion of creamy baked feta, sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, and briny Kalamata olives that come together in a luscious, velvety sauce. This dish is effortless yet bursting with flavor, making it one of those recipes you’ll want to keep in your weeknight rotation or bring out when you want to impress with minimal fuss. The combination of textures and colors not only pleases the palate but also makes your dinner table look stunning.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting this delightful Baked Feta & Roasted Olive Pasta is all about simple ingredients that elevate each other beautifully. Each element plays an essential role, from the creamy feta that melts into the pasta to the olives that add a perfect pop of salty tang. Let’s look at what you’ll need:

• Penne or fusilli pasta (250 g): Choose your favorite shape to capture that irresistible sauce.
• Feta cheese (200 g block): The star ingredient that bakes creamy and slightly golden on top.
• Cherry tomatoes (1 cup): Roasted until bursting with sweetness and rich flavor.
• Kalamata olives (½ cup, pitted and halved): Adds a briny, savory depth that balances the creaminess.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp): Essential for roasting and drizzling, enhancing richness.
• Chili flakes (½ tsp, optional): Adds a subtle kick if you like a touch of heat.
• Salt and black pepper: Season to taste to bring all flavors together.
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish): Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbal finish.
• Extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling): Adds a glossy, flavorful touch right before serving.

How to Make Baked Feta & Roasted Olive Pasta

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). In a spacious baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes, halved Kalamata olives, minced garlic, olive oil, chili flakes if using, along with salt and black pepper. Nestle the block of feta cheese right in the center of this vibrant medley. This arrangement ensures the feta gently roasts surrounded by juicy tomatoes and savory olives, creating a symphony of flavors.

Step 2: Bake the Feta and Tomatoes

Bake everything uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tomatoes are roasted and tender, releasing their juices, and the feta turns soft and slightly golden on top. This slow roasting melds the flavors so beautifully, transforming simple ingredients into a creamy, tangy sauce base for your pasta.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While your feta and tomatoes are roasting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne or fusilli according to the package instructions, until it reaches al dente perfection. Reserve half a cup of the pasta water before draining — this starchy liquid is key to helping your sauce cling gorgeously to every noodle.

Step 4: Combine and Mix

Once baked, take the dish out of the oven and use a spoon to mash the feta and roasted tomatoes together gently, blending everything into a creamy, luscious sauce. Toss in your drained pasta, adding the reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a smooth, silky consistency. This step is where the magic happens, turning simple ingredients into a cohesive, unforgettable dish.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

To finish, sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the pasta for a burst of color and freshness. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds a glossy sheen and enhances the rich flavors. Serve immediately while it’s warm and inviting, perfect for sharing or savoring solo.

How to Serve Baked Feta & Roasted Olive Pasta

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like basil or parsley are ideal garnishes, brightening the dish with their vibrant green color and fresh aroma. A final drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil not only adds flavor but gives the pasta a beautifully silky texture that makes every bite feel indulgent.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh salads such as a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy cucumber and red onion salad. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables or crusty garlic bread are fantastic companions that complement the creamy, tangy sauce without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, serve the pasta directly from the baking dish family-style, letting everyone dive into the rustic charm. Alternatively, plate individual portions with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for crunch or a few extra olives artistically arranged on top. If you want to impress guests, offering a small side of lemon wedges can enliven the dish even further.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Baked Feta & Roasted Olive Pasta keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. As the flavors meld overnight, it can even taste better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or a quick lunch.

Freezing

While fresh is always best with this dish, you can freeze the pasta in portions for up to one month. Make sure it’s cooled completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags. Keep in mind the texture of the feta might change slightly after freezing, but the flavors will remain delicious.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to distribute heat evenly. Reheating slowly helps maintain the creamy texture without drying out the feta or pasta.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses instead of feta?

Feta is key for the unique creamy yet tangy flavor in this recipe, but if you’re in a pinch, halloumi or ricotta can offer a different texture and mild taste. Keep in mind, the classic charm of Baked Feta & Roasted Olive Pasta comes from that signature feta bite.

What type of pasta works best?

This recipe is versatile, but shapes like penne or fusilli hold the sauce beautifully thanks to their ridges and hollow centers. You could also try rigatoni or even rotini for a similar effect.

Can I make this vegan?

Definitely! Swap the feta for a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well, and use a bit more olive oil for richness. Roasted tomatoes and olives still provide plenty of flavor, so the dish remains satisfying.

Is this dish spicy?

The recipe includes chili flakes as optional, so you can control the heat level. If you prefer no spice, simply leave them out — the pasta will still be deliciously flavorful without any kick.

How can I add more veggies?

Feel free to toss in extra vegetables like roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach when baking the tomatoes and feta. They add color, nutrition, and depth while marrying perfectly with the core ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Feta & Roasted Olive Pasta is a must-try for anyone who loves a dish that feels both special and effortlessly homemade. Its rich, creamy textures combined with fresh, vibrant flavors are downright addictive. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy weeknight or impressing friends at a casual dinner, the simplicity and deliciousness make it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t hesitate — get in your kitchen and create this lovely pasta experience today!