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Creamy One-Pan Baked Feta Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spinach

one-pan baked feta pasta - featured image

A quick and easy one-pan baked feta pasta with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach that creates a creamy, indulgent sauce perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 8 oz block of feta cheese
  • 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil
  • 3 cups fresh baby spinach, loosely packed
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or oregano leaves, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Arrange the feta block in the center of a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Surround it with halved cherry tomatoes and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil and sprinkle minced garlic evenly over everything. Add a pinch of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
  3. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes until the feta softens and turns golden around the edges and the tomatoes blister.
  4. While the feta and tomatoes bake, bring the broth to a simmer in a saucepan.
  5. Remove the skillet from the oven and mash the softened feta and tomatoes together with a wooden spoon or spatula to create a creamy sauce.
  6. Add the dry pasta directly into the pan along with the simmering broth. Stir well to combine, ensuring the pasta is submerged.
  7. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking and absorption of the sauce.
  8. Remove the pan from the oven and stir in the fresh baby spinach to wilt it with residual heat.
  9. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or oregano and drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Stir and serve immediately.

Notes

Use a block of feta cheese rather than crumbled for a creamier sauce. Stir pasta halfway through baking to prevent sticking. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm water or broth. For dairy-free, substitute feta with firm tofu feta-style cheese and use vegetable broth.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked feta pasta, one-pan pasta, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach pasta, creamy pasta, easy dinner, weeknight meal