Baked feta pasta has taken the internet by storm, and for good reason! This creamy, dreamy dish is surprisingly easy to make and delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. Combining the salty tang of baked feta with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash elevates this classic pasta recipe to new heights. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to create the perfect baked feta and butternut squash pasta, answering frequently asked questions along the way.
What is Baked Feta Pasta?
Baked feta pasta is a viral sensation originating from a simple yet genius concept: baking feta cheese in the oven with cherry tomatoes until it melts into a creamy sauce. This intensely flavorful base then gets tossed with cooked pasta for a quick, satisfying, and incredibly delicious meal. Adding butternut squash introduces a delightful autumnal twist, enhancing the sweetness and adding a beautiful color contrast.
How to Make Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients:
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 1 block (8 ounces) feta cheese
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, or farfalle work well)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the butternut squash cubes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
- Bake the Feta: While the squash roasts, arrange the cherry tomatoes around the block of feta cheese in an oven-safe dish. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake alongside the squash for the last 15-20 minutes of the squash's cooking time, or until the feta is melted and creamy.
- Cook the Pasta: Cook your pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Combine & Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish with the melted feta and roasted butternut squash. Gently toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water at a time until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the minced garlic. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (optional). Serve immediately.
What kind of pasta is best for baked feta pasta?
While you can use almost any pasta shape you like, short pasta shapes like rotini, penne, farfalle, or fusilli work particularly well for baked feta pasta. Their shapes help them to coat evenly in the creamy feta sauce. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti or linguine, as they can be more difficult to toss and coat properly.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian/vegan?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegetarian. To make it vegan, simply substitute the feta cheese with a vegan feta alternative. Many brands now offer delicious and creamy vegan feta options that work perfectly in this recipe.
How do I store leftover baked feta and butternut squash pasta?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of pasta water or milk if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Roasted broccoli, zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach would all be delicious additions to this recipe. Just be sure to add them to the baking sheet with the butternut squash and adjust the roasting time as needed.
Is baked feta pasta healthy?
Baked feta pasta, while delicious, is not necessarily a "health food." The feta cheese is relatively high in sodium and fat. However, the addition of butternut squash provides a good source of vitamins and fiber, balancing the dish somewhat. Moderation is key, as with any dish.
By following this guide and answering your frequently asked questions, you'll be well-equipped to create a stunning and flavorful baked feta and butternut squash pasta dish that will impress your friends and family. Enjoy!
