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. Combining the salty tang of baked feta with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash elevates this popular recipe to a whole new level. This guide will walk you through creating the perfect baked feta and butternut squash pasta, answering common questions along the way.
What is Baked Feta Pasta?
Baked feta pasta is a viral sensation built around a simple yet genius concept: baking feta cheese until soft and creamy, then tossing it with pasta and other ingredients for a quick, flavorful meal. The baking process transforms the feta, creating a rich, salty sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. Adding butternut squash introduces a lovely sweetness and vibrant color, enhancing both the taste and visual appeal.
How do you make Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta?
This recipe is incredibly adaptable, but here's a basic outline to get you started:
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 fusilli work well)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (optional, such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roast the butternut squash: Toss the cubed squash with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
- Bake the feta: While the squash roasts, place the block of feta in a small oven-safe dish. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and minced garlic. Bake alongside the squash for the last 15-20 minutes, or until the feta is soft and creamy.
- Cook the pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- Combine everything: Add the roasted butternut squash and cherry tomatoes to the baking dish with the feta. Crumble the feta with a spoon. Add the cooked pasta and toss gently to combine. If the mixture is too dry, add a little pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs (if using) and serve immediately.
What kind of pasta is best for Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta?
Almost any pasta shape will work well! However, shorter pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or fusilli are generally preferred because they hold the creamy feta sauce better than long, thin noodles. Consider the shape that best complements the texture and flavors of your ingredients.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian/vegan?
Vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian as written.
Vegan: To make this vegan, you'll need to substitute the feta cheese with a vegan feta alternative. Many brands offer delicious vegan feta that melts and creams similarly to traditional feta. You can also experiment with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
What other vegetables can I add to Baked Feta and Butternut Squash Pasta?
Feel free to get creative! Adding other roasted vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or bell peppers would complement the butternut squash and feta beautifully. Spinach or kale could be added at the end for extra nutrients and a pop of color.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the roasting squash or a dash of your favorite hot sauce at the end will easily increase the heat. A sprinkle of chili powder would also work well.
How to store leftovers?
Store leftover baked feta and butternut squash pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.
This baked feta and butternut squash pasta recipe is a delicious and easy weeknight meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. The versatility allows for endless customization to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy!
