I want to tell you about a dish that quickly became one of my go-to weeknight meals: Baked Feta Pasta with Spinach. I first stumbled on a simple roasted feta pasta that had everyone talking online, but when I added fresh spinach, it transformed into something even more comforting and satisfying. This spinach and feta pasta dish fits right into my cooking routine because it’s both easy and impressive. It’s the kind of recipe you feel great about serving but doesn’t keep you stuck in the kitchen for hours.
What I love most about Baked Feta Pasta with Spinach is how quickly it comes together without any fancy techniques. It’s one of those oven-baked feta recipes where the oven does most of the work, leaving behind a creamy feta pasta filling the kitchen with a cozy aroma. The spinach adds a fresh, slightly earthy layer that balances the tangy cheese and roasted tomatoes.
I’ve made this baked feta pasta with spinach again and again, tweaking it a little each time—sometimes adding lemon zest, other times tossing in red pepper flakes for a bit of kick. It’s become a family favorite that feels just right whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual dinner with friends. If you want a dish that’s approachable, comforting, and full of flavor, I encourage you to give this spinach pasta bake a try. It’s reliable, easy to follow, and bound to bring a little joy to your table. And if you love this recipe, you might enjoy a tasty spinach dip or my garlic butter beef bites that pair perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes.
What You’ll Need for This Baked Feta Pasta with Spinach:
- 8 ounces penne pasta (or any short pasta you have on hand) Don’t have penne? Fusilli or rigatoni work well in this baked feta pasta with spinach too.
- 1 block (7 ounces) feta cheese A classic oven-baked feta recipe star. You can find good-quality feta at most grocery stores. Look for one in brine for best flavor and texture.
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes Grape tomatoes work fine as a practical substitute if that’s what’s available.
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves If fresh isn’t handy, frozen spinach can be used—just thaw and drain well before adding.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Garlic powder could work in a pinch, but fresh really makes a difference here.
- ¼ cup olive oil This keeps the dish silky and adds richness.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) For a gentle heat that wakes up the flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional) This gives a lovely pop of color and fresh flavor.
This baked feta pasta with spinach keeps ingredients simple because good cooking should be accessible. It’s also quite budget-friendly since it uses pantry staples and fresh produce you can find easily. Quick prep tip: while the pasta boils, you can get the tomatoes and feta ready for baking to save time. Store your feta wrapped tightly in the fridge to maintain its creaminess for days after you make this dish. I always include a little extra garlic because it adds such a warm depth to this spinach and feta pasta dish.
How to Make This Baked Feta Pasta with Spinach:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the start of our oven-baked feta recipe magic.
- Prepare the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook your penne pasta just shy of al dente—about 1-2 minutes less than package instructions. It will finish cooking in the oven with the sauce.
- Arrange tomatoes and feta. In a baking dish, toss the cherry tomatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Nestle the block of feta cheese right in the center. This roasted feta pasta step is where those bright, juicy tomatoes will soften and mingle with the creamy cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing with the tomatoes bursting and the feta softening to a luscious spread.
- Add spinach and pasta. Once the feta and tomatoes are out of the oven, toss in your fresh spinach and cooked pasta. The residual heat will wilt the spinach gently and soften the feta further.
- Mix everything together. Stir until the feta is creamy and coats the pasta and spinach beautifully. If your baked feta pasta with spinach looks a little chunky, don’t worry—just mix it well and it’ll come together.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil if you like. This step where patience pays off with your baked feta pasta with spinach—the flavors meld wonderfully when you let it sit for a minute or two after baking.
From start to finish, this dish takes about 40 minutes, including prep and baking. While it’s in the oven, you can tidy up your kitchen or set the table to save time. A helpful shortcut is to prep your garlic ahead or use pre-minced garlic.
How do you know when it’s done? The feta should be soft and golden in spots, and the tomatoes will have burst to create a lovely sauce. If you want more sauce, a splash of pasta water or olive oil works perfectly.
Serving Your Baked Feta Pasta with Spinach:
This baked feta pasta with spinach truly shines when served simply. I like to keep sides light so the pasta remains the star. A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables pair wonderfully to balance the creamy feta pasta.
For a casual dinner with friends, I love setting this spinach pasta bake on the table alongside crusty bread—it’s perfect for mopping up the sauce. It also makes a satisfying lunch when reheated. For a cozy night in, serving it with a glass of white wine is just right.
Presentation-wise, a sprig of fresh basil or a drizzle of olive oil on top brightens the dish visually and flavor-wise. If you have leftovers, try adding them to a simple omelet or tossing with fresh arugula for a quick salad.
I’ve also experimented with seasonal variations—sometimes swapping out spinach for kale or stirring in sun-dried tomatoes for a deeper flavor. Each version brings something new to this roasted feta pasta favorite.
Friends and family always ask for this baked feta pasta with spinach at potlucks or casual dinners. It’s one of those meals that feels like a hug on a plate—creamy, comforting, and just a little unexpected with the spinach.
Common Questions About This Baked Feta Pasta with Spinach:
Can I make parts of this baked feta pasta with spinach ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the tomatoes and garlic mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Cook the pasta fresh for best texture and add the spinach just before serving.
What’s a good substitute for feta cheese in this spinach and feta pasta dish?
Goat cheese is a nice alternative for a similar tangy creaminess. If you want a milder cheese, ricotta can work but it won’t roast the same way.
Can I adjust this baked feta pasta with spinach for more or fewer people?
Absolutely! Double or halve the ingredients as needed. Just keep in mind the baking dish size so everything roasts evenly.
Is fresh spinach essential, or can I use frozen?
Fresh spinach is best for texture and flavor, but frozen works if thawed and drained. Just squeeze out excess water before mixing in.
How do I store leftovers from this baked feta pasta with spinach?
Cool it completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the creamy sauce.
Can I add protein to this baked feta pasta with spinach?
Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp are great additions that complement the flavors nicely.
Where did this baked feta pasta with spinach recipe come from?
The original baked feta pasta rose to fame on TikTok. I love how home cooks have adapted it with spinach and other fresh ingredients. For a fun look at the trend, check out the TikTok Baked Feta Pasta – Cooking Classy post.
Ready for more ideas? This recipe calls to mind the rich flavors of a savory spinach dip or a hearty steak with peppercorn sauce that warms you up after a meal like this. Check out my steak with peppercorn sauce recipe for a perfect complement.
Final Thoughts on This Baked Feta Pasta with Spinach:
This baked feta pasta with spinach holds a special spot in my recipe collection because it’s both reliable and satisfying. It’s one of those dishes I keep coming back to when I want dinner that feels homemade and a little special without a ton of fuss.
My Top Tips for This Baked Feta Pasta with Spinach:
- Don’t overcook the pasta before baking; it finishes perfectly in the oven.
- Use a good-quality feta packed in brine for creamy results.
- Toss the spinach in at the last minute to keep it bright and tender.
Three delicious variations I enjoy include lemon zest for a fresh twist, adding sun-dried tomatoes for depth, or mixing in olives for salty bursts. For more inspiration on variations, see the Baked Feta Pasta with Spinach – SueBee Homemaker and the Baked Feta Pasta with Spinach & Lemon – SIMPLY BEAUTIFUL EATING.
The version with red pepper flakes usually gets requested most often because it adds just the right amount of warmth without overpowering the creamy feta.
I hope you make this recipe your own and find the same joy I have in sharing it. If you like dishes that are easy, tasty, and a little bit different, this baked feta pasta with spinach is a winner. Give it a try—you can’t go wrong with creamy feta pasta and fresh spinach in your kitchen!
If you want to explore more, don’t miss the spinach dip recipe or my garlic butter beef bites with creamy mashed potatoes for other comforting meals. For a special dinner, the steak with peppercorn sauce might just be what you’re looking for.
Baked Feta Pasta with Spinach
This creamy baked feta pasta with fresh spinach is a flavorful and easy-to-make Italian-inspired dish perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 200g pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 200g block of feta cheese
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place cherry tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper in a baking dish; toss to combine.
- Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the tomatoes.
- Bake uncovered for 30 minutes until tomatoes burst and feta is soft.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and reserve some pasta water.
- Remove baking dish from oven and stir to combine feta and tomatoes into a creamy sauce.
- Add fresh spinach to the sauce and stir until wilted.
- Toss the cooked pasta with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
For extra protein, add grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms. Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.