Ultimate Baked Feta Cheese Pasta with More Vegetables – Delicious & Flavorful

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A bowl of creamy Baked Feta Cheese Pasta with More Vegetables.

The Baked Feta Pasta took the internet by storm, and for good reason—it’s creamy, tangy, and incredibly easy to make. But why stop at the classic version? This vegetable-packed Baked Feta Pasta takes the beloved dish to the next level, adding more color, texture, and nutrients while keeping the rich and cheesy goodness intact.

Roasting feta with juicy cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach creates a sauce that is bursting with flavor. Combined with your favorite pasta, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil, this dish is a comforting yet wholesome meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Why You’ll Love Baked Feta Cheese Pasta with More Vegetables

✅ More Vegetables, More Flavor – A mix of roasted and fresh vegetables adds texture and nutrients.
✅ Easy & One-Pan Wonder – The oven does most of the work, making this a low-effort, high-reward meal.
✅ Customizable – Swap in your favorite veggies or pasta type to make it your own.
✅ Creamy & Satisfying – The roasted feta turns into a rich, cheesy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.

Nutritional Benefits of This Veggie-Packed Pasta

🥬 Spinach & Zucchini – Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, plus fiber and antioxidants.
🍅 Cherry Tomatoes – A great source of lycopene, which promotes heart health.
🫑 Bell Peppers – High in vitamin C to boost immunity.
🍄 Mushrooms – Provide B vitamins and a meaty texture for extra depth of flavor.
🧀 Feta Cheese – Lower in fat than many other cheeses, offering a tangy, creamy element.

Ingredients for Baked Feta Pasta with More Vegetables

Main Ingredients

  • 8 oz pasta (penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
  • 1 block (8 oz) feta cheese
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • 1 zucchini (diced)
  • 1 bell pepper (sliced)
  • 1 cup mushrooms (sliced)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh basil, for garnish

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1/2 cup olives (for a Mediterranean twist)
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (for extra umami)
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (for crunch)

How to Make Baked Feta Pasta with More Vegetables

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Assemble the Veggies & Feta

  1. In a large baking dish, add the cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
  2. Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the dish.
  3. Drizzle olive oil over everything and sprinkle with oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Add the minced garlic and toss everything lightly, making sure the feta stays in place.

Step 3: Bake Until Bubbly

  1. Bake for 30 minutes, until the vegetables are soft and the feta is golden brown.
  2. Add the fresh spinach in the last 5 minutes of baking to wilt it slightly.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

  1. While the feta and vegetables roast, cook the pasta according to package instructions.
  2. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 5: Mix Everything Together

  1. Once the feta and veggies are done baking, mash the feta and tomatoes with a fork, creating a creamy sauce.
  2. Add the cooked pasta and toss to combine.
  3. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

  1. Sprinkle with fresh basil and a drizzle of extra olive oil.
  2. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, veggie-packed pasta dish!

Expert Tips for the Best Baked Feta Cheese Pasta with More Vegetables

✔️ Use Good-Quality Feta – A block of Greek feta in brine works best for maximum creaminess.
✔️ Roast at High Heat – This helps caramelize the vegetables, bringing out their natural sweetness.
✔️ Reserve Pasta Water – The starchy water helps bind the sauce and keeps it silky smooth.
✔️ Add Fresh Ingredients at the End – Basil and spinach add freshness and balance to the rich flavors.

Fun Variations of Baked Feta Cheese Pasta with More Vegetables

🥦 Roasted Broccoli & Cauliflower Version – Swap out zucchini and bell peppers for crunchy roasted broccoli.
🍗 Protein-Packed Version – Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
🌾 Gluten-Free Version – Use gluten-free pasta or swap pasta for zucchini noodles.
🍝 Spicy Arrabbiata Version – Add extra red pepper flakes and a spoonful of harissa for a spicy kick.
🍋 Lemon & Herb Version – Stir in lemon zest and fresh parsley for a bright, citrusy twist.

Best Side Dishes to Serve with Baked Feta Cheese Pasta with More Vegetables

This pasta is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with these side dishes:

🥗 Greek Salad – Cucumbers, olives, and feta with a tangy vinaigrette.
🥖 Garlic Bread – Crispy, buttery bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
🥒 Tzatziki Dip & Pita Chips – A refreshing yogurt dip to complement the rich feta flavors.
🍷 A Glass of Dry White Wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly with the tangy feta.

FAQs About Baked Feta Pasta

1. Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Substitute dairy-free feta cheese or use blended cashews with lemon juice for a creamy alternative.

2. What’s the best pasta shape for this dish?
Short pastas like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni work best because they hold onto the sauce better.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.

4. Can I freeze baked feta pasta?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze portions for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat with extra olive oil.

Conclusion

This Baked Feta Pasta with More Vegetables is a creamy, flavorful, and wholesome take on the viral classic. With its rich feta sauce, roasted veggies, and tender pasta, it’s a one-pan meal that’s easy, satisfying, and full of nutrients.

Now that you know how to make the ultimate veggie-packed feta pasta, grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy a dish that’s as nourishing as it is delicious! 🍅🧀🌿

The Nutritional Benefits of Feta Cheese

  • Anchor Text: “Learn about the health benefits of feta cheese and why it’s a great addition to your diet.”
  • 🔗 URL: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/is-feta-cheese-healthy
  • 📖 Purpose: Explains the nutritional profile of feta, including its protein content, healthy fats, and calcium benefits.

How to Choose the Best Pasta for Sauces

  • Anchor Text: “Find out which pasta shapes work best with creamy sauces like baked feta.”
  • 🔗 URL: https://www.seriouseats.com/pasta-shapes-guide
  • 📖 Purpose: Helps readers understand which pasta types hold sauce best, ensuring the perfect texture for their baked feta pasta.