Name: Easy Baked Feta and Veggie Pasta for a Quick Weeknight Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz (225 g) pasta (penne or fusilli); 1 block (200 g) feta cheese; 1 pint cherry tomatoes; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

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🍝✨ Easy Baked Feta and Veggie Pasta for a Quick Weeknight Dinner

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s both flavorful and effortless, this baked feta pasta recipe is your perfect solution. Bursting with creamy feta, roasted vegetables, and al dente pasta, it brings the taste of a gourmet meal to your dinner table in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a busy parent or a college student, this veggie pasta dinner packs a punch of flavor while keeping things simple. The best part? It’s a true one-pan wonder that requires minimal cleanup!

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in 30 minutes: Perfect for a last-minute weeknight meal.

Healthy and colorful: Loaded with fresh vegetables for a nutritious twist.
One-pot simplicity: Less dishes, more eating!
Versatile: Easily adaptable with your favorite seasonal veggies or protein.

3. Ingredient Notes

High-quality ingredients make all the difference in this veggie pasta dinner. Choose a block of authentic feta cheese, preferably from a Greek brand, for that rich, tangy flavor. Cherry tomatoes burst with juicy sweetness during roasting, while bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach can be swapped based on your preference. For pasta, a good-quality pasta maker can help you craft fresh, perfectly shaped noodles if you’re feeling ambitious. Using extra virgin olive oil and fresh herbs like basil or oregano elevates the dish further, creating a fragrant, aromatic experience.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

Investing in the right kitchen tools simplifies cooking and enhances results. For this recipe, I recommend the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer for perfectly roasted vegetables with ease. A durable Ninja 12-in-1 Smart Double Oven helps with baking and reheating leftovers. To create fresh pasta at home, the Pasta Maker will become an instant favorite in your kitchen arsenal. And of course, a good set of KitchenAid Stand Mixer can assist in dough kneading or preparing any additional sauces.

5. How to Make Easy Baked Feta and Veggie Pasta

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, chop your vegetables into bite-sized pieces – think colorful bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or spinach. Spread them out on a baking sheet, drizzle generously with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Roast for about 20 minutes until the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized—your kitchen will fill with aromatic, roasted vegetable scents.

Combining the Flavors

Once roasted, transfer the vegetables into a large baking dish or skillet. Nestle a block of feta cheese in the center. Roast together for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the feta to soften and some lovely golden edges to develop.

Finishing Touch

Remove from the oven and gently mix the roasted vegetables and feta. Add cooked pasta directly into the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the noodles with the creamy feta sauce. Finish with fresh basil or oregano for an aromatic flourish. Serve hot, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.

6. Expert Tips for Success

Don’t overcook the feta: Roasting helps it melt smoothly, but avoid letting it turn brown or dry out.
Use high-quality olive oil: It adds richness and depth to the dish.

Season well: Don’t be shy with herbs and spices—they boost flavor dramatically.
Save some pasta water: Adding a splash can help loosen the sauce and cling to noodles beautifully.

7. Variations & Substitutions

For a vegan version, replace feta with vegan cheese or mashed roasted chickpeas. Swap out vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have at home. Prefer gluten-free? Use your favorite gluten-free pasta or spiralized vegetables for a low-carb alternative. Adding cooked chicken or shrimp can turn this into a hearty protein-packed meal, making it even more satisfying.

8. Storage & Reheating

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or the Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of reserved pasta water to keep it moist. The dish is best enjoyed fresh, so I recommend making just enough for one sitting if possible.

9. FAQ

Can I make baked feta pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the roasted vegetables and feta in advance. Simply reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve for a quick meal.

What pasta shape works best for this recipe?

Shorter pasta like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni tend to work well, but feel free to experiment with your favorites. Fresh pasta can add a special touch!

Is baked feta pasta spicy?

Not inherently, but you can spice it up by adding red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers during roasting.

Can I add protein to this veggie pasta dinner?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu make excellent additions for extra flavor and satiety.

10. Conclusion

In just about 30 minutes, you can enjoy this flavorful, nutritious baked feta and veggie pasta—an ideal easy pasta recipe that appeals to both busy weeknights and casual dinners. Its combination of creamy feta, roasted vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta makes every bite a delight. Give it a try and transform your weeknight dinners into something special!

Easy Baked Feta and Veggie Pasta for a Quick Weeknight Dinner