Baked Feta Pasta with Chickpeas is a creamy, dreamy dish that’s super easy to make. It features baked feta cheese and hearty chickpeas, mixed with your favorite pasta and fresh veggies.
This recipe is so simple, even your cat might want to try it! I love how the cheesy goodness blends into the pasta for a delightful taste. Perfect for a quick dinner that feels special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I used rigatoni, but any pasta like penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta works well. Just cook it al dente for the best texture!
Feta Cheese: Traditional Greek feta is best, but you can try goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor. Just note that ricotta won’t melt the same way.
Cherry Tomatoes: If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, grape tomatoes work too! You could also use canned diced tomatoes in a pinch, but fresh tomatoes give that lovely burst of flavor.
Chickpeas: If you’re not a fan of chickpeas, white beans or even roasted vegetables are great substitutes. They add a nice texture and heartiness to the dish!
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the amount based on your spice preference. For a milder version, omit them or use paprika for gentle heat.
What’s the Best Way to Make a Creamy Sauce from Baked Feta?
The magic happens when you mash the feta, tomatoes, and chickpeas! After baking, the feta gets beautifully soft. Follow these steps:
- Remove the baking dish from the oven. Use a fork to mash the feta with the burst tomatoes and chickpeas. Mix until you have a creamy texture.
- When mixing, it’s okay if the tomatoes break up a bit; their juices will create part of your sauce!
- If the sauce is too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until you get your desired creaminess.
With these tips, you’ll create a deliciously creamy sauce that ties all the ingredients together perfectly!
Baked Feta Pasta with Chickpeas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Dish:
- 12 oz rigatoni or similar pasta
- 1 block (about 7 oz) feta cheese
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 tbsp lemon juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of baking time, so you’ll be enjoying your delicious meal in about 40 minutes! It’s quick and perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get the Oven Ready:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your ingredients bake evenly and get that lovely roasted flavor.
2. Assemble in a Baking Dish:
Take a baking dish and place the block of feta cheese right in the center. Then, surround it with the cherry tomatoes and drained chickpeas. It’s a colorful and inviting sight!
3. Season the Dish:
Next, drizzle olive oil all over the feta, tomatoes, and chickpeas. Add the minced garlic, sprinkle red pepper flakes, and season with salt and black pepper. Give it a gentle shake to coat everything evenly.
4. Bake to Perfection:
Pop the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the tomatoes burst and the feta is soft and slightly golden on top. The aroma will fill your kitchen!
5. Cook the Pasta:
While the feta and veggies are baking, cook the rigatoni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Don’t forget to reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta.
6. Mash It Up:
Once the baking time is up, take the dish out of the oven. Use a fork or spoon to mash together the softened feta, burst tomatoes, and chickpeas. Mix until it creates a creamy sauce that’s full of flavor.
7. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta to the baking dish and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired creaminess.
8. Brighten It Up:
If you like, you can squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the pasta for an extra burst of flavor. Mix it well and look at that beautiful dish!
9. Garnish and Serve:
Just before serving, sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy every creamy, hearty bite of your Baked Feta Pasta with Chickpeas!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While feta gives a unique flavor, you can substitute with goat cheese for a tangy taste or even ricotta for a creamier texture. Just note that ricotta won’t melt in the same way as feta.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, simply replace the feta with a plant-based feta or cashew cream. You can also omit the cheese altogether and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to help revive the creamy sauce.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! This dish is versatile. You can add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition. Just roast them alongside the tomatoes and chickpeas for a delicious flavor boost.
