Why I Love This Recipe
This Baked Feta Pasta has become a sensation for a reason – it’s absolutely delicious, easy, and requires minimal prep and effort. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting and flavorful. Adding a bit of fresh spinach and adapting it to the air fryer makes it even more convenient while keeping the original charm of the dish. The creamy feta and bursting tomatoes create a dreamy sauce, and the pasta pulls it all together for a hearty, satisfying meal. If you’re looking for a dish that’s quick, tasty, and a little healthier, this one’s for you!
Air Fryer Baked Feta Pasta with Spinach
Yields: 2 Servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- 8 oz block feta cheese
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 9 oz pasta of choice (penne, fusilli, spaghetti, etc.)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 handful fresh baby spinach
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil
Directions
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. - Prepare the Tomato and Feta Mix:
In an 8-inch baking dish (or another oven-safe dish that fits in your air fryer), toss the cherry tomatoes with ¾ of the olive oil. Place the feta cheese block in the center and drizzle the remaining olive oil over the top. Sprinkle with dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. - Air Fry:
Place the baking dish in the air fryer basket and cook for about 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes. The tomatoes should burst and soften, and the feta should turn golden brown on top. - Cook the Pasta:
While the feta and tomatoes cook, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package directions. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of pasta water. Drain the pasta and set it aside. - Make the Creamy Sauce:
Once the feta and tomato mixture is done, remove it from the air fryer and stir in the minced garlic. Use a spoon or fork to break up the feta and mix everything together into a creamy sauce. - Combine and Toss:
Add the cooked pasta to the feta and tomato sauce. Stir in the fresh spinach and chopped basil. Add some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. - Serve and Enjoy:
Give everything a final stir, and serve hot. This dish is perfect on its own, but you can also add extra cheese or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
Tips & Tricks
- Air Fryer Temperature: If your air fryer runs hotter or cooler than others, keep an eye on the feta and tomatoes. You want the tomatoes to burst and the feta to turn golden brown, so adjust cooking time as necessary.
- Pasta Water: Don’t forget to save some pasta water! The starchy water helps to loosen the sauce and creates a silky texture when combined with the feta and tomatoes.
- Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts beautifully in the sauce, but if you prefer a heartier vegetable, try adding kale or arugula for a different flavor profile.
- Customizing the Dish: You can easily make this dish your own! Try adding olives, artichokes, or even a few sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
Notes
- Feta Type: Make sure you use a block of feta cheese rather than crumbled feta. The block melts beautifully into a creamy sauce, whereas crumbled feta won’t provide the same texture.
- Pasta Variations: This recipe works with any pasta you love. Penne, fusilli, rigatoni, or spaghetti all work great!
- Garlic and Herbs: Garlic adds a wonderful flavor to the sauce. You can also experiment with fresh thyme or oregano for additional herb notes.
- Air Fryer Models: Air fryer cooking times can vary depending on the model. If you find that the tomatoes or feta need more time, simply continue cooking and check in 5-minute intervals.
Storage
- Refrigeration: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta might absorb some of the sauce, but it will still be delicious when reheated.
- Freezing: This recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze the pasta for up to 1 month. When ready to reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish without an air fryer?
Yes! You can bake the feta and tomatoes in a regular oven at 370°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes or until the tomatoes burst and the feta browns. Then, follow the rest of the instructions as written.
2. Can I use non-dairy feta or cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re following a dairy-free or vegan diet, try using plant-based feta or vegan cream cheese. Just make sure to check the consistency, as non-dairy cheeses may behave a little differently during cooking.
3. Can I add meat to this recipe?
Yes! To make this a heartier meal, you can add grilled chicken, sausage, or even bacon for some extra protein.
4. What if I don’t have fresh basil or spinach?
You can use frozen spinach (just thaw and squeeze out the excess water) or substitute with another green like arugula or kale. For the basil, dried basil works in a pinch, though fresh is always best.
With its easy prep, minimal ingredients, and flavor-packed results, this Air Fryer Baked Feta Pasta with Spinach is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for one, two, or a family, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy
