Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the most Instagram-worthy, mouthwatering dish that's been taking the culinary world by storm! This Baked Feta Pasta with Shrimp isn't just a meal - it's a flavor explosion that combines creamy feta, juicy shrimp, and burst cherry tomatoes into one irresistible Mediterranean-inspired masterpiece. Whether you're a seasoned home chef or a cooking novice, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality results that will have everyone at your table begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 block feta cheese
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 2 cups shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your feta and tomatoes bake evenly and get a nice golden color.
- In a large baking dish, combine the cherry tomatoes and the block of feta cheese. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the tomatoes and feta, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic over the top of the feta and tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a little heat, you can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are bursting and the feta is soft and slightly browned.
- While the feta and tomatoes are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Once the feta and tomatoes are done baking, remove the dish from the oven. Use a fork to mash the feta and mix it with the tomatoes, creating a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the baking dish, tossing everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
- Serve the baked feta pasta warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.
Tips
- Choose high-quality ingredients: Use fresh cherry tomatoes and large, plump shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Don't overcook the shrimp: They should be pink and just opaque to prevent rubbery texture.
- Reserve pasta water: This starchy liquid helps create a silky, smooth sauce and can help adjust the consistency if needed.
- Use a good quality feta cheese: A creamy, high-quality feta will melt beautifully and create a more luxurious sauce.
- Fresh basil is key: Add it just before serving to maintain its bright flavor and aromatic qualities.
- Customize your heat: Add red pepper flakes if you want a spicy kick, or keep it mild for sensitive palates.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed hot, right out of the oven when the sauce is creamy and the shrimp are perfectly tender.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 250mg
