Baked Feta and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

If you are craving a dish that feels cozy, fresh, and just a little bit fancy all at once, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: Baked Feta and Broccoli Pasta. This delightful pasta recipe transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, tangy, and vibrant meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings alike. Imagine tender broccoli florets roasted to perfection with a golden, melty block of feta cheese that creates a luscious sauce to coat every bite of pasta—plus a bright burst of lemon and fresh basil to tie it all together. It’s easy to make but incredibly satisfying, and I can’t wait to share all the details with you!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing this Baked Feta and Broccoli Pasta. Each component plays a starring role—from the crisp broccoli to the creamy feta and fresh herbs—that blend for a dish full of harmony and flavor.

• Broccoli florets: Fresh, small florets work best to roast evenly and add vibrant color and crunch.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps the broccoli roast beautifully with a silky finish.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the dish.
• Block of feta cheese (8 oz): Using a solid block ensures creamy melting and golden edges during baking.
• Dry pasta (8 oz): A short pasta like penne or fusilli catches the sauce nicely and cooks to perfect al dente texture.
• Lemon zest and fresh lemon juice: Brighten the dish with citrusy notes that cut through the creamy richness.
• Fresh basil: Adds a fresh, herbal finish that lifts the whole dish.

How to Make Baked Feta and Broccoli Pasta

Step 1: Roast the Broccoli and Feta

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut the broccoli into small, even florets and toss them in a baking dish with extra-virgin olive oil, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Then, make a little space in the center of the dish and nestle the block of feta right in. Drizzle a bit more olive oil and sprinkle pepper on top of the cheese. Pop everything into the oven and roast for about 35 minutes until the broccoli turns golden brown at the edges and the feta becomes soft and beautifully melty. This step is key to developing those irresistible roasted flavors that define this pasta.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your broccoli and feta are roasting, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook your chosen dry pasta until just al dente—tender but still with a bit of bite. Before draining, reserve half a cup of the pasta cooking water. This flavorful liquid will be your secret weapon for achieving the perfectly creamy sauce when you combine everything later. Drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to be tossed with your roasted ingredients.

Step 3: Combine and Finish the Dish

Once the broccoli and feta are out of the oven, immediately stir everything together in the baking dish. The creamy feta will start to coat the broccoli. Slowly pour in some of your reserved pasta water, stirring until the sauce is smooth and silky. Then fold in the warm cooked pasta until it’s evenly coated. The final flourish comes from fresh lemon zest, a splash of lemon juice, and a handful of chopped basil. These vibrant flavors bring brightness and freshness, perfectly balancing the creamy, rich cheese and hearty broccoli.

How to Serve Baked Feta and Broccoli Pasta

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of chopped fresh basil is an absolute must for vibrant color and fragrance. Don’t be shy with extra lemon zest for an added zing. Toasted pine nuts sprinkled on top bring crunch and a subtle nuttiness that’s absolutely divine here. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil right before serving adds a glossy finish and rounds out the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This Baked Feta and Broccoli Pasta stands up well as a main dish but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. A simple arugula salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette complements the citrus notes in the pasta and adds a peppery bite that contrasts nicely. For a heartier meal, grilled chicken breast or shrimp make fantastic protein additions, either stirred in or served alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your presentation by serving this pasta family-style in the baking dish you cooked it in—inviting everyone to dig in right there. Alternatively, plate individual portions with a flourish of fresh herbs and a slice of lemon on the side for guests to squeeze as they like. For a playful twist, try layering the baked feta and broccoli with pasta sheets to create a pasta bake casserole that doubles as a party showstopper.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Baked Feta and Broccoli Pasta taste amazing and actually grow more flavorful after a night in the fridge. Store them airtight and add a small drizzle of olive oil before sealing to keep the pasta moist and prevent sticking. It will keep for up to 4 days, making it a reliable option for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze portions of this dish to enjoy on busy days. Use freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. The broccoli texture softens a bit after thawing, but the creamy tang from the feta remains deliciously intact. I recommend freezing individual portions so reheating is a breeze and you avoid having to thaw the entire batch.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave with a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, warm the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to revive that creamy texture. Adding a little extra fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon juice after reheating refreshes the flavors and brightens the dish right up.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?

Absolutely! Cauliflower, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are fantastic alternatives that roast well alongside the feta. Just keep in mind the cooking times may vary slightly for softer or firmer vegetables.

What type of feta works best for this pasta?

A block of feta is your best bet because it melts and browns beautifully while holding some shape. Greek feta tends to be tangier and saltier, while varieties from France or Bulgaria can be creamier and milder. Just pat it dry before baking for golden edges.

Is it okay to use pre-crumbled feta?

Pre-crumbled feta won’t create that signature creamy, melty center this dish is known for. Stick with a solid block for the best texture and flavor experience.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. Simply swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety. The flavors won’t be affected, and the dish will be just as satisfying.

How do I prevent the broccoli from getting mushy?

To keep broccoli crisp-tender and vibrantly green, make sure to roast it for the full baking time alongside the feta or add it later if cutting into larger pieces. Avoid overcooking by cutting the florets into small, uniform sizes.

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Baked Feta and Broccoli Pasta a try soon because it truly is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you get a comforting, beautiful meal that’s loaded with flavor and texture. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this pasta will quickly become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation. Trust me—it’s just that good!

Print