Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your dinner routine forever! This Easy Baked Feta Pasta with Bacon and Mushrooms is not just another recipe - it's a game-changing dish that combines creamy, tangy feta, crispy bacon, and earthy mushrooms in one irresistible pan. Imagine diving into a creamy, flavor-packed pasta that comes together with minimal effort but delivers maximum taste. Whether you're a busy home cook or a passionate foodie, this recipe promises to become your new obsession, delivering restaurant-quality flavors right from your own kitchen.
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
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even cooking.
- In a large oven-safe baking dish, place the block of feta cheese in the center. Arrange sliced cherry tomatoes and sliced mushrooms around the feta.
- Sprinkle chopped bacon pieces evenly over the tomatoes and mushrooms. Drizzle olive oil over the entire dish, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and the bacon is crisp.
- While the feta and vegetables are roasting, cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven. Immediately use a fork to break up the soft feta cheese and mix it with the roasted tomatoes, mushrooms, and bacon to create a creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta directly into the baking dish. Toss everything together, using reserved pasta water if needed to help create a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like basil or parsley if available. Recommend serving immediately while the dish is warm and the cheese is still creamy.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality feta cheese and ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor profile.
- Don't Overcook the Pasta: Cook your pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to absorb sauce in the baking dish.
- Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta water before draining - it's liquid gold for creating a silky, smooth sauce.
- Bacon Crispiness: For extra crispy bacon, consider partially cooking it before adding to the dish.
- Customize Your Herbs: While the recipe suggests basil or parsley, feel free to experiment with fresh thyme or oregano.
- Oven Placement Matters: Use the middle rack to ensure even roasting and prevent burning.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking to let flavors meld and sauce thicken.Pro tip: This dish is best served immediately while the cheese is still creamy and the bacon crisp. Enjoy it straight from the oven for the ultimate dining experience!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
