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Baked Feta and Broccoli Pasta Recipe

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4.4 from 36 reviews

A creamy, flavorful baked feta and broccoli pasta dish that combines roasted broccoli, rich feta cheese, and fresh lemon zest to create a comforting and vibrant meal perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Pasta and Vegetables

  • 8 oz pasta
  • 4 cups broccoli florets

Seasonings and Flavorings

  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp fresh chopped basil

Dairy

  • 8 oz brick of feta

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Broccoli: Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Cut the broccoli florets into quarters and place them evenly in a baking dish.
  2. Season Broccoli and Add Feta: Drizzle 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper over the broccoli. Toss gently to coat all florets. Create a space in the center of the broccoli and place the 8 oz feta brick there. Drizzle additional olive oil and black pepper over the top of the feta.
  3. Bake Feta and Broccoli: Bake the dish in the oven at 400°F for 35 minutes, allowing the broccoli to roast and the feta to soften and slightly brown.
  4. Cook Pasta: While the feta and broccoli bake, cook 8 oz of pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
  5. Combine Ingredients: Once baked, remove the feta and broccoli from the oven. Immediately stir the softened feta and roasted broccoli together until combined into a creamy mixture. Add reserved pasta water gradually until your desired creaminess is achieved.
  6. Finish Pasta Dish: Add the warm cooked pasta to the baking dish and gently toss to coat. Stir in 1 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp lemon zest, and 2 tbsp fresh chopped basil. Mix well to fully incorporate flavors.
  7. Serve: Serve the baked feta and broccoli pasta immediately for a warm, flavorful meal.

Notes

  • Using freshly cracked black pepper intensifies the flavor.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust creaminess without thinning flavors.
  • Fresh basil adds a bright, herbal finish; omit if unavailable.
  • Gluten-free pasta can be used for a gluten-free version.
  • For a milder dish, reduce the amount of black pepper.