Name: Baked Feta Tomato Chickpea Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 8 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli); 8 ounces feta cheese (block); 15 ounces chickpeas (canned, drained and rinsed); 2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved); 1/4 cup olive oil; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; salt and pepper (to taste); fresh basil (for garnish)

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If you’re looking for a simple, delicious, and wholesome pasta dish that comes together with minimal fuss but maximum flavor, this Baked Feta Tomato Chickpea Pasta is your new go-to. It’s a modern twist on the viral baked feta pasta trend, but with the added heartiness of chickpeas and the Mediterranean tang of feta cheese. The combination of roasted cherry tomatoes bursting with sweetness and creamy feta melting into a luscious sauce creates a perfect harmony that clings to every piece of penne or fusilli pasta. Not only is this dish incredibly tasty, but it also checks boxes for being quick, nutritious, and satisfying for any night of the week.

Why It’s Crowd-Pleasing

This Baked Feta Tomato Chickpea Pasta recipe hits all the right notes to win over a crowd. First, it’s visually stunning—imagine a rustic bake brimming with juicy roasted tomatoes, golden chickpeas, and a bubbling block of feta that transforms into a creamy sauce. The aromas that fill your kitchen as it bakes will have everyone anticipating dinner.

Beyond its look and smell, the dish offers layers of texture and flavor. The chickpeas add a lovely bite and protein boost, making it more filling than your typical pasta. The garlic and herbs create a fragrant base, while the olive oil adds richness without heaviness. Plus, it’s super versatile, so vegetarians and those looking for a meatless meal will appreciate its hearty nature. It’s also perfect for sharing at gatherings or meal prepping for lunches during the week.

For those who love experimenting with pasta dishes, this recipe pairs beautifully with other Mediterranean-inspired meals—you might even want to try it alongside a light Roasted Pepper And Feta Salad for a complete experience.

Shopping List

8 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli work best for holding the sauce)
1 block (8 ounces) feta cheese
1 can (15 ounces) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Equipment at a Glance

Oven-safe baking dish (around 9×13 inches or similar size)
Large pot for boiling pasta
Colander for draining pasta and chickpeas
Mixing bowl
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Knife and cutting board for prepping garlic and tomatoes

Step-by-Step: Baked Feta Tomato Chickpea Pasta

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab your baking dish and place the block of feta right in the center. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes and drained chickpeas evenly around the feta. Drizzle the olive oil over everything, then sprinkle the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper on top. Mix the tomatoes and chickpeas gently so they’re coated with the oil and seasonings, but keep the feta block intact.

Step 2: Bake the Feta and Tomatoes

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the tomatoes are blistered and bursting, chickpeas are golden, and the feta is soft and starting to brown on top. This roasting process creates the signature creamy sauce that’s the heart of this dish.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the feta and tomatoes bake, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta.

Step 4: Combine and Stir

Remove the baking dish from the oven. Using a fork or spoon, mash the feta and roasted tomatoes together, mixing in the chickpeas to create a creamy, chunky sauce. Add the cooked pasta directly into the baking dish and toss everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually stir in some reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Serve warm, and enjoy the perfect balance of tangy, savory, and herbaceous flavors in every bite.

Dietary Customizations

Vegan version: Substitute feta with a plant-based vegan feta cheese alternative or use a firm tofu marinated in lemon juice and herbs.
Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta varieties such as brown rice, quinoa, or chickpea-based pasta.
Low-carb: Replace pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles and reduce the quantity of chickpeas.
Extra protein: Add cooked grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp on top for a non-vegetarian option.
Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when seasoning the tomatoes and chickpeas before baking.

Cook’s Notes

For the best flavor, use high-quality olive oil and fresh garlic.
Don’t skip reserving pasta water; it’s the secret to a silky sauce consistency.
Feel free to swap cherry tomatoes for grape tomatoes or even small heirlooms for a different flavor profile.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.
If you want a creamier texture, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or Greek yogurt after mixing the pasta and sauce.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Baked Feta Tomato Chickpea Pasta can be made ahead by preparing the baked feta and tomato mixture up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerating it. When ready, bake as instructed, then combine with freshly cooked pasta.

Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or olive oil to loosen the sauce if needed.

Reader Q&A

Can I use another type of cheese instead of feta?

Feta is key to achieving that creamy, tangy sauce, but if you prefer, you can try halloumi or ricotta for a milder flavor. Just note that the texture and taste will vary slightly from the classic baked feta experience.

Is it necessary to bake the feta and tomatoes together?

Yes, baking is what softens the feta and bursts the tomatoes, allowing them to meld into a luscious sauce. Skipping this step will result in a very different texture and flavor.

Can I prepare this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap your regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free alternative such as rice or chickpea pasta. The sauce remains the same and is naturally gluten-free.

What’s the best pasta shape for this recipe?

Penne or fusilli are ideal because their shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Other short pasta shapes like rigatoni or farfalle would also work well.

Try These Next

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta Bake – For a rich and comforting pasta bake with a fresh tomato twist.
Pasta With Fresh Tomato Sauce And Basil – A bright and simple pasta perfect for summer nights.
Roasted Pepper And Feta Salad – A vibrant side that complements baked feta pasta beautifully.

Save & Share

If you loved this Baked Feta Tomato Chickpea Pasta, don’t forget to bookmark this recipe for easy access whenever you need a quick, flavorful meal. Share it with friends and family who appreciate fuss-free cooking with big flavors. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or a weekend meal prepper, this pasta will become a staple in your recipe box.

With its inviting combination of savory feta, sweet roasted tomatoes, and protein-packed chickpeas, this dish offers a comforting yet fresh meal that’s sure to satisfy. Serve it with a crisp green salad or some garlic bread, and enjoy a wholesome dinner full of Mediterranean flair.

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