Pin A rich and comforting pasta dish featuring a creamy, melty blend of four cheeses, baked together to perfection for an irresistibly cheesy meal.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) penne or rigatoni
- Cheeses: 200 g (7 oz) feta cheese block 100 g (3.5 oz) mozzarella cheese, shredded 100 g (3.5 oz) fontina cheese, shredded 50 g (1.75 oz) parmesan cheese, grated
- Vegetables & Aromatics: 300 g (10.5 oz) cherry tomatoes, halved 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tsp dried oregano ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste 2 tbsp fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Step 2:
- Place the cherry tomatoes in a large baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine.
- Step 3:
- Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the dish, nestling it among the tomatoes. Scatter the shredded mozzarella and fontina evenly around the feta.
- Step 4:
- Bake for 30 minutes, until the tomatoes are bursting and the cheeses are melted and golden.
- Step 5:
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
- Step 6:
- Remove the baking dish from the oven. Add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, parmesan cheese, and chopped basil. Gently stir until everything is creamy and well combined.
- Step 7:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 8:
- Garnish with extra basil and serve immediately.
Pin 
Pin Recipe Q&A
- → What types of cheese are used?
Feta, mozzarella, fontina, and parmesan cheeses come together to create a rich and creamy texture.
- → Can I substitute any cheeses?
Fontina can be replaced with gouda or provolone if unavailable, maintaining the dish's creamy consistency.
- → How should the pasta be cooked?
Cook pasta al dente in salted boiling water, reserving some cooking water to help achieve a smooth sauce when combined.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor?
Fresh basil adds brightness, while dried oregano and garlic contribute aromatic depth to the dish.
- → Is there a suggested wine pairing?
A crisp white wine such as Pinot Grigio complements the creamy and tangy flavors well.
- → Are there any optional ingredients?
Crushed red pepper flakes add a subtle heat, and adding roasted vegetables or sautéed spinach can boost nutrition.