I still remember the first time I stumbled upon Jamie Oliver’s roast feta pasta recipe. I had just returned from a long, draining day at work and had zero energy to cook. The only thing in my fridge was a block of feta and some cherry tomatoes I had bought on a whim. I figured, why not? That meal turned out to be one of the most comforting and surprisingly gourmet experiences I’ve ever had in my own kitchen. The cheese melts, the tomatoes burst with flavor, and somehow the pasta feels indulgent without being heavy.
This recipe is perfect for anyone who wants a satisfying, elegant meal without spending hours over the stove. It’s simple, fun, and lets your ingredients shine.
Jamie Oliver’s Roast Feta Pasta Recipe
If you’re not familiar, this is a dish that took TikTok and kitchens everywhere by storm. Jamie’s version keeps it simple: a block of feta, a handful of cherry tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and pasta. Roast it all together and mix with cooked pasta. The magic happens in the oven, where the feta softens and the tomatoes caramelize, releasing their juices into a creamy, tangy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta.
It’s one of those recipes that looks gourmet but doesn’t require a culinary degree. And here’s the kicker: you can tweak it endlessly. It’s a canvas for flavors.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s the lineup you’ll need:
- Feta cheese – One block (200-250g is ideal)
- Cherry tomatoes – About 300g, preferably mixed colors
- Olive oil – 2-3 tablespoons
- Garlic – 2-3 cloves, minced or sliced
- Pasta – 300-400g of your favorite type (spaghetti works beautifully)
- Fresh herbs – Basil or parsley for finishing
- Salt and pepper – To taste
- Optional: chili flakes, lemon zest, or a splash of cream for extra richness
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Roast Feta Pasta
Here’s my step-by-step experience of making this dish:
- Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Place your block of feta in a small oven-proof dish. Scatter the cherry tomatoes around it.
- Drizzle and season: Drizzle olive oil generously over the feta and tomatoes. Sprinkle garlic on top. Add salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using.
- Roast it: Pop it in the oven for 25-30 minutes. The tomatoes should be bursting and the feta golden and soft.
- Cook the pasta: While the feta roasts, cook your pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
- Mash and mix: Take the roasted feta and tomatoes and mash them together in the dish. Add a little pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
- Combine: Toss the cooked pasta in the feta-tomato mixture until every strand is coated. Finish with fresh herbs.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately. The smell alone is worth it.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Let’s geek out a little:
- Feta: This brined cheese softens beautifully when roasted. Its tangy, salty flavor balances the sweet tomatoes.
- Cherry tomatoes: Roasting breaks down their cell walls. This releases natural sugars and juices, creating a naturally sweet and saucy base.
- Olive oil: Acts as a heat conductor and flavor enhancer. It helps the feta melt smoothly and carries the herbs’ aroma.
- Garlic: Roasting mellows its bite and enhances the overall aroma.
The science behind this dish is simple but brilliant: heat transforms humble ingredients into a complex, creamy, flavorful sauce.
Expert Tips
I’ve made this dish more times than I can count. Here are some pro pointers:
- Use room temperature feta so it roasts evenly.
- Don’t overcook the pasta. A little bite lets it hold the sauce.
- Reserve pasta water. It’s liquid gold for adjusting sauce consistency.
- For extra flavor, add a touch of lemon zest after roasting. It brightens the dish.
- Don’t overcrowd the oven tray. Air circulation ensures even roasting.
Recipe Variations
Want to play around? Here’s how:
- Vegetable boost: Add zucchini, peppers, or eggplant to the roasting tray.
- Protein kick: Toss in roasted chicken or crispy pancetta.
- Spicy twist: Add red chili flakes or roasted jalapeños.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or mascarpone after mashing the feta.
- Vegan swap: Use a vegan feta substitute and plant-based pasta. The principle stays the same.
Final Words
Every time I make this pasta, it reminds me why simple food is so satisfying. Minimal effort, maximum flavor. The dish is forgiving, flexible, and feels indulgent. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a last-minute treat for friends, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
FAQs
How Long Should I Roast The Feta In Jamie Oliver’s Pasta Recipe?
You should roast the feta for about 30 minutes at 200°C (400°F) until it’s soft and golden.
Can I Use A Different Type Of Cheese Instead Of Feta?
Yes, you can try using goat cheese or ricotta as alternatives, but feta gives the best flavor.
What Type Of Pasta Works Best For This Recipe?
Any pasta works well, but short shapes like penne or rigatoni are a great choice to hold the sauce.