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Baked Feta Mac and Cheese Recipe

4.7 from 141 reviews

This Baked Feta Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting twist on the classic mac and cheese, combining the tangy flavor of baked feta with cheddar, garlic, fresh spinach, and cherry tomatoes. It’s an easy one-dish meal baked to perfection with a rich sauce and nutritious greens, perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Dairy

  • 300 g (~2 cups) uncooked macaroni
  • 650 ml (~2 1/2 cups) milk (full fat or semi-skimmed)
  • 100 g grated cheddar cheese (~1 cup when grated)
  • 200 g (~7 oz) block of feta cheese

Flavorings and Vegetables

  • 1 tsp minced garlic or garlic puree
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried mixed herbs
  • 1 large handful fresh spinach, roughly chopped
  • ~8 good quality cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 75 ml (~1/4 cup) water (optional, if needed)

Instructions

  1. Combine ingredients: In a baking dish approximately 8 x 8 inches, add the uncooked macaroni, milk, grated cheddar cheese, minced garlic, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
  2. Add feta and bake: Place the block of feta cheese in the center on top of the macaroni mixture. Sprinkle with dried mixed herbs and a bit more black pepper. Bake uncovered at 190°C (375°F / Gas Mark 5) for about 30 minutes.
  3. Stir baked feta: Remove the dish from the oven and break up the softened feta with a spoon or spatula. Stir thoroughly to combine the feta throughout the pasta and sauce.
  4. Add vegetables and finish baking: Add the roughly chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes to the dish and stir again. If the mixture seems thick or the pasta requires more cooking, add a splash of water. Return the dish to the oven for another 10 minutes until the spinach is wilted and cherry tomatoes are hot.

Notes

  • Use full-fat or semi-skimmed milk for a creamier texture; low-fat milk is not recommended.
  • The feta cheese adds a tangy, salty flavor and creamy texture when baked and stirred in.
  • Adjust the water amount as needed to prevent the pasta from drying out.
  • Feel free to substitute macaroni with other small pasta shapes like penne or shells.
  • For a vegetarian option, ensure the cheese used is suitable (no animal-derived rennet).

Keywords: baked feta mac and cheese, baked pasta, mac and cheese recipe, creamy mac and cheese, spinach mac and cheese, tomato mac and cheese