Viral Baked Feta Pasta

Instructions

1. 1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. 2. Toss cherry tomatoes and olive oil with 1/4 teaspoon salt and several grinds of black pepper in a baking dish.
3. 3. Place the feta block in the center of the tomatoes. Drizzle with a little more olive oil.
4. 4. Bake 30 minutes until tomatoes burst and feta softens. Increase heat to 450 degrees F and bake 10-15 more minutes until golden brown.
5. 5. Meanwhile, cook pasta in generously salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
6. 6. Remove dish from oven. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes. Smash tomatoes and feta into a creamy sauce with the back of a spoon.
7. 7. Add pasta and basil, toss to coat. Thin with pasta water if needed. Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.