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Baked Feta Mac and Cheese Recipe

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4.2 from 1 review

This Baked Feta Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that combines the sharpness of cheddar with the tangy richness of baked feta. Enhanced with garlic, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes, it’s a flavorful twist on a classic favorite, perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

Pasta and Cheese

  • 300 g (~ 2 cups) uncooked macaroni
  • 650 ml (~ 2 1/2 cups) milk (full fat or semi-skimmed – not low fat)
  • 100 g grated cheddar cheese (~ 1 cup when grated)
  • 200 g (~ 7 oz) block of feta cheese

Seasonings and Add-ins

  • 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 (if needed)

Instructions

  1. Combine ingredients: Add the uncooked macaroni, milk, grated cheddar cheese, minced garlic, and black pepper to a baking dish (approximately 8 x 8 inches). Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
  2. Add feta and bake: Place the block of feta cheese in the middle of the dish on top of the pasta mixture. Sprinkle the feta with dried mixed herbs and a little extra black pepper. Bake the dish uncovered in a preheated oven at 190°C (Gas Mark 5 / 375°F) for about 30 minutes, until the pasta is partially cooked and the feta starts to soften.
  3. Mix and add vegetables: Remove the dish from the oven. Break up the feta with a spoon or spatula and stir thoroughly to combine with the pasta. Add the chopped spinach and halved cherry tomatoes, stirring again to distribute the vegetables evenly. If the mixture appears too thick or the pasta needs further cooking, add approximately 75 ml (1/4 cup) of water to loosen it.
  4. Return to oven: Bake the dish again for an additional 10 minutes until the spinach has wilted and the cherry tomatoes are heated through, and the pasta is fully cooked and creamy.

Notes

  • Use full-fat or semi-skimmed milk for a creamy texture; avoid low-fat milk as it may affect the dish’s richness.
  • If preferred, substitute dried mixed herbs with fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for a fresher taste.
  • Ensure the baking dish is oven-safe and approximately 8 x 8 inches (20 x 20 cm) for optimal cooking results.
  • Adding the water during the second bake helps prevent the pasta from drying out and ensures even cooking.
  • This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Find it online: https://yumntasty.com/baked-feta-mac-and-cheese-recipe/