Baked Feta and Broccoli Pasta with Lemon Recipe

Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: the Baked Feta and Broccoli Pasta with Lemon Recipe. This dish is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in a way that feels both comforting and fresh. Imagine tender roasted broccoli mingling with creamy, tangy baked feta, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and brightened up by zesty lemon juice and fragrant basil. It’s easy enough for busy evenings but impressive enough to serve when you want to wow friends or family. Each bite is a perfect balance of creaminess, citrus brightness, and a satisfying veggie crunch you’ll crave again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, and the best part is, they’re all simple pantry staples or fresh essentials you can grab any day. From the hearty broccoli to the rich feta and vibrant lemon, each one adds flavor, texture, and color that make this dish irresistible.

• 8 oz pasta: Choose your favorite shape—penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti—to soak up that luscious sauce.
• 4 cups broccoli florets: Fresh broccoli adds a beautiful crunch and earthy flavor after roasting.
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil: Rich and fruity, it helps roast the broccoli and feta to golden perfection.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances the natural flavors and balances the dish.
• 1/2 tsp fresh cracked black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that cuts through the creaminess.
• 8 oz brick of feta: The star cheese that melts beautifully while baking, creating a creamy, tangy sauce.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brings a fresh acidity that brightens every bite.
• 2 tbsp lemon zest: Adds a wonderful citrus aroma and extra zing.
• 2 tbsp fresh chopped basil: Provides an herbaceous finish that ties all the flavors together.

How to Make Baked Feta and Broccoli Pasta with Lemon Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Roast the Broccoli and Feta

Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it’s nice and hot for roasting. Cut your broccoli florets into quarters for even cooking. Spread them out in a baking dish and drizzle with half a cup of olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Give everything a good toss so each floret is coated in that glorious olive oil. Now, create a little space in the center of the broccoli mound and nestle your whole block of feta right there. Drizzle a bit more olive oil over the top of the feta and a crack of black pepper. This sets the stage for a flavorful, melty center while the broccoli crisps up beautifully around it.

Step 2: Bake to Perfection

Pop your baking dish in the oven and let it bake for about 35 minutes. This slow roasting softens the broccoli into tender bites and transforms the feta into a luscious, golden centerpiece. The smell that will fill your kitchen is just heavenly—you’ll know it’s ready when the edges of the broccoli are slightly charred and the feta is wonderfully bubbly.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While your feta and broccoli are baking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 8 ounces of pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to reserve half a cup of that starchy pasta water before draining—it will come in handy for creating the creaminess you want in the final dish!

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Once the baking is complete, take the dish out of the oven. Immediately stir the feta and broccoli together so the feta melts into a creamy sauce coating the veggies. Gradually add a little pasta water, stirring until you reach your preferred consistency. Then fold the warm pasta gently into the mixture. Finish by stirring in your lemon juice, lemon zest, and fresh basil—these last additions instantly lift the dish with bright, fresh notes that make this Baked Feta and Broccoli Pasta with Lemon Recipe truly unforgettable.

How to Serve Baked Feta and Broccoli Pasta with Lemon Recipe

Garnishes

A little extra goes a long way when it comes to garnishing! Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan or a few red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Toasted pine nuts or walnuts add a delightful crunch and earthiness if you want a nutty twist. A few whole basil leaves on top turn this into a restaurant-worthy presentation that feels special and fresh.

Side Dishes

This pasta stands beautifully on its own but pairing it with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors perfectly. You could also serve some warm, crusty bread alongside for scooping up every last bit of that luscious sauce. Light roasted or grilled chicken breast makes a wonderful protein-packed addition if you want a heartier meal overall.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun family-style approach, serve the baked feta, broccoli, and pasta right from the baking dish with lemon wedges on the side for everyone to squeeze in fresh juice. Alternatively, you can plate individual servings with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of basil for an elegant touch. Add edible flowers for a pop of color if you feel playful, making your dinner table look as amazing as the flavors taste!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after a night in the fridge, making for even tastier next-day meals. Just make sure to add a splash of water or olive oil when reheating to keep the pasta creamy and prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze this pasta, but be mindful that the texture of the broccoli and feta might change slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze, portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags and use within 2 months for the best flavor. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low-medium heat on the stove, stirring often and adding a bit of water or olive oil to restore creaminess. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between each, to avoid overheating any one spot. Fresh basil and lemon zest added after reheating bring back that fresh, just-made brightness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh for this recipe?

While fresh broccoli is preferred for roasting because it crisps up nicely, frozen broccoli can work in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw and drain it very well to avoid excess moisture, which could make the dish watery.

Is feta cheese the best choice for this recipe?

Feta is fantastic for its tangy, creamy qualities that melt beautifully when baked. If you want to experiment, a creamy goat cheese could work, but feta’s unique saltiness is really part of what makes this dish sing.

Can I add other vegetables to the bake?

Absolutely! Cherry tomatoes, sliced bell peppers, or zucchini can be wonderful additions. Just keep in mind their different roasting times—adding them halfway through the bake or adjusting cut sizes helps everything cook evenly.

What pasta shape works best with this sauce?

Short, ridged shapes like penne, fusilli, or rigatoni are great because they hold the sauce well. That said, feel free to use whatever you love or have on hand.

How can I make this dish vegan?

To enjoy a vegan version, swap the feta for a plant-based cheese that melts well or try a cashew cream sauce. Keep the lemon, broccoli, and pasta, and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy note.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to throw together, and endlessly satisfying, this Baked Feta and Broccoli Pasta with Lemon Recipe is your new go-to. It’s a beautiful way to turn simple ingredients into a flavorful celebration on your plate. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it over and over, sharing that same warm feeling with every bite.

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