Last updated: June 26, 2025 | Cook time: 45 minutes | Serves: 4-100+ people

Are you tired of trying to figure out how much pasta, feta cheese, and cherry tomatoes you need when cooking the famous TikTok baked feta pasta for a crowd? Whether you're hosting a dinner party for 8 or catering a family reunion for 50, our interactive baked feta pasta calculator takes the guesswork out of scaling this viral recipe.

What is Baked Feta Pasta?

Baked feta pasta, also known as #uunifetapasta or "TikTok pasta," is the creamy, cheesy sensation that broke the internet in 2021. This simple yet incredibly delicious recipe involves baking a block of feta cheese with cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and seasonings until the tomatoes burst and the feta becomes gloriously creamy. When mixed with al dente pasta, it creates an irresistible sauce that's both tangy and rich.

The Viral Recipe Origins

Originally created by Finnish food blogger Jenni Häyrinen (@liemessa) in 2019, this recipe became so popular that Finland experienced a 300% increase in feta cheese sales. The trend exploded globally when American food influencer MacKenzie Smith (@grilledcheesesocial) shared her version, leading to grocery store feta shortages worldwide.

Why You Need a Baked Feta Pasta Calculator

Perfect Portions Every Time

Cooking for a crowd can be stressful. How many blocks of feta do you need for 20 people? What about 50? Our calculator eliminates the math anxiety and ensures you have exactly the right amount of ingredients without waste or shortage.

Cost-Effective Planning

With rising grocery costs, knowing exactly how much you'll spend is crucial. Our calculator provides real-time cost estimates based on current average prices, helping you budget for your event.

Time Management

Large batches require different cooking strategies. The calculator adjusts cooking times and provides crowd-cooking tips for batches over 12 servings, including advice on using multiple baking dishes and managing pasta cooking logistics.

Complete Ingredient List (Base Recipe - Serves 4)

Essential Ingredients:

• 8 oz block feta cheese (full-fat for best creaminess)
• 2 pints cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes)
• 12 oz short pasta (penne, rigatoni, or cavatappi work best)
• 6 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves (smashed)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Pro tip: Use block feta rather than crumbled for the creamiest results. Greek or French feta made from sheep's milk creates the most luxurious texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare Your Oven and Dish (5 minutes)

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Choose a large baking dish - a 9x13 inch works perfectly for the base recipe. For larger batches, use multiple dishes or large hotel pans.

2. Create the Tomato Base (5 minutes)

Combine cherry tomatoes and smashed garlic cloves in your baking dish. Drizzle with most of the olive oil, season with salt and red pepper flakes, then toss to coat evenly.

3. Add the Star: Feta Cheese (2 minutes)

Nestle the feta block in the center of the tomatoes. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and crack fresh black pepper on top.

4. First Bake (30 minutes)

Bake at 400°F for 30 minutes until tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.

5. High-Heat Finish (10-15 minutes)

Increase temperature to 450°F (230°C) and continue baking until tomatoes burst and feta develops golden spots.

6. Pasta Preparation (Meanwhile)

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining - this starchy liquid is crucial for sauce consistency.

7. The Magic Moment (5 minutes)

Remove from oven and immediately mash the feta and tomatoes with a spoon, creating a creamy sauce. Add cooked pasta and fresh basil, tossing to combine. Add pasta water gradually until you achieve perfect creaminess.

Scaling Tips for Large Groups

For 12-24 Servings:

• Use two 9x13 inch baking dishes
• Cook pasta in two large pots for even cooking
• Double the fresh herbs for optimal flavor distribution

For 25-50 Servings:

• Consider using large hotel pans or multiple ovens
• Prep ingredients in advance - tomatoes and feta can be assembled hours ahead
• Have extra pasta water ready - larger batches often need more liquid

For 50+ Servings:

• Plan for extended cooking times
• Use commercial-grade equipment if available
• Consider cooking in smaller batches for quality control

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 485 | Protein: 18g | Carbohydrates: 58g | Fat: 22g | Fiber: 3g | Sodium: 890mg

This recipe provides a balanced mix of protein from feta cheese, complex carbohydrates from pasta, and healthy fats from olive oil. The tomatoes add vitamin C and lycopene, while basil contributes antioxidants.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Protein Additions:

• Grilled chicken (add 1 lb for base recipe)
• Italian sausage (pre-cooked, 3/4 lb)
• Shrimp (1 lb, added in final 5 minutes)

Vegetable Enhancements:

• Fresh spinach (2 cups, wilted in with pasta)
• Roasted asparagus (1 lb, trimmed and halved)
• Zucchini (2 medium, diced and roasted)

Dietary Modifications:

• Gluten-free: Use chickpea or rice pasta
• Dairy-free: Substitute cashew-based feta alternative
• Low-carb: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage:

Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, so add a splash of pasta water or olive oil when reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat with additional pasta water
• Oven: Cover and reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

The tomato and feta mixture can be assembled and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Cook pasta fresh for best texture.

What if I only have crumbled feta?

Crumbled feta works but pile it in the center of the dish to prevent burning. Block feta yields creamier results.

Can I freeze baked feta pasta?

While possible, the texture changes significantly. Fresh preparation is recommended for optimal taste and consistency.

Why isn't my feta getting creamy?

Ensure you're using full-fat block feta and baking at the correct temperature. Some brands are drier than others - Greek or French varieties typically melt better.

Cost Breakdown (Average US Prices)

Base recipe (serves 4): ~$14.00

• Feta cheese block: $6.00
• Cherry tomatoes: $3.50
• Pasta: $1.50
• Olive oil: $1.00
• Other ingredients: $2.00

Costs may vary by location and season. Buying in bulk for large groups often reduces per-serving cost.

Why This Recipe Works So Well

Scientific Success:

The magic happens when feta's proteins break down under heat, creating a naturally creamy sauce without heavy cream. Cherry tomatoes' natural sugars caramelize while their acids balance the saltiness of feta.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal:

• Simple ingredients that most people enjoy
• Impressive presentation that looks gourmet
• Dietary friendly - naturally vegetarian
• Comfort food factor - warm, cheesy, satisfying

Professional Chef Tips

1. Temperature matters: Don't skip the high-heat finish - it's crucial for proper tomato bursting
2. Pasta water is gold: The starch helps bind the sauce beautifully
3. Fresh herbs last: Add basil after baking to preserve its bright flavor
4. Quality ingredients: Better feta and olive oil make a noticeable difference

Conclusion: Master the Viral Sensation

The baked feta pasta calculator transforms this viral TikTok recipe from a small-batch experiment into a reliable crowd-pleasing solution. Whether you're cooking for 4 or 400, precise measurements, timing adjustments, and scaling tips ensure consistent, delicious results every time.

Ready to become the hero of your next gathering? Use our calculator to determine exactly what you need, prep with confidence, and watch as your guests rave about your "effortless" gourmet creation.

Remember: Great cooking isn't about complicated techniques - it's about understanding your ingredients and having the right proportions. This calculator gives you both.