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Deliciously creamy Baked Feta Mac and Cheese served in a bowl

Baked Feta Mac and Cheese

A comforting and easy-to-make Baked Feta Mac and Cheese with creamy milk, tangy feta, and deliciously melted cheddar, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Essentials
  • 300 g uncooked macaroni classic elbow or small pasta shapes work best for holding sauce
  • 650 ml milk full fat or semi-skimmed; full fat gives the richest result
  • 100 g grated cheddar cheese adds meltiness and sharpness
  • 1 tsp minced garlic or garlic puree for subtle, warming flavor
  • 1 tsp black pepper freshly ground if possible for better aroma
  • 200 g block of feta cheese the star ingredient; a whole block placed in the center
  • 1/2 tsp dried mixed herbs oregano, thyme, or a mild Italian blend
  • 1 large handful fresh spinach, roughly chopped adds color, nutrients, and a soft bite
  • 8 cherry tomatoes, halved bursting, slightly sweet contrast to the feta
  • 75 ml water to loosen the mixture if it thickens
Optional add-ons
  • 1 handful frozen peas stir in with the spinach for extra pop and color
  • 25-50 g grated Parmesan sprinkle into the dish or on top for a nutty note
  • 1 drizzle of olive oil or a few basil leaves after baking
  • toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crunchy topping; add before final 10 minutes
  • red pepper flakes for a mild heat kick
  • 1 cup cooked shredded chicken for added protein (optional)

Method
 

Preheat and prep
  1. Set your oven to 190°C (Gas Mark 5 / 375°F). Put a medium-to-large baking dish on the counter.
  2. Grate the cheddar, roughly chop the spinach, and halve the cherry tomatoes.
Combine the pasta base
  1. In the baking dish, pour in the 300 g of uncooked macaroni. Add 650 ml of milk evenly so pasta is mostly submerged.
  2. Sprinkle in the grated cheddar, minced garlic, and black pepper. Stir gently to combine.
Add the feta centerpiece
  1. Place the block of feta in the center of the dish, pressing it down gently into the pasta mixture.
  2. Sprinkle dried mixed herbs over the feta and a little extra black pepper.
Bake the dish (first phase)
  1. Put the baking dish uncovered into the preheated oven. Bake for about 30 minutes.
Break and stir the feta in
  1. After 30 minutes, carefully remove the dish from the oven.
  2. Break up the softened feta into chunks and stir the mixture thoroughly for an even texture.
Add the greens and tomatoes
  1. Stir in the chopped spinach and the halved cherry tomatoes.
  2. If the mixture feels overly thick, add a splash of water to loosen it.
Return and finish baking (second phase)
  1. Put the dish back in the oven for about 10 more minutes.
  2. Add breadcrumbs or extra Parmesan now if using.
Rest and serve
  1. Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  2. Taste for seasoning and serve warm.

Notes

Keep the water use to a minimum; pasta absorbs liquid as it bakes. Crumble feta for a softer texture throughout or leave whole for a visual centerpiece. Finish under a hot grill for extra crispiness.