Table of Contents
Article Intro
If you’re craving something rich, cheesy, and soul-satisfying, this Instant Pot Feta Pasta recipe is exactly what you need. Inspired by the viral baked version but cooked faster and easier, this Instant Pot Feta Pasta combines tender pasta, tangy feta, juicy tomatoes, and bold herbs in one pressure-cooked masterpiece. And we’re giving it a Southern flair—yes, we’re adding swamp potatoes. This isn’t your average weeknight meal. It’s creamy, herby, and done in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re new to pressure cooking or a seasoned pro, this Instant Pot Feta Pasta brings bold flavor and comfort to your table with zero fuss.
Instant Pot Feta Pasta with Swamp Potatoes: A Flavorful Fusion
- Total Time: 15 min
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Description
Creamy, herby, and packed with juicy tomatoes, this Instant Pot Feta Pasta blends Mediterranean flavor with Southern comfort. Done in under 20 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
- 16oz. Cavatappi pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 8oz. feta cheese, crumbled or block
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup fresh basil (about ¾oz.), chopped
- 10oz. cherry tomatoes
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Add cavatappi pasta to Instant Pot with chicken broth, garlic powder and salt. Stir well.
- Add feta cheese, parmesan cheese, basil and tomatoes on top of pasta. Don’t mix.
- Secure lid, close seal and pressure cook on high for 4 minutes. When time is complete, quick release the pressure.
- Carefully remove lid and gently use a wooden spoon to stir everything together.
- Serve with additional cherry tomatoes and fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 4 min
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Why This Instant Pot Feta Pasta Is More Than a Trend
A dish born from kitchen culture clash
This dish came from my life, not a food trend. Growing up with German and American roots, I learned that the most comforting meals often come from creative crossovers. Years ago in Louisiana, I fell in love with swamp potatoes—earthy, buttery, and perfect with herbs. So when Instant Pot Feta Pasta went viral, I saw a chance to merge that Southern heartiness with creamy Mediterranean flair.
This recipe is my fusion: tender cavatappi, salty feta, vibrant cherry tomatoes, and the spirit of swamp potatoes—all in one fast, flavorful pot. It’s not just another viral copycat. It’s comfort food with a twist.
Curious how I’ve reinvented other viral favorites? Whip up this creamy Instant Pot Feta Pasta—a bold, comforting dish that brings big flavor and effortless cooking together in one pot.
Why the Instant Pot makes this pasta unbeatable
Making Instant Pot Feta Pasta is so much easier than the oven version—and that’s saying something. With the Instant Pot, the pasta cooks perfectly in broth, and the feta melts into a rich, creamy sauce, all without babysitting. No boiling water, no draining, no mess.
This method keeps everything flavorful and efficient, especially when you want bold taste in a short time. I’ve even used the same approach in recipes like Frozen Corn on the Cob, and it never disappoints. Instant Pot Feta Pasta proves you don’t need a full kitchen setup to make something crave-worthy and comforting.
Building Big Flavor in Every Bite of Instant Pot Feta Pasta
Ingredient breakdown for perfect results
What makes this Instant Pot Feta Pasta truly shine is how each ingredient adds texture and depth. You’re not just throwing things into a pot—you’re layering flavor strategically. Let’s start with the pasta. Cavatappi is ideal here because its curves and ridges hold sauce beautifully, but penne or rotini work if that’s what’s in your pantry.
Feta cheese is the star—use a block if you can find it. It melts better and gives you that luxurious texture you expect in Instant Pot Feta Pasta. Crumbled feta works in a pinch, but it won’t be quite as rich. The cherry tomatoes burst under pressure, balancing the creaminess with a bright pop of acidity.
Then there’s parmesan—grated, never powdered—bringing that salty umami kick. Add fresh chopped basil for earthiness and color, garlic powder for warmth, and kosher salt to round it all out. Chicken broth helps the pasta cook evenly and adds savory depth. Want to keep it vegetarian? Just swap in vegetable broth instead.
I love recipes that work with pantry basics. Just like my Instant Pot Chicken Legs, this dish proves you don’t need fancy ingredients to eat like a queen.
Easy swaps and helpful tips
Don’t have cavatappi? Go for fusilli, elbows, or any pasta with ridges. No basil? Use spinach or a pinch of Italian seasoning. You can even add a handful of chopped swamp potatoes—yes, real ones—if you want to double down on that Southern twist.
Prefer extra heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes can turn this Instant Pot Feta Pasta into a spicy treat. And if you’re feeling adventurous, toss in a spoonful of pesto just before serving for a herby finish.
Need another comforting pasta idea? My Instant Pot Lasagna Soup brings all the flavor of lasagna—without the layering.
In every variation, the secret is letting the pressure cooker do the work. That’s the beauty of this dish. You prep in five minutes, hit a button, and boom—dinner’s ready in less time than it takes to scroll through your feed.
How to Make Instant Pot Feta Pasta Step by Step
Quick setup, minimal prep, big payoff
One of the best things about Instant Pot Feta Pasta is that it’s almost too easy. You toss everything in, let pressure do the heavy lifting, and stir. That’s it. But like any good recipe, there are a few tips that make it even smoother.
Start by grabbing your Instant Pot and measuring out your ingredients. Use 16oz of cavatappi pasta (or similar short pasta), and pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. The broth isn’t just for cooking—it’s your flavor base. Add ½ teaspoon each of kosher salt and garlic powder and give it a quick stir to coat the pasta evenly.
Now layer on the good stuff: crumble 8oz of feta cheese right on top—don’t mix it in. Add ¼ cup grated parmesan, a big handful of chopped fresh basil (about 1 cup), and scatter 10oz of cherry tomatoes over everything. Resist the urge to stir. That’s the magic of Instant Pot Feta Pasta—you let it cook in layers for the best texture.
Just like with my Instant Pot Yellow Rice, timing is key. You’ll pressure cook on high for 4 minutes. Expect 5–10 minutes to come to pressure, but don’t worry—nothing’s burning.
Pressure cook like a pro
Once you’ve sealed the lid and set your Instant Pot to high pressure, you can walk away. Once the Instant Pot Feta Pasta is done, carefully perform a quick pressure release when the timer beeps. Steam will shoot out, so keep your hands clear.
As soon as the pin drops and it’s safe to open the lid, grab a wooden spoon and gently stir everything together. The feta melts into a creamy sauce, the tomatoes burst perfectly, and the basil blends into every bite.
If you want to take it to the next level, top it with a few extra fresh tomatoes and basil right before serving. And for those who like a heartier meal, this pasta pairs beautifully with tender bites of Instant Pot Cabbage or even leftover grilled chicken.
From dry pasta to creamy perfection in under 15 minutes? That’s the kind of Instant Pot magic we live for.
Serving, Storing, and Reheating Instant Pot Feta Pasta
How to serve it like a weeknight rockstar
After you’ve stirred your Instant Pot Feta Pasta into creamy perfection, it’s time to plate it like it deserves. This dish stands strong on its own, but a few extras can make it feel restaurant-worthy.
Top it with extra cherry tomatoes for a juicy pop, or sprinkle a little more grated parmesan for richness. A handful of fresh basil adds brightness and color. Want crunch? Try toasted breadcrumbs or pine nuts.
If you’re serving guests—or just treating yourself—pair this pasta with a light side like air-fried zucchini or roasted veggies. It also goes surprisingly well with Instant Pot Birria Tacos for a bold fusion dinner.
Craving more Southern comfort on the side? A small bowl of Instant Pot Swamp Potatoes adds that nostalgic, peppery depth that makes this pasta truly sing.
How to store and reheat without losing flavor
Leftovers? Yes, please. Instant Pot Feta Pasta stays fresh and flavorful—just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s still rich and creamy the next day—especially if you add a splash of broth or milk before reheating to revive that velvety texture.
To reheat, scoop out a portion and add a splash of milk or chicken broth before microwaving. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each, until warm and creamy again.
Avoid overheating, or the sauce may dry out. You can also reheat it in a pan on the stovetop with a bit of broth, which works great for larger portions.
Freezing is not ideal—the feta and tomatoes don’t hold up well in texture. For the best taste and texture, Instant Pot Feta Pasta is best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of cooking.
Want more easy Instant Pot meals that store well? My Instant Pot Palusami and Instant Pot Strawberry Cake both taste even better the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What pasta works best for Instant Pot Feta Pasta?
Cavatappi is a great choice because it holds sauce well, but you can also use penne, fusilli, or even elbows. Just avoid long noodles, which cook unevenly in the Instant Pot.
Can I use crumbled feta instead of a block?
Yes, crumbled feta will work, but a block creates a creamier sauce. If possible, go for a block for the best texture in your Instant Pot Feta Pasta.
How do I make it vegetarian?
Simply replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. The flavors stay rich, and you’ll still get the same creamy consistency in your Instant Pot Feta Pasta.
Is this pasta good for meal prep?
Absolutely. It stores well for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully with a splash of milk or broth. Just avoid freezing it, as feta doesn’t thaw well.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a fast, no-fuss dinner that delivers comfort and bold flavor, this Instant Pot Feta Pasta with a swamp potato twist is exactly what you need. It’s creamy, herby, and totally satisfying. And with your Instant Pot doing most of the work, it’s a weeknight win you’ll turn to again and again.
From the tang of feta to the earthy nod to Southern cooking, this dish reflects everything I love about food—bold, simple, and rooted in memory. Whether you’re new to pressure cooking or already a pro, one thing’s for sure: you’ll never look at feta pasta the same way again.
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