These Baked Feta Potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic roasted potato dish. Combining crispy potatoes with creamy baked feta creates a rich, flavorful side that pairs wonderfully with various mains. Perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or even meal prep, this dish stands out with its unique flavor profile and simple preparation. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how it impresses your guests!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Twist: Experience the delicious combination of crispy potatoes and tangy baked feta.
- Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe doesn’t require culinary expertise.
- Versatile Side Dish: Great for any occasion – whether a holiday feast or a casual dinner.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Enjoy wholesome ingredients like garlic and fresh herbs that enhance both taste and nutrition.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is sure to impress family and friends alike with its vibrant flavors.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Aluminum foil
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Provides an even surface for roasting the potatoes and feta, ensuring perfect texture.
- Saucepan: Essential for par-boiling the potatoes to achieve that ideal crispiness during roasting.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting potatoes and garlic easier, enhancing your cooking efficiency.
Ingredients
These baked feta potatoes – inspired by the viral baked feta pasta trend – make the perfect rich, flavorful side dish, with crispy roasted potatoes tossed in baked feta cheese.
Potatoes and Feta
- 2 large baking potatoes
- 1 200g block of feta
Herbs and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 tsp red chilli flakes
Aromatics
- 1 head of garlic (top cut off)
Citrus and Sweetness
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 tbsp honey
Garnish
- 1/4 cup | 20g fresh basil
How to Make Baked Feta Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200C | 390F.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and cube your potatoes. Add them to a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil. Par-boil the potatoes for 6-8 minutes (do not exceed 10 minutes), then drain and let them steam dry for 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
Add the par-boiled potatoes to your baking dish along with thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and 2 tbsp olive oil. Stir well to coat evenly.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic
Drizzle olive oil over the whole head of garlic while wrapping it in aluminum foil. Place it in the baking dish alongside the seasoned potatoes.
Step 5: Roast Potatoes and Garlic
Roast everything in the oven for about 30-40 minutes until golden brown, crispy, and almost cooked through.
Step 6: Add Feta Cheese
Remove the tray from the oven and take out the garlic. Position the feta in the center of the baking dish (dipping one side in seasonings can enhance flavor). Squeeze juice from half a lemon over it.
Step 7: Continue Roasting
Return everything to the oven for another 15 minutes.
Step 8: Prepare Roasted Garlic
Once cooled slightly, squeeze out roasted garlic from its skin into a bowl. Mash it using the flat side of your knife.
Step 9: Combine Flavors
Incorporate mashed garlic back into the potatoes along with juice from the other half of lemon and fresh basil leaves. Mix gently.
Step 10: Drizzle Honey
Finish by drizzling honey over everything along with shredded basil. Sprinkle red chili flakes on top for some heat.
Step 11: Serve
Plate your delicious Baked Feta Potatoes, serve warm, and enjoy this delightful side!
How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes
Baked feta potatoes are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner, here are some creative serving suggestions to make the most of this flavorful dish.
With Grilled Chicken
- Juicy grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with baked feta potatoes, adding protein and complementing the rich flavors.
As a Salad Base
- Use baked feta potatoes as a warm base for fresh salads. Top with greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for added crunch.
Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables
- Serve alongside seasonal roasted vegetables to create a balanced plate full of color and nutrients.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish your baked feta potatoes with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an extra burst of flavor and freshness.
With Greek Yogurt
- A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt on top enhances the richness of the dish while adding a tangy contrast.
Paired with Hummus
- Serve with hummus for dipping; it adds another layer of flavor that beautifully complements the potatoes and feta.
How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes
To ensure your baked feta potatoes turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
Choose the right potatoes: Opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for fluffy interiors.
Par-boil carefully: Make sure not to overboil your potatoes; par-boiling them for 6-8 minutes gives them the perfect texture before roasting.
Use quality feta: A good-quality block of feta cheese will melt beautifully and enhance the overall flavor.
Don’t skip the garlic: Roasting garlic adds sweetness and depth, making your baked feta potatoes even more delicious.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other herbs or spices according to your taste preferences, such as rosemary or smoked paprika.
Let them rest: Letting your baked feta potatoes sit for a few minutes after baking helps all the flavors meld together.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes
Baked feta potatoes are versatile and can complement various main dishes. Here are some excellent side dishes that pair well with this delightful recipe.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with creamy potatoes.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This refreshing salad features quinoa, cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives, offering vibrant flavors that balance the richness of the potatoes.
Lemon Garlic Green Beans: Bright green beans sautéed in lemon juice and garlic provide a zesty kick alongside baked feta potatoes.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze create a savory side that complements the dish perfectly.
Cucumber Tzatziki Salad: This cool salad made with yogurt and cucumber offers a refreshing contrast to warm baked feta potatoes.
Pita Bread and Hummus: Serve warm pita bread alongside hummus for dipping; it’s perfect for scooping up those delicious potato bits!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Preparing Baked Feta Potatoes can be a delightful experience, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.
- Skipping the par-boiling step: This step is crucial for achieving crispy potatoes. Par-boiling ensures they cook evenly. Always par-boil for 6-8 minutes before roasting.
- Overcrowding the baking dish: If you pack the potatoes too tightly, they will steam instead of roast. Spread them out in a single layer for optimal crispiness.
- Using old or low-quality feta: Fresh, high-quality feta enhances flavor. Choose a good brand and check the expiration date before using.
- Neglecting seasoning: Proper seasoning elevates your dish. Don’t skimp on salt, pepper, and herbs; they bring out the best flavors in baked feta potatoes.
- Not adjusting lemon juice: Lemon adds brightness, but too much can overpower the dish. Start with half a lemon and adjust to taste.
- Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a wonderful aroma and taste. Always use fresh herbs instead of dried ones for garnish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Baked feta potatoes can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes
- Freeze in a sealed freezer bag or airtight container.
- They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat oven to 180C | 350F and bake until heated through for best texture.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for short intervals (30 seconds) until warm.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Baked Feta Potatoes that may help you.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! While feta is traditional, you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta for different flavors.
How do I make Baked Feta Potatoes vegan?
To make this dish vegan, substitute feta with tofu crumbles mixed with nutritional yeast and spices.
What other herbs can I use?
Feel free to use rosemary, parsley, or dill as alternatives to thyme and oregano for added flavor.
Can I prepare Baked Feta Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep ingredients ahead and store them separately until you’re ready to bake.
Final Thoughts
Baked Feta Potatoes are not only rich and flavorful but also versatile enough to complement any meal. You can customize them by adding vegetables or choosing different cheeses based on your preference. Try this recipe today for a comforting side dish that’s sure to impress!
Baked Feta Potatoes
Baked Feta Potatoes are a delectable side dish that effortlessly combines crispy roasted potatoes with creamy, tangy feta cheese. Inspired by the viral baked feta pasta trend, this recipe transforms humble potatoes into a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for any occasion—from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll create a dish that is not only easy to prepare but also impressive enough to wow your guests. Enhanced with fresh garlic, aromatic herbs, and a hint of lemon zest, these Baked Feta Potatoes offer a delightful flavor experience that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, salads, or as part of a Mediterranean feast.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 2 large baking potatoes
- 200g block of feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 head of garlic
- Fresh basil (for garnish)
- Lemon (for added brightness)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200C (390F).
- Wash and cube the potatoes, then par-boil them in water for 6-8 minutes. Drain and let them steam dry.
- Toss the par-boiled potatoes in olive oil, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper in a baking dish.
- Wrap the garlic head in aluminum foil with olive oil and place it in the baking dish.
- Roast the potatoes and garlic for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.
- Add feta cheese to the center of the dish, squeeze lemon juice over it, and return it to the oven for an additional 15 minutes.
- Squeeze out roasted garlic into a bowl, mash it, then mix it with the potatoes and additional lemon juice and fresh basil.
- Drizzle honey over the top before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
