Baked Feta Potatoes
These baked feta potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic potato dish, inspired by the viral baked feta pasta trend. With crispy roasted potatoes enveloped in creamy baked feta cheese, they make a perfect side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, enjoying a cozy night in, or looking for a unique addition to your holiday table, these potatoes will impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of roasted garlic, herbs, and feta creates a delicious depth of flavor that elevates simple potatoes.
- Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
- Versatile Side Dish: These baked feta potatoes pair wonderfully with meats, salads, or can even stand alone as a satisfying vegetarian option.
- Healthier Comfort Food: While indulgent, they are made with wholesome ingredients that keep the dish balanced and nutritious.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Their unique flavor profile makes them appealing to both adults and kids alike.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather essential tools before you start. Having everything ready will help streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Oven mitts
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and allows the potatoes to crisp perfectly.
- Saucepan: Used for par-boiling the potatoes, this tool helps achieve that tender texture before roasting.
- Knife: A sharp knife allows for clean cuts when preparing your ingredients.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and herbs.
Ingredients
These baked feta potatoes feature simple yet flavorful ingredients that create an irresistible side dish.
- 2 large baking potatoes
- 1 200g block of feta
- 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
- 1 head of garlic (top cut off)
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup | 20g fresh basil
How to Make Baked Feta Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 200C | 390F. This step is crucial for achieving crispy roasted potatoes.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and cube your large baking potatoes. Add them to a saucepan filled with water and bring to a boil:
1. Par-boil the potatoes for about 6–8 minutes (no more than 10).
2. Drain them and let them steam dry for around 2–3 minutes.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
Add the par-boiled potatoes to your baking dish. Incorporate dried thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and olive oil:
Stir well to ensure all potatoes are coated evenly with seasoning.
Step 4: Roast the Potatoes
Roast your seasoned potatoes in the oven:
Bake for about 30–40 minutes until they are golden brown and almost fully cooked.
Step 5: Add Feta and Lemon
Take your block of feta cheese and place it in the center of the baking tray:
Dip one side in the seasonings before flipping it over.
Squeeze half of your lemon over the feta.
Step 6: Prepare Garlic
Carefully remove the garlic from the baking dish after roasting:
1. Allow it to cool slightly.
2. Squeeze out the garlic from its skins into a small bowl.
3. Mash it lightly using the flat side of your knife.
Step 7: Final Roasting Phase
Return your baking dish to the oven:
Bake for an additional time of about 15 minutes until everything is beautifully combined.
Step 8: Combine Flavors
Mix together your mashed garlic and juice from the other half of the lemon into the roasted potatoes:
Gently fold in fresh basil leaves using a spoon to combine with baked feta.
Step 9: Drizzle Honey
Finish off by drizzling honey over your dish along with shredded basil for added flavor.
Step 10: Serve
Serve these delightful baked feta potatoes warm and enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes
Baked feta potatoes are a delicious and versatile side dish that pairs well with many meals. They can be served in various ways to complement your main course or enjoyed on their own.
As a Tangy Salad Base
- Serve with a fresh green salad for a vibrant and healthy meal.
- Top with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette.
With Grilled Meats
- Pair with grilled chicken or steak to enhance the flavors of your protein.
- The creamy feta and roasted potatoes balance perfectly with smoky meats.
As Part of a Mezze Platter
- Include baked feta potatoes on a Greek-inspired mezze platter.
- Add olives, hummus, and pita bread for a delightful sharing experience.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with additional fresh basil or parsley for an aromatic touch.
- A sprinkle of lemon zest adds brightness to the dish.
With a Side of Yogurt Sauce
- Serve alongside tzatziki or garlic yogurt sauce for extra flavor.
- The coolness of the sauce contrasts nicely with the warm potatoes.
How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes
To ensure your baked feta potatoes turn out perfectly every time, follow these tips for optimal results.
- Choose the right potatoes: Use starchy varieties like Russets for a fluffy texture.
- Par-boil correctly: Don’t overcook the potatoes; par-boiling should be just enough to soften them slightly.
- Season generously: Make sure to coat the potatoes well in olive oil and spices for maximum flavor.
- Monitor roasting time: Keep an eye on the potatoes during roasting to achieve that perfect golden crispiness.
- Mix gently: When combining the garlic mixture and basil, stir delicately to avoid breaking up the potatoes too much.
- Finish with fresh ingredients: Adding fresh herbs and lemon juice right before serving elevates the dish’s taste.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes
Baked feta potatoes make an excellent addition to any meal. Here are some side dishes that pair wonderfully with them:
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds crunch and freshness.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts provide a savory contrast.
- Greek Salad: This light salad enhances the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet glazed carrots complement the salty feta perfectly.
- Cucumber Dill Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad offers a cool touch next to warm potatoes.
- Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach brings vibrant color and nutrients to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making baked feta potatoes can be simple and rewarding, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Ignoring potato size: Using unevenly sized potatoes can lead to inconsistent cooking. Cut potatoes into similar-sized cubes to ensure even roasting.
- Skipping the par-boil step: Par-boiling is crucial for achieving crispy textures. Don’t skip it; it helps the potatoes cook through while also crisping up nicely.
- Overcrowding the baking dish: If you pack too many potatoes in one dish, they will steam instead of roast. Give them space to breathe for that perfect crunch.
- Not seasoning properly: Feta cheese adds flavor, but don’t forget to season the potatoes well. Use enough salt and spices for a well-rounded taste.
- Forgetting about the garlic: Garlic adds depth and sweetness, so be sure to include it. Roasting enhances its flavor, making your dish even better.
- Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a bright touch and complements the feta beautifully. Don’t skip this last step for maximum flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store baked feta potatoes in an airtight container.
- They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes
- Place cooled baked feta potatoes in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Freeze them for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 180C | 350F and reheat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until hot, stirring occasionally to evenly distribute heat.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about baked feta potatoes, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While feta adds a unique flavor, cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta could work well too.
How can I make my Baked Feta Potatoes spicier?
To spice things up, add more red chili flakes or even some chopped fresh jalapeños before roasting.
What should I serve with Baked Feta Potatoes?
These make a great side dish! Pair them with grilled chicken or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I customize Baked Feta Potatoes?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or different herbs for a personalized touch.
Final Thoughts
Baked feta potatoes are not just delicious; they bring comfort and warmth to any meal. Their versatility allows you to customize them based on your preferences. Try adding different spices or vegetables to make this dish truly your own!
Baked Feta Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Baked Feta Potatoes are a deliciously creamy and savory twist on the classic potato dish, inspired by the popular baked feta pasta trend. These golden, crispy potatoes are tossed with aromatic herbs and topped with a block of feta cheese that melts into a rich, tangy sauce as they bake. Perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or festive gatherings, this versatile side dish is sure to impress everyone at your table. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors—creamy feta, crispy potatoes, and hints of roasted garlic and fresh basil. Easy to prepare and sure to be a crowd-pleaser, Baked Feta Potatoes will quickly become a go-to recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 large baking potatoes
- 200g block of feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 tsp red chili flakes
- 1 head of garlic (top cut off)
- 1 lemon (quartered)
- 1 tbsp honey
- 20g fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200C (390F).
- Wash and cube the potatoes, then par-boil in water for about 6–8 minutes. Drain and let them steam dry.
- In a baking dish, toss the par-boiled potatoes with olive oil, thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and chili flakes.
- Roast for about 30–40 minutes until golden brown.
- Place the feta in the center of the dish; squeeze lemon juice over it.
- Add the garlic head to roast alongside.
- Bake for an additional 15 minutes until everything is combined beautifully.
- Mash the roasted garlic and mix it with lemon juice before folding in with the potatoes and fresh basil.
- Drizzle honey over the top and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
