Baked Feta Potatoes

These Baked Feta Potatoes are a delightful twist on the popular baked feta pasta trend. Perfect for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or any occasion, this recipe blends crispy roasted potatoes with rich and creamy feta cheese, creating a side dish that is both satisfying and flavorful. The combination of herbs, garlic, and a hint of lemon makes these baked feta potatoes stand out as a must-try dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dish in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The fusion of roasted garlic, herbs, and creamy feta delivers an explosion of taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Versatile Side Dish: These baked feta potatoes complement a variety of main dishes, making them suitable for any meal.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like potatoes and fresh herbs, they’re a guilt-free indulgence.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe serves four, making it ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Saucepan
• Foil
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and provides ample space for all your ingredients without overcrowding.
• Saucepan: This tool is perfect for par-boiling the potatoes before roasting, ensuring they become crispy while remaining tender inside.
• Foil: Wrapping garlic in foil helps retain moisture while roasting, resulting in perfectly caramelized cloves.
• Knife: A sharp knife allows for precise cutting of potatoes and garlic, making preparation quick and easy.

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.

Ingredients:
– 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, halved
– 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.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash and cube your baking potatoes.
2. Add them to a saucepan and cover with water.
3. Bring to a boil and par-boil the potatoes for 6–8 minutes (no more than 10).
4. Drain the potatoes and let them steam dry for about 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

1. Place the par-boiled potatoes into your baking dish.
2. Add dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and olive oil to the dish.
3. Stir well to coat all potatoes evenly.

Step 4: Roast Garlic

1. Drizzle olive oil over the head of garlic.
2. Wrap it in foil and add it to your baking dish with the potatoes.

Step 5: Roast Potatoes

Roast everything in the oven for about 30–40 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Add Feta Cheese

1. Remove the baking dish from the oven.
2. Take out the garlic carefully.
3. Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the dish (optional: dip one side into seasonings before flipping).
4. Squeeze half a lemon over the feta.

Step 7: Final Bake

Return everything to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes until heated through.

Step 8: Prepare Roasted Garlic

Once cool enough to handle, squeeze out roasted garlic from its skins using your fingers or a knife; mash it lightly and set aside.

Step 9: Combine Flavors

Add mashed garlic back into the potatoes along with juice from the other half of lemon and fresh basil. Gently mix everything together using a spoon to combine well.

Step 10: Serve

Drizzle honey over everything, sprinkle with shredded basil, top with red chili flakes, then serve warm. Enjoy your delicious baked feta potatoes!

How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes are a versatile side dish that can complement a variety of meals. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious dish that will delight your guests and family.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair the baked feta potatoes with juicy grilled chicken breasts for a satisfying and balanced meal.

As Part of a Mediterranean Platter

• Serve the potatoes alongside hummus, olives, and pita bread for a delightful Mediterranean-inspired feast.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish the baked feta potatoes with additional fresh herbs like parsley or dill to enhance their flavor and presentation.

With a Side Salad

• Accompany the potatoes with a light salad made of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber, dressed in olive oil and lemon juice for freshness.

As an Appetizer

• Cut the baked feta potatoes into smaller pieces and serve as an appetizer at gatherings, offering guests a tasty bite-sized treat.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Serve alongside roasted seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots for extra nutrition and color on your plate.

How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes

To achieve the best baked feta potatoes, follow these helpful tips that will enhance texture and flavor.

• Choose the right potatoes – Opt for starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds for fluffy interiors and crisp exteriors.
• Don’t skip par-boiling – Par-boiling helps create crispy edges by partially cooking the potatoes before roasting.
• Use fresh herbs – Incorporating fresh thyme or oregano enhances the flavor profile significantly compared to dried herbs.
• Adjust seasoning to taste – Feel free to tweak salt, pepper, or chili flakes according to your spice preference for optimal taste.
• Let garlic cool before handling – Cooling roasted garlic makes it easier to squeeze out of its skins without burning your fingers.
• Experiment with toppings – Try adding crumbled feta or other cheese varieties on top before serving for added richness.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes can steal the show but pairing them with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal even further. Here are some excellent options:

1. Grilled Zucchini – Lightly seasoned zucchini slices grilled until tender make an ideal summer side dish.
2. Lemon Herb Quinoa – Fluffy quinoa cooked with lemon juice and fresh herbs adds protein and bright flavors to your plate.
3. Roasted Broccoli – Crispy roasted broccoli drizzled with olive oil makes for a nutritious addition that balances out rich flavors.
4. Greek Salad – A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta brings brightness that pairs well with baked feta potatoes.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables create a hearty side that complements the richness of baked feta.
6. Carrot Ribbons Salad – Shaved carrots dressed in citrus vinaigrette add crunchiness and zest that contrast beautifully with creamy potatoes.
7. Cucumber Yogurt Dip – A cool tzatziki-style dip served on the side provides a refreshing element against warm baked potatoes.
8. Sautéed Spinach – Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic offers healthy greens that balance the richness of your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Baked Feta Potatoes turn out perfectly every time. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

• Skipping the par-boiling step: Par-boiling the potatoes ensures they cook evenly and achieve a crispy texture. Don’t skip this step for the best results.
• Not using enough seasoning: Under-seasoned potatoes can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with herbs and spices to enhance taste.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: If you cram too many potatoes in one dish, they may steam instead of roast. Give them space to crisp up nicely.
• Neglecting the garlic: Roasting garlic adds depth and sweetness. Make sure to include it, as it enhances the overall flavor of your dish.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds brightness to your Baked Feta Potatoes. Don’t overlook adding it at the end for maximum freshness.
• Serving immediately without resting: Allowing your dish to rest for a few minutes helps flavors meld together. Enjoy better-tasting potatoes by being patient.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
• Best consumed within 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180C | 350F, spread onto a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently so they don’t dry out.
• Stovetop: Sauté on medium heat with a splash of olive oil for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making these delicious Baked Feta Potatoes, here are some commonly asked questions.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?

Yes, while feta adds a unique flavor, you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta for different tastes.

How do I know when my potatoes are done?

Look for golden-brown, crispy edges on the potatoes. A fork should easily pierce them when cooked through.

Can I customize the herbs in Baked Feta Potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match herbs like rosemary or parsley according to your preference.

Is there a way to make this recipe vegan?

For a vegan version, substitute feta with tofu or a dairy-free cheese alternative, and omit honey or replace it with agave syrup.

How can I add more vegetables?

You can toss in cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini along with the potatoes before roasting for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

These Baked Feta Potatoes are not only rich and flavorful but also versatile, making them an excellent side dish for various meals. You can customize them by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate; try this delightful recipe today!