Baked Feta Potatoes
These Baked Feta Potatoes are more than just a side dish; they offer a delightful blend of crispy potatoes and creamy baked feta cheese. Perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners, this dish brings a burst of flavor to any table. The combination of herbs, garlic, and a hint of lemon elevates the humble potato into something truly special. You’ll find that this recipe is not only easy to make but can also be enjoyed by everyone, making it a must-try for any food lover.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Twist: The creamy baked feta adds a rich dimension to the potatoes.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe suits all cooking skill levels.
- Versatile Dish: Pairs well with grilled meats, salads, or can stand alone as a vegetarian snack.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and reheat for quick lunches or dinners.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering or a casual family dinner, these baked feta potatoes shine.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Spoon for mixing
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even roasting of the potatoes and feta for perfect texture.
- Saucepan: Essential for par-boiling the potatoes to achieve that crispy finish.
- Knife: A sharp knife is key for cutting the potatoes accurately and handling garlic easily.
- Spoon for mixing: Helps combine flavors gently without mashing the potatoes.
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.
For the Potatoes
- 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
For the Garlic and Lemon Flavoring
- 1 head of garlic (top cut off)
- 1 lemon, quartered
For Finishing Touches
- 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 ensures that your baked feta potatoes cook evenly from start to finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and cube your potatoes. Add them to a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and par-boil the potatoes for 6-8 minutes (no more than 10). Drain and let them steam dry for 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
Add the par-boiled potatoes to your baking dish. Sprinkle over thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and drizzle with olive oil. Stir them gently to coat evenly.
Step 4: Roast Until Crispy
Roast the seasoned potatoes in the oven for about 30-40 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside but tender inside.
Step 5: Add Feta and Lemon
Place the block of feta in the center of the tray. Optionally dip one side into seasonings before flipping it over. Squeeze over half a lemon for added zest.
Step 6: Roast with Garlic
Remove the garlic from its skin after roasting it alongside the potatoes. Mash it using a knife flat against it. Set aside once cooled.
Step 7: Final Roasting Phase
Return your dish to the oven for another 15 minutes, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 8: Combine All Flavors
Stir in mashed garlic and juice from the remaining lemon half into your roasted potato mix along with fresh basil. Use a spoon carefully so as not to break apart your crispy potatoes too much.
Step 9: Drizzle Honey
Finish off by drizzling honey over your dish along with some shredded basil for an aromatic touch.
Step 10: Serve
Your delicious baked feta potatoes are ready! Serve warm and enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes
Baked feta potatoes are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. They pair well with various foods, making them a versatile addition to your dining table.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Grilled zucchini and bell peppers add a smoky flavor that complements the creamy feta.
Alongside Roasted Chicken
- These potatoes make an excellent companion to juicy roasted chicken, enhancing the overall meal experience.
As Part of a Mediterranean Platter
- Serve them with olives, hummus, and pita bread for a flavorful Mediterranean feast.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with extra basil or parsley for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
With a Side Salad
- A simple mixed green salad balances the richness of the baked feta potatoes.
How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes
To achieve the best baked feta potatoes, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose the right potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russets yield a fluffier texture when roasted.
- Don’t skip par-boiling: This step ensures your potatoes become crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil or oregano enhances flavor better than dried herbs.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust chili flakes or add smoked paprika for an extra kick.
- Let them rest: Allowing the baked feta potatoes to sit for a few minutes after baking helps flavors meld together.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes
Baked feta potatoes shine on their own but can be even better when served with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options.
- Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta that pairs perfectly.
- Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based sauce adds creaminess and tangy flavor, enhancing your meal.
- Lemon Herb Quinoa: A light grain that balances out the richness of the potatoes.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts bring an earthy note that works well alongside baked feta potatoes.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filled with grains and veggies, they make for a hearty pairing.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds texture and is perfect for soaking up any leftover juices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making baked feta potatoes, it’s easy to miss a step or two. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Overcooking the Potatoes: Par-boiling for too long can make your potatoes mushy. Aim for 6-8 minutes, no more than 10 minutes, for the perfect texture.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Skipping the seasonings can lead to bland potatoes. Ensure you coat them well with olive oil, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper before roasting.
- Skipping the Garlic: Forgetting the garlic can reduce flavor depth. Roast it alongside the potatoes for a sweet, caramelized taste that enhances the dish.
- Not Using Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs lack the freshness of using fresh basil. Try to use fresh basil for a vibrant flavor boost when serving.
- Adding Honey Too Early: Adding honey before baking can cause it to burn. Drizzle it over the potatoes just before serving for a delightful sweetness.
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 freezer-safe containers.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 180C | 350F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1 minute until warmed, stirring between intervals.
- Stovetop: Sauté over medium heat with a splash of olive oil until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about baked feta potatoes, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.
What are Baked Feta Potatoes?
Baked feta potatoes are roasted potatoes tossed with creamy baked feta cheese, herbs, and spices, resulting in a rich and flavorful side dish.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! While feta is traditional, you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta for different flavors and textures in your baked feta potatoes.
How do I know when my potatoes are done?
Your baked feta potatoes should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while being tender inside when fully cooked.
Can I customize my Baked Feta Potatoes recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
Final Thoughts
These baked feta potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal. Their rich flavors combined with crispy textures make them irresistible. Plus, they offer plenty of customization options—add your favorite herbs or veggies! Try this recipe today for a comforting side that everyone will love!
Baked Feta Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Baked Feta Potatoes are a delightful and flavorful side dish that transforms simple potatoes into a culinary delight. This recipe features crispy roasted potatoes paired with creamy baked feta cheese, enhanced by aromatic herbs, garlic, and a hint of lemon. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. They can be served alongside grilled meats, tossed in salads, or enjoyed on their own as a satisfying vegetarian option. Elevate your dining experience with this comforting and delicious dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 large baking potatoes
- 200g block of feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 head of garlic
- 1 lemon, quartered
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200C (390F).
- Wash and cube the potatoes, then par-boil in salted water for 6-8 minutes. Drain and let steam dry.
- In a baking dish, combine the potatoes with olive oil, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 30-40 minutes until golden and crispy.
- Add feta cheese and lemon quarters to the dish; continue roasting for another 15 minutes.
- Mix in mashed roasted garlic and fresh basil before serving.
- Drizzle with honey just before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
