Baked Feta Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor, these Baked Feta Potatoes are just the ticket! Inspired by the viral baked feta pasta trend, this recipe transforms humble potatoes into something truly special. Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, each bite is a delightful combination of rich feta and aromatic herbs. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, where everyone will be coming back for seconds!

What I love most about these Baked Feta Potatoes is how easy they are to whip up. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress your loved ones. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a favorite at your dinner table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can have these baked feta potatoes ready in under an hour, making them a fantastic option for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy feta combined with crispy potatoes makes this dish appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the potatoes in advance and simply pop them in the oven when it’s time to eat.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of herbs, roasted garlic, and honey elevates these potatoes to a whole new level of deliciousness.
• Versatile Side Dish: These baked feta potatoes pair wonderfully with various main courses, from grilled vegetables to hearty salads.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These baked feta potatoes come together with simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Potatoes

• 2 large baking potatoes
• 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

For the Feta and Garlic

• 1 200g block of feta
• 1 head of garlic (top cut off)
• 1 lemon, halved

For Finishing Touches

• 1 tbsp honey
• 1/4 cup | 20g fresh basil

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with some easy variations:

• Add Some Veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
• Cheese Swap: If you’re not a fan of feta, try goat cheese or a non-dairy cheese alternative.
• Herb Change-Up: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or parsley to suit your taste preferences.
• Spice It Up: For those who love heat, add more red chili flakes or even some diced jalapeños before baking.

How to Make Baked Feta Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 200C | 390F. This is an important step because it ensures that your potatoes will roast perfectly crispy.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and cube your baking potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and par-boil for about 6-8 minutes—this gives them a head start on cooking! After draining, let them steam dry for about 2-3 minutes. This step helps achieve that golden crispiness later!

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

In a baking dish, combine the par-boiled potatoes with olive oil, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat every potato piece evenly with those delicious seasonings.

Step 4: Roast with Garlic

Drizzle a little olive oil over the head of garlic, wrap it in foil, and add it to the baking dish with the seasoned potatoes. Roast everything together for about 30-40 minutes until the potatoes are golden brown.

Step 5: Add Feta and Lemon

When the potatoes are almost done roasting, remove them from the oven and take out the garlic. Nestle the block of feta into the middle of the tray (don’t forget to flip it over in those tasty seasonings!). Squeeze half a lemon over everything before returning it to bake for another 15 minutes.

Step 6: Mash Garlic & Mix It All Together

Once cooled slightly, squeeze out the roasted garlic from its skins into a bowl and mash it up. Add this flavorful garlic along with juice from the remaining half lemon back into the potatoes along with fresh basil. Gently mix everything together—this is where all those flavors come alive!

Step 7: Final Touches & Serve

Drizzle honey over your beautifully mixed Baked Feta Potatoes and sprinkle on those vibrant red chili flakes. Serve hot and enjoy every bite!

I hope you enjoy making these delicious Baked Feta Potatoes as much as I do! They’re bound to become a regular feature at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes are a delightful side dish that can impress anyone at your table! Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose the right potatoes: Opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They become fluffy on the inside while achieving that coveted crispy exterior.
• Don’t skip par-boiling: Par-boiling the potatoes helps them cook faster in the oven and ensures they become tender, making it easier to achieve that golden-crisp finish.
• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. Adding herbs like rosemary or dill can give a unique twist to the flavor profile of your baked feta potatoes.
• Use fresh feta for best results: Fresh feta cheese provides a creamier texture and richer flavor compared to crumbled varieties. Look for a block of feta packed in brine for optimal taste.
• Let it rest before serving: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This resting period helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making each bite even more delicious!

How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes

Serving baked feta potatoes can be an art! With just a few simple touches, you can elevate this delightful dish and make it truly special.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a vibrant color and fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich feta.
• Toasted pine nuts: Adding a handful of toasted pine nuts gives a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the creamy feta perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and a light vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with baked feta potatoes, balancing their richness with freshness.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add smoky flavors and textures that harmonize beautifully with the crispy potatoes.
• Quinoa Tabbouleh: This light tabbouleh made with quinoa instead of bulgur wheat offers protein-packed nutrition along with bright herbs that contrast nicely with the dish’s richness.
• Roasted Chickpeas: Crunchy roasted chickpeas seasoned with spices provide an extra layer of texture and flavor that complements every bite of baked feta potatoes.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable meal centered around your baked feta potatoes! Enjoy sharing this delightful dish with family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

These baked feta potatoes are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the baked feta potatoes to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the potatoes cool down fully.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Note that the texture may change slightly once thawed.

Reheating

• To reheat, place the potatoes in a preheated oven at 180C | 350F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally until warmed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making baked feta potatoes.

Can I use different types of cheese instead of feta for baked feta potatoes?

While feta gives this dish its unique flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like ricotta or goat cheese. However, it may alter the taste and texture.

How do I know when my baked feta potatoes are done?

Your baked feta potatoes should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. You can easily pierce them with a fork to check if they’re tender inside.

What varieties of potatoes work best for baked feta potatoes?

Starchy or all-purpose potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best for achieving the ideal balance of crispiness and fluffiness.

Can I make baked feta potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare these baked feta potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer; just follow the storage guidelines above!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making these baked feta potatoes as I did! They’re rich, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re having a cozy night in or looking to impress your guests, this recipe has got you covered. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your experiences with me—I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out!