Baked Feta Potatoes

These Baked Feta Potatoes are an irresistible side dish that combines crispy roasted potatoes with creamy baked feta cheese. Perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and simple preparation. The combination of herbs, garlic, and lemon elevates the potatoes, making them a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of herbs and baked feta creates a savory dish that complements any main course.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal hands-on time, you can whip these up without fuss.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pair them with chicken, beef, or fish for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual dinner, these potatoes fit right in.
• Healthier Comfort Food: Enjoy the comfort of baked cheese without compromising on nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking more efficient and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make Baked Feta Potatoes:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Saucepan
• Knife
• Foil
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and browning of the potatoes.
• Saucepan: Essential for par-boiling the potatoes to achieve the perfect texture before roasting.
• Knife: Useful for chopping ingredients and preparing the garlic.
• Foil: Keeps the garlic moist while it roasts, enhancing its flavor.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for mixing ingredients without damaging your baking dish.

Ingredients

For these Baked Feta Potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

Main 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

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 (no more than 10), then drain and allow them to steam dry for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

Add the potatoes to your baking dish along with thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Stir well to coat evenly.

Step 4: Roast Garlic

Drizzle olive oil over the head of garlic, wrap it in foil, and place it in the baking dish with the potatoes.

Step 5: Roast until Crispy

Roast the potatoes and garlic for about 30 – 40 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Add Feta

Remove from oven; take out garlic. Place feta in the middle of the tray (dipping one side in seasonings helps). Squeeze half of the lemon over it.

Step 7: Final Bake

Return dish to oven for another 15 minutes.

Step 8: Prepare Garlic

Once cooled, squeeze garlic out of its skins and mash it using a knife. Set aside.

Step 9: Combine Ingredients

Mix mashed garlic (use whole head or just 1-2 tsp for milder taste) back into potatoes along with juice from remaining lemon half and fresh basil. Fold gently.

Step 10: Drizzle Honey

Drizzle honey over everything and sprinkle red chili flakes on top before serving.

Step 11: Serve

Enjoy your delicious Baked Feta Potatoes!

How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes are a delightful dish that can elevate any meal. Their creamy texture and rich flavors pair well with various options, making them versatile for different occasions.

With Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken adds a juicy protein element that complements the creamy feta and crispy potatoes beautifully.

As a Standalone Dish

• Serve these baked feta potatoes as a light meal by themselves, topped with extra herbs or a sprinkle of chili flakes for added spice.

With Fresh Salad

• Pairing with a fresh salad, such as a Greek salad, balances the richness of the potatoes with crisp vegetables and tangy dressing.

Alongside Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutritional value to your plate while enhancing the overall flavor profile.

With Dipping Sauces

• Serve with tzatziki or a yogurt-based dip on the side for an added layer of flavor that complements the baked feta.

How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes

Achieving the best baked feta potatoes requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure delicious results every time.

• Choose the right potatoes: Opt for starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold for maximum fluffiness inside and crispiness outside.
• Par-boil correctly: Par-boiling helps achieve that perfect tender center. Be sure not to overcook them before roasting.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and oregano will enhance the flavor. Dried herbs are fine but fresh ones provide a more vibrant taste.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking dish: Leave space between potatoes to allow for even cooking and crisping.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or adjust the chili flakes based on your heat preference.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the potatoes to sit for a few minutes after baking lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes shine when paired with complementary side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Marinated grilled chicken drizzled with lemon juice enhances the Mediterranean vibe of your meal.
2. Roasted Mediterranean Vegetables: A mix of eggplant, bell peppers, and zucchini seasoned with olive oil brings color and nutrition.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and parsley is refreshing alongside hearty potatoes.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds crunch and vibrant color while being easy to prepare.
5. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover feta juices from your plate.
6. Charred Corn on the Cob: Sweet charred corn provides a deliciously sweet contrast that pairs nicely with savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make small mistakes when preparing Baked Feta Potatoes. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Overcooking the Potatoes: Par-boiling potatoes for too long can lead to mushy results. Aim for 6-8 minutes, then drain and let them steam dry.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Skipping the seasoning can result in bland potatoes. Ensure each potato is well-coated with olive oil, salt, and herbs before roasting.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Cooking in a cold oven can prevent achieving that desired crispiness. Always preheat your oven to 200C | 390F before starting.
• Using Cold Feta: Adding feta straight from the fridge can affect how it bakes. Allow it to come to room temperature for even melting and flavor infusion.
• Underestimating Garlic Flavor: Roasting garlic softens its intensity. Be sure to include all the roasted garlic for rich flavor, or adjust based on your preference.
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and freshness. Don’t skip this step; sprinkle it generously over the dish before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 180C | 350F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick pan and heat gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Baked Feta Potatoes?

Baked Feta Potatoes are crispy roasted potatoes tossed with creamy baked feta cheese, herbs, and spices, creating a rich side dish that’s full of flavor.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! If you prefer, you can substitute feta with other cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta for a different taste profile.

How do I customize my Baked Feta Potatoes?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or bell peppers alongside the potatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

What should I serve with Baked Feta Potatoes?

These potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats or can be served as part of a vegetarian meal alongside fresh salads.

How can I make this dish vegan?

To make this dish vegan, substitute feta with a plant-based feta alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.

Final Thoughts

Baked Feta Potatoes offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors that will elevate any meal. They are not only delicious but also versatile—perfect as a side dish or even as a main when paired with fresh veggies. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients!