Baked Feta Potatoes

These Baked Feta Potatoes are an irresistible dish that brings together crispy roasted potatoes and creamy baked feta cheese. Perfect for any occasion, they serve as a delightful side dish or a hearty addition to your meal. The blend of herbs and lemon enhances the flavors, making this recipe stand out amongst other potato dishes. Enjoy them at family gatherings, dinner parties, or just as a comforting weeknight treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of feta, garlic, and herbs creates a rich taste that elevates simple potatoes to a whole new level.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Versatile Side Dish: These baked feta potatoes pair well with various main courses, from grilled chicken to vegetarian options.
• Healthier Indulgence: Enjoy the creamy goodness of feta without the heaviness of traditional creamy side dishes.
• Perfect for Sharing: Serve this dish family-style and watch it disappear at your next gathering!

Tools and Preparation

To make these baked feta potatoes, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Saucepan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of your potatoes and feta.
• Saucepan: This is crucial for par-boiling the potatoes to achieve that perfect crispy texture.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and safe.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for cutting.

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
• 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 Feta:

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

For Garnish:

• 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 essential for achieving perfectly roasted potatoes.

Step 2: Par-Boil the Potatoes

Wash and cube your potatoes. Add them to a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and par-boil for 6-8 minutes (do not exceed 10 minutes). Drain and allow them to steam dry for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

Add the par-boiled potatoes to your baking dish. Mix in dried thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Stir well to ensure all pieces are evenly coated.

Step 4: Roast the Potatoes

Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes until golden brown and almost fully cooked.

Step 5: Add Feta & Lemon Juice

Place the feta cheese in the middle of the baking tray (you can dip one side into seasonings before flipping). Squeeze half of one lemon over it.

Step 6: Prepare Garlic

Remove the garlic from the baking dish. Once cooled slightly, squeeze out the softened garlic from its skins and mash it with a knife. Set aside.

Step 7: Final Roasting

Return the dish to the oven for another 15 minutes until everything is nicely browned.

Step 8: Combine Ingredients

Stir together the mashed garlic mixture and juice from the other half of lemon into the roasted potatoes along with fresh basil. Use a spoon to gently mix everything together.

Step 9: Drizzle Honey & Garnish

Finish by drizzling honey over your baked feta potatoes and topping with shredded basil.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Your delicious baked feta potatoes are ready! Serve warm as a delightful side dish or enjoy them on their own.

How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes are a delightful side dish that pairs wonderfully with various meals. Their rich flavor and crispy texture make them a versatile addition to any table setting.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken complements the savory feta and crispy potatoes beautifully, creating a satisfying meal.

Alongside Roasted Vegetables

• Pairing these potatoes with roasted seasonal vegetables adds color and nutrition, balancing the dish perfectly.

As Part of a Mediterranean Platter

• Serve baked feta potatoes on a platter with hummus, olives, and pita bread for an enjoyable Mediterranean feast.

With Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad or Greek salad adds freshness and lightness, contrasting nicely with the hearty potatoes.

How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes

To achieve the best version of baked feta potatoes, consider these tips for enhancing flavor and texture.

• Use fresh herbs – Adding fresh thyme or oregano can elevate the taste beyond dried spices.
• Preheat your oven – Ensuring your oven is at the right temperature before cooking helps achieve crispy potatoes.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking dish – Spreading the potatoes out allows them to roast evenly and become crispy.
• Experiment with cheese – Try using different types of cheese like goat cheese for a twist on flavors.
• Adjust seasoning to taste – Feel free to modify salt and spices based on your preference for heat or flavor intensity.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes pair well with several side dishes, enhancing your meal while keeping it interesting. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Lemon Chicken – Marinated in lemon juice and herbs, this chicken is juicy and flavorful, perfect alongside baked feta potatoes.
2. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad – Packed with veggies and dressed in olive oil, this salad brings freshness that complements the richness of the potatoes.
3. Roasted Broccoli – Tossed in olive oil and garlic, roasted broccoli adds crunch and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
4. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Filled with rice, beans, and spices, these vibrant peppers offer a hearty addition to your meal.
5. Zucchini Noodles – Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles provide a low-carb alternative that pairs well with the rich flavors of baked feta.
6. Lentil Soup – A warm bowl of lentil soup brings comfort and pairs harmoniously with baked feta potatoes for a complete meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making baked feta potatoes, several common mistakes can affect the dish’s outcome. Here are some to watch out for:

• Not par-boiling potatoes: Par-boiling helps achieve a crispy texture. Skipping this step may result in undercooked potatoes.
• Using cold ingredients: Ensure your feta and other ingredients are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can hinder the baking process and texture.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: If potatoes are too close together, they will steam instead of roast. Give them space for even cooking and crispiness.
• Ignoring seasoning: Proper seasoning is crucial. Don’t forget to season both the potatoes and the feta well for maximum flavor.
• Not adjusting oven temperature: Every oven is different. Keep an eye on your potatoes and adjust cooking time or temperature as needed to avoid burning.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Best consumed within 1-2 months for best quality.

Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 180C | 350F and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about baked feta potatoes:

Can I use different cheese instead of feta?

Yes, you can experiment with cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta, but the flavor profile will change significantly.

How do I make my baked feta potatoes spicy?

Add more red chili flakes or include diced jalapeños before roasting to amp up the heat.

Can I add vegetables to my baked feta potatoes?

Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini complement this dish well.

What do I serve with baked feta potatoes?

They pair nicely with grilled chicken, lamb, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

How can I customize my baked feta potatoes?

Consider adding herbs like rosemary or parsley, or mix in other toppings like olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Baked feta potatoes are a delightful side dish that balances creamy feta with crispy potatoes. Their rich flavors make them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or additional veggies!