Baked Feta Potatoes

These baked feta potatoes are a delightful twist on a classic side dish, perfect for any occasion. Inspired by the viral baked feta pasta trend, this recipe combines crispy roasted potatoes with creamy baked feta cheese for a rich and flavorful experience. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a family meal, or looking for an easy weeknight side, these baked feta potatoes will surely impress with their bold flavors and simple preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of roasted garlic, herbs, and feta creates a deliciously rich flavor profile that elevates any meal.
• Versatile side dish: These potatoes pair well with various main courses like grilled meats, fish, or vegetarian dishes.
• Crowd-pleaser: Their unique taste and beautiful presentation make them a hit at gatherings and special occasions.
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, these baked feta potatoes offer nutritional benefits without sacrificing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best baked feta potatoes, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Saucepan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good-quality baking dish ensures even cooking and helps achieve that perfect crispy texture.
• Saucepan: Using a saucepan is essential for par-boiling the potatoes before roasting; it helps them cook evenly.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to cube the potatoes and cut the garlic effectively.
• Mixing spoon: A sturdy mixing spoon helps in combining all ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.

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 Flavoring

• 1 head of garlic (top cut off)
• 1 lemon, quartered
• 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 to ensure it’s hot enough for roasting.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and cube your baking potatoes. Place them in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and par-boil for 6-8 minutes. Drain them well and let them steam dry for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

In your baking dish, add the par-boiled potatoes along with thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle with olive oil, then stir to coat evenly.

Step 4: Roast Until Crispy

Roast the seasoned potatoes in the oven for about 30 – 40 minutes until they are golden brown and almost fully cooked.

Step 5: Add Feta Cheese

Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the tray. Optionally, dip one side of it into seasonings before flipping it over. Squeeze half of your lemon over the cheese.

Step 6: Roast Garlic

Remove the head of garlic, allowing it to cool slightly. Squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves from their skins and mash them gently with your knife; set aside.

Step 7: Final Roasting Phase

Return your baking dish to the oven for another 15 minutes to let everything meld together beautifully.

Step 8: Combine Flavors

After roasting, take out your dish. Stir in the mashed garlic mixture along with the juice from the remaining half of your lemon. Gently mix this into your roasted potatoes using a spoon.

Step 9: Finish with Honey & Basil

Drizzle honey over everything and add shredded fresh basil on top for an extra touch of flavor.

Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!

Your baked feta potatoes are now ready! Serve warm as a delightful side dish that everyone will love!

How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. Their creamy feta and crispy texture make them versatile for various serving options.

As a Standalone Dish

• These baked feta potatoes can shine on their own, served with a simple green salad for a light meal.

Paired with Grilled Meats

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or lamb to complement the rich flavors of the feta and herbs.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pair with seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a colorful, nutritious plate.

On a Bed of Greens

• Place the baked feta potatoes on a bed of arugula or spinach, drizzled with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for an extra flavor boost.

As Part of a Mediterranean Platter

• Include them in a Mediterranean spread, alongside hummus, olives, and pita bread for a complete experience.

How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes

Perfecting baked feta potatoes is all about technique. Follow these tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use the right potatoes: Opt for starchy or all-purpose potatoes like Russets for fluffiness.
• Par-boil carefully: Par-boiling helps achieve that crispy outer layer; don’t overcook them!
• Season generously: Coat the potatoes well with olive oil and spices for maximum flavor.
• Bake at high heat: Make sure your oven is hot enough; this will help create that perfect golden crust.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding different herbs or spices based on your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes pair wonderfully with many dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, grilled chicken complements the richness of the feta perfectly.
2. Lamb Chops: The savory taste of lamb works beautifully with baked feta potatoes’ creamy texture.
3. Mediterranean Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives to balance out the dish.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts add crunch and a slightly bitter note that contrasts well.
5. Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic provides a healthy green side that pairs nicely.
6. Tzatziki Sauce: This cool yogurt-based sauce adds freshness and complements the baked feta flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making baked feta potatoes, a few common mistakes can prevent you from achieving the perfect dish. Here are some tips to steer clear of these errors.

• Skipping the Par-Boil – Par-boiling helps cook the potatoes evenly and ensures they become crispy when roasted. Always par-boil for 6-8 minutes before baking.

• Neglecting Seasoning – Seasoning your potatoes is essential for flavor. Use salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme and oregano to elevate your dish.

• Overcrowding the Baking Dish – Crowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Spread the potatoes out in a single layer for optimal crispiness.

• Not Using Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and quality feta cheese make a significant difference. Always opt for fresh basil and good-quality feta for the best taste.

• Ignoring Cooking Times – Keep an eye on cooking times. Every oven is different, so adjust as necessary to achieve golden, crispy potatoes.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store baked feta potatoes in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes

• Allow them to cool completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag; they will last up to 2 months.

Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 180C | 350F and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Use medium power and heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil until crispy again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about baked feta potatoes that might help you further.

What are Baked Feta Potatoes?

Baked feta potatoes are a delicious side dish made by roasting cubed potatoes with feta cheese and herbs until crispy and flavorful.

Can I use other cheeses instead of feta?

Absolutely! While feta adds a unique flavor, you can experiment with goat cheese or even mozzarella for different textures and tastes.

How do I customize my Baked Feta Potatoes?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition. Spices like paprika or rosemary also work well!

Are Baked Feta Potatoes vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products. It’s perfect for vegetarians looking for hearty side dishes.

Final Thoughts

Baked feta potatoes offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures that can brighten any meal. Their versatility allows you to customize them according to your preferences, making them suitable for various occasions. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the rich tastes that come together effortlessly!