Baked Feta Potatoes

These baked feta potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic side dish. Inspired by the viral baked feta pasta trend, this recipe combines crispy roasted potatoes with creamy, tangy baked feta cheese. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes are sure to impress. The harmonious blend of flavors, along with the ease of preparation, makes this dish a standout addition to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of roasted garlic, feta cheese, and fresh herbs creates a burst of flavor that enhances any meal.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dish without stress.
• Versatile Side Dish: These baked feta potatoes pair well with various main courses, making them suitable for any dining occasion.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like fresh basil and olive oil, this recipe is not only tasty but nutritious too.
• Visually Appealing: The vibrant colors and textures make these potatoes a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Tools and Preparation

To make these baked feta potatoes efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of the potatoes.
• Saucepan: Used for par-boiling the potatoes, ensuring they cook evenly in the oven.
• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting vegetables and herbs accurately.
• Spoon: A good spoon helps to mix ingredients without damaging the delicate feta cheese.

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.

Potatoes

• 2 large baking potatoes

Feta Mixture

• 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

Other Ingredients

• 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. This ensures even cooking from the start.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and cube your baking potatoes. Add them to a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and par-boil for 6-8 minutes (not more than 10), then drain them. Allow to steam dry for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

Add the par-boiled potatoes to your baking dish. Sprinkle in dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle with 2 tbsp olive oil, stirring them to coat evenly.

Step 4: Roast Until Crispy

Roast the seasoned potatoes for about 30-40 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy but are not fully cooked yet.

Step 5: Add Feta Cheese

Carefully place your block of feta cheese in the middle of the potato tray. For extra flavor, dip one side in seasonings before flipping it over. Squeeze juice from half of a quartered lemon over it.

Step 6: Prepare Garlic

Remove the roasted garlic from its skin once cooled down. Use a knife’s flat side to mash it into a paste; set aside for later use.

Step 7: Final Bake

Return the baking dish to the oven for an additional 15 minutes until everything is golden brown and aromatic.

Step 8: Combine Flavors

Stir together your mashed garlic mixture with juice from another half lemon into the roasted potatoes along with chopped fresh basil. Gently mix everything so that flavors meld beautifully.

Step 9: Add Finishing Touches

Drizzle honey over everything and sprinkle with shredded basil for an added layer of flavor.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve hot as an incredible side dish that complements any meal!

How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with many meals. Their rich flavors and crispy texture make them an excellent choice for both casual dinners and special occasions.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy grilled chicken complements the creamy feta, creating a delicious balance of flavors.

Alongside Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables add color and nutrition, making your plate visually appealing and healthy.

As Part of a Greek Salad

• A refreshing Greek salad filled with tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives pairs perfectly with these baked feta potatoes for a Mediterranean feast.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your baked feta potatoes with additional fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an aromatic touch.

With Yogurt Dip

• Serve with a tangy yogurt dip or tzatziki on the side for added creaminess that enhances the dish.

How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes

Creating the perfect baked feta potatoes requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Choose the right potatoes: Use starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds for fluffy interiors and crispy skins.

• Par-boil for texture: Par-boiling the potatoes before roasting helps achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

• Use quality feta cheese: Opt for a good quality block of feta cheese; it melts beautifully and adds rich flavor.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread the potatoes evenly in your baking dish to ensure they roast instead of steam, resulting in better crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes can shine alongside various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider when planning your meal:

1. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly seasoned and grilled, zucchini adds a fresh crunch that pairs well with the richness of baked feta potatoes.

2. Lemon Garlic Broccoli: Steamed or sautéed broccoli tossed in lemon juice and garlic is both healthy and flavorful, complementing the main dish perfectly.

3. Classic Tzatziki: This cool cucumber yogurt dip enhances the Mediterranean theme while providing a refreshing contrast to warm baked feta potatoes.

4. Roasted Bell Peppers: Sweet roasted bell peppers add vibrant color and sweetness, making your meal more inviting and delicious.

5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with fresh herbs, tomatoes, and olives offers a nutritious balance to your plate.

6. Stuffed Grape Leaves: These vine-wrapped delights filled with rice and herbs bring an authentic Greek flair that pairs wonderfully with baked feta potatoes.

7. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: Chickpeas combined with diced veggies offer protein-rich satisfaction alongside your potato dish.

8. Feta Spinach Salad: A salad loaded with spinach, nuts, and crumbled feta creates a nutty taste profile that complements the baked feta potatoes beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing these baked feta potatoes, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the par-boil – Not par-boiling your potatoes can lead to uneven cooking. Always par-boil for 6-8 minutes to ensure they become crispy and tender.
• Overcrowding the baking dish – Crowded potatoes won’t roast properly. Ensure there’s enough space in the baking dish for even roasting and crispiness.
• Ignoring seasoning – Failing to season your feta and potatoes can result in bland flavor. Don’t skip the herbs and spices; they enhance the dish significantly.
• Not adjusting cooking time – Cooking times can vary based on potato size. Check for doneness by piercing with a fork; they should be tender and crispy.
• Forgetting to squeeze lemon – Skipping the lemon juice can make the dish taste flat. Always add fresh lemon juice for brightness and balance.
• Neglecting fresh herbs – Using dried herbs only may limit flavor depth. Fresh basil adds a lovely finish, so don’t forget this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover baked feta potatoes in an airtight container.
• They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes

• Oven – Preheat to 180C | 350F and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until hot.
• Microwave – Use medium power, reheating in short bursts of 1 minute until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries about baked feta potatoes that may help you get the best results.

What are Baked Feta Potatoes?

Baked feta potatoes are a delicious side dish featuring crispy roasted potatoes combined with creamy baked feta cheese, herbs, and spices.

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.

How do I make this dish vegan?

To make baked feta potatoes vegan, substitute feta with a plant-based cheese alternative or simply use extra olive oil and herbs for flavor.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers or cherry tomatoes before roasting for added color and nutrition.

How do I serve Baked Feta Potatoes?

These potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a Mediterranean platter alongside hummus and salad.

Final Thoughts

Baked feta potatoes are an incredible side dish that combines rich flavors with crispy textures. This recipe is not only easy but also adaptable, allowing you to customize it with your favorite herbs or additional vegetables. Give it a try for your next meal—you won’t be disappointed!