Baked Feta Potatoes

These Baked Feta Potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic side dish, inspired by the viral baked feta pasta trend. They combine crispy, roasted potatoes with creamy baked feta cheese, creating a rich and flavorful experience. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes are sure to impress. Their unique blend of herbs and spices makes them stand out, bringing a taste of Greece right to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can whip up this dish with confidence.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of feta cheese, garlic, and herbs creates an irresistible taste that elevates every bite.
• Versatile Side Dish: These baked feta potatoes complement various main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian options.
• Healthier Option: Using fresh ingredients like olive oil and herbs offers a nutritious alternative to heavier sides.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields enough for four servings, making it ideal for family meals or entertaining friends.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth, gather these essential tools and equipment.

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 crispiness for the potatoes.
• Saucepan: This tool is vital for par-boiling the potatoes before roasting them to perfection.
• Knife: A sharp knife allows you to easily chop the potatoes and prepare other ingredients.
• Spoon: Use a spoon to mix the ingredients thoroughly, ensuring every potato is coated with flavor.

Ingredients

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 Mixture

• 1 200g block of feta
• 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 that your potatoes start cooking at the right temperature.

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).
Drain and let them steam dry for 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

Add the par-boiled potatoes to your baking dish along with:
Thyme,
Oregano,
Salt,
Pepper,
Olive oil.

Stir them well to coat evenly.

Step 4: Roast the Potatoes

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

Step 5: Add Feta and Lemon

Place the feta cheese in the middle of the tray.
Squeeze over half of your lemon juice for added flavor.

Step 6: Prepare Garlic

Remove garlic from the dish. Once cooled:
Squeeze out the garlic from its skins.
Mash it with the flat of your knife and set it aside.

Step 7: Complete Roasting Process

Return your baking dish to the oven for another 15 minutes. This allows the feta to become melty and flavorful.

Step 8: Combine Ingredients Before Serving

Stir in:
The mashed garlic,
Juice from the remaining half of lemon,
Fresh basil into your roasted potato mixture gently.

Step 9: Drizzle Honey & Serve

Finish off by drizzling honey over everything and adding shredded basil before serving.

Step 10: Enjoy!

Serve warm as a delicious side dish to accompany your favorite meals!

How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual family meal, these potatoes can complement many main courses.

With Grilled Meats

• Chicken Skewers – Juicy grilled chicken skewers seasoned with spices enhance the flavors of the baked feta potatoes.
• Lamb Chops – Tender, herb-marinated lamb chops provide a rich contrast to the creamy feta and crispy potatoes.

As Part of a Salad

• Greek Salad – A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives alongside your baked feta potatoes creates a colorful and nutritious plate.
• Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed quinoa salad with fresh vegetables adds texture and makes for a complete meal.

Topped with Fresh Ingredients

• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt – A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess that balances the savory flavors of the feta.
• Chopped Scallions – Sprinkling chopped scallions on top introduces freshness and a slight crunch to each bite.

How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes

To achieve the best results with your baked feta potatoes, consider these tips for an even tastier dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and high-quality feta will significantly enhance the flavor profile.
• Pre-soak Potatoes – Soaking cubed potatoes in cold water helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier edges.
• Monitor Roasting Time – Keep an eye on your potatoes; they should be golden brown but not overcooked to maintain their texture.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to add other spices like paprika or rosemary for varied flavor combinations.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes pair well with many delicious sides. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Grilled Vegetables – A medley of colorful vegetables grilled to perfection brings vibrant flavors that complement the potatoes.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts tossed in olive oil make for a hearty addition that balances the dish.
3. Tzatziki Sauce – This cool cucumber yogurt dip adds freshness and is perfect for dipping your baked feta potatoes.
4. Chickpea Salad – A protein-rich chickpea salad provides a satisfying crunch that pairs nicely with creamy feta.
5. Pita Bread – Soft pita bread can be served warm, allowing you to scoop up both the potatoes and any remaining feta cheese.
6. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers stuffed with rice and herbs create a colorful side that enhances your meal’s presentation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making baked feta potatoes, it’s easy to overlook some steps that can affect the dish’s final outcome. Here are common mistakes to avoid and how to perfect your recipe.

• Skipping the par-boiling step: Par-boiling helps achieve crispy potatoes. Be sure to boil for 6-8 minutes before roasting for the best texture.
• Not seasoning enough: Feta and potatoes need flavor enhancement. Don’t skimp on herbs and spices; use thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper generously.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: If you crowd the potatoes, they may steam instead of roast. Spread them out in a single layer for perfect crispiness.
• Ignoring cooking times: Each oven varies. Keep an eye on your potatoes; adjust cooking times as needed for desired crispness.
• Failing to let garlic cool before squeezing: Hot garlic can cause burns. Let it cool for a few minutes before squeezing out the cloves for easier handling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store baked feta potatoes in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes

• Allow the potatoes to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; they can last up to 2 months.

Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 180C | 350F, place the potatoes on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of olive oil. Stir occasionally until thoroughly warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about baked feta potatoes, this section covers some of the most common inquiries.

What are Baked Feta Potatoes?

Baked feta potatoes are crispy roasted potatoes combined with baked feta cheese, creating a rich and flavorful side dish.

Can I customize my Baked Feta Potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

How do I make my Baked Feta Potatoes spicier?

To spice things up, increase the amount of red chili flakes or add fresh chopped chili peppers into your mix.

What should I serve with Baked Feta Potatoes?

These baked feta potatoes pair well with grilled meats, salads, or even as part of a Mediterranean feast.

Final Thoughts

Baked feta potatoes offer a delightful twist on traditional roasted potatoes. Their creamy feta complements the crispy texture beautifully, making them ideal for any occasion. Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or additional veggies for an even more personalized dish. Enjoy experimenting!