Baked Feta Potatoes

These Baked Feta Potatoes bring a delightful twist to your side dish repertoire. Inspired by the viral baked feta pasta trend, this recipe elevates simple potatoes into a creamy, flavorful delight. Perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or casual weeknight meals, these potatoes are not only rich in taste but also incredibly easy to prepare. Combining crispy roasted potatoes with the tangy goodness of baked feta makes them a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can whip up these potatoes without any hassle.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of feta cheese, herbs, and roasted garlic infuses the potatoes with a burst of Mediterranean flavor.
• Versatile Dish: These baked feta potatoes pair well with various main courses, making them suitable for any meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Their delicious taste and unique presentation are sure to impress family and friends alike.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Essential for roasting the potatoes evenly while allowing them to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
• Saucepan: Used for par-boiling the potatoes, ensuring they cook through perfectly.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to cut the potatoes and garlic with precision.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients efficiently.

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 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 will ensure that your potatoes roast perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and cube your baking potatoes. Add them to a saucepan filled with water. Bring it to a boil and par-boil the potatoes for 6-8 minutes (no more than 10). Once done, drain and steam dry for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

Transfer the par-boiled potatoes into your baking dish. Add thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Stir well until all pieces are evenly coated.

Step 4: Roast the Potatoes

Roast the seasoned potatoes in the oven for about 30-40 minutes until they are golden brown and nearly cooked through.

Step 5: Add Feta and Lemon

Place the block of feta in the center of the tray. Optionally dip one side in seasonings before placing it down. Squeeze half of one lemon over it.

Step 6: Prepare Garlic

Remove the garlic head from the dish after roasting for a while. Once cooled slightly, squeeze out the softened garlic from its skins and mash it using a knife. Set aside.

Step 7: Complete Roasting

Return your baking dish to the oven for an additional 15 minutes so that everything melds together beautifully.

Step 8: Combine Ingredients

After roasting, mix in your mashed garlic along with more lemon juice from the remaining half lemon into your potato-feta mixture using a spoon. Gently fold in fresh basil as well.

Step 9: Drizzle Honey

Finish by drizzling honey over everything along with some shredded basil for added flavor.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Your delicious 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 delicious and versatile side dish that can complement a variety of meals. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken breasts or thighs provide a juicy protein contrast to the creamy feta and crispy potatoes, creating a balanced plate.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots, enhances the meal’s flavor profile while adding vibrant colors.

Accompany with Fresh Salad

• A light salad made of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber dressed in a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing crunch alongside the richness of baked feta potatoes.

Enjoy with Hummus and Pita

• Serve baked feta potatoes as part of a Mediterranean platter with hummus and warm pita bread for a delightful appetizer spread.

Add to an Omelette

• Use leftover baked feta potatoes as a flavorful filling in your morning omelette for an easy brunch option.

Garnish with Extra Herbs

• Finish your dish with additional fresh herbs like parsley or dill to enhance the flavor and presentation of the baked feta potatoes.

How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes

Achieving the perfect baked feta potatoes requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Choose the right potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for fluffiness or waxy varieties like Yukon Golds for creaminess.
• Par-boil effectively: Par-boiling helps achieve that soft inside while still allowing for crispy edges when roasted.
• Season generously: Don’t skimp on seasonings – they enhance the flavors of both the potatoes and the feta cheese.
• Use fresh herbs: Fresh basil or parsley added just before serving brightens the dish and adds freshness.
• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on both baking stages; overcooking can lead to mushy potatoes or burnt feta.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add different spices or vegetables based on your preferences for added depth.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes pair well with many side dishes that can round out your meal. Here are some top picks:

1. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears grilled until tender offer a delightful crunch.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing makes for a nutritious pairing.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices complement the flavors of baked feta potatoes beautifully.
4. Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooked spinach drizzled with olive oil provides a nutritious green element that balances the dish.
5. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs brings Mediterranean flair to your table.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with garlic offer both texture and flavor in contrast to the creamy feta.
7. Greek Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based sauce served on the side adds a cool tang that pairs perfectly with warm baked feta potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Baked Feta Potatoes, it’s easy to make small mistakes that can affect the dish’s overall quality. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the par-boil: Not par-boiling the potatoes can lead to uneven cooking. Always par-boil for 6-8 minutes before roasting.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: If you crowd the potatoes and feta in the dish, they won’t roast properly. Ensure there’s enough space for even cooking.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to season the potatoes well may result in bland flavors. Use salt and spices liberally for a tasty outcome.
• Not using fresh herbs: Relying solely on dried herbs can limit flavor depth. Always try to incorporate fresh herbs like basil for added freshness.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Cooking at an incorrect temperature can ruin your potatoes’ texture. Make sure your oven is preheated to 200C | 390F before starting.
• Rushing the cooling process: Allowing garlic to cool too quickly can make it hard to squeeze out of its skin. Take your time with this step for maximum flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Baked Feta Potatoes in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes

• Place cooled potatoes in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180C | 350F and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on medium power for about 1-2 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, warm the potatoes while stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Baked Feta Potatoes?

Baked Feta Potatoes are a delicious side dish featuring roasted potatoes combined with baked feta cheese and fresh herbs, creating a rich and flavorful experience.

How do I make my Baked Feta Potatoes crispy?

To achieve crispy Baked Feta Potatoes, ensure you par-boil them first, then roast them at high heat until golden brown.

Can I customize my Baked Feta Potatoes?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes before roasting for extra flavor and nutrition.

How long does it take to make Baked Feta Potatoes?

The total time required is approximately 55 minutes from prep to serving, making it a relatively quick side dish.

Final Thoughts

Baked Feta Potatoes are not just another side dish; they’re a delightful combination of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal. Feel free to customize them with your favorite vegetables or herbs, making this recipe versatile enough for any occasion. Try these delicious potatoes today!