Baked Feta Potatoes

These baked feta potatoes are a delightful twist on the viral baked feta pasta trend. This flavor-packed dish combines crispy roasted potatoes with creamy baked feta cheese, making it a perfect side for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a family gathering, or looking for a simple weeknight side dish, these potatoes will impress with their rich taste and easy preparation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Rich – The combination of roasted potatoes and baked feta creates a deliciously creamy and savory flavor.
• Easy to Make – With just a few simple steps, you can prepare this dish without stress.
• Versatile Side Dish – These baked feta potatoes pair well with various main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian options.
• Healthy Ingredients – Packed with wholesome ingredients like garlic, herbs, and fresh basil, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this recipe fits the bill.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your baked feta potatoes.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish – A sturdy dish ensures even cooking of the potatoes and allows the feta to melt perfectly.
• Saucepan – Used for par-boiling the potatoes, which helps achieve that crispy texture.
• Knife – Essential for cutting the potatoes and garlic accurately.
• Cutting board – Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients.

Ingredients

These baked feta potatoes are made with simple yet flavorful ingredients that elevate their taste.

Potatoes & Feta

• 2 large baking potatoes
• 1 200g block of feta

Seasonings & Aromatics

• 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
• 1 head of garlic (top cut off)

Additions & Garnishes

• 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 the potatoes.

Step 2: Prepare 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 (no more than 10).
– Drain and let them steam dry for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

Add the drained potatoes to your baking dish.
– Combine with thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
– Stir well to coat evenly.

Step 4: Roast the Potatoes

Roast in the preheated oven for 30 to 40 minutes until golden brown and crispy but not fully cooked through.

Step 5: Add Feta Cheese

Place the block of feta in the center of the baking dish.
– Optionally dip one side in seasonings before flipping it over.
– Squeeze half of the lemon over the feta.

Step 6: Prepare Garlic Mixture

After removing from oven:
– Take out the garlic head; once cool enough to handle, squeeze out its soft flesh into a bowl.
– Mash it lightly with a knife and set aside.

Step 7: Finish Roasting

Return the baking dish to the oven for another 15 minutes until everything is perfectly cooked.

Step 8: Mix Everything Together

Stir in your mashed garlic along with juice from the remaining lemon half into the roasted potatoes.
– Gently mix everything together using a spoon.

Step 9: Add Honey & Basil

Drizzle honey over your baked feta potatoes.
– Sprinkle shredded fresh basil as garnish before serving.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Plate your delicious baked feta potatoes while still warm, allowing everyone to savor every bite!

How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes are a delightful and versatile side dish that pairs well with various main courses. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken complements the creamy feta and crispy potatoes perfectly. Simply season the chicken with herbs for a balanced meal.

As a Vegetarian Main

• Enjoy baked feta potatoes as a standalone dish by adding a fresh salad on the side. A simple arugula salad works wonderfully.

Paired with Lamb

• The rich flavors of lamb work beautifully with baked feta potatoes. Consider rosemary or garlic seasoning on the lamb for extra flavor.

Accompanied by Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables can add color and nutrition. Try carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for a vibrant plate.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Enhance your baked feta potatoes with additional fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This adds freshness and elevates the dish’s presentation.

Served with Tzatziki Sauce

• A dollop of tzatziki sauce can provide a cooling contrast to the warm, savory flavors of baked feta potatoes. It’s especially refreshing in warmer months.

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How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes

To achieve the best results with baked feta potatoes, consider these tips.

• Use high-quality feta: Opt for Greek feta cheese for its rich and tangy flavor, which enhances the dish.
• Don’t skip par-boiling: Par-boiling ensures your potatoes are tender inside while still getting crispy on the outside during roasting.
• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.
• Let garlic cool before mashing: This prevents burns and allows you to easily incorporate it into the dish for maximum flavor.
• Serve immediately: Baked feta potatoes are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they’re still crispy.
• Try different potato varieties: Different types of potatoes can give varied textures; Yukon Golds or red potatoes can be great alternatives.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes pair wonderfully with many side dishes, creating a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Salad
   A classic Greek salad brings freshness and crunch, balancing out the rich flavors of baked feta potatoes.

2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Their nutty flavor complements the buttery texture of the potatoes, adding depth to your meal.

3. Lemon Herb Quinoa
   This light side dish enhances the Mediterranean theme while providing a healthy grain option.

4. Grilled Asparagus
   Grilling asparagus adds smokiness that pairs nicely with the creamy feta in your baked potatoes.

5. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or beans offer an appealing presentation alongside your dish.

6. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw can provide a crunchy contrast that makes every bite interesting and satisfying.

7. Cucumber Tomato Salad
   This refreshing salad adds hydration and brightness, making it perfect for summer meals.

8. Pita Bread with Hummus
   Serve warm pita bread and hummus as an appetizer, allowing guests to enjoy dips before diving into their main meal featuring baked feta potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baked Feta Potatoes are a delightful dish, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your potatoes turn out perfectly every time.

• Overcooking the Potatoes: Par-boiling for too long can make your potatoes mushy. Stick to 6-8 minutes for the best texture.
• Using Low-Quality Feta: Quality matters! Using a good-quality feta cheese enhances the flavor significantly. Opt for a block of feta rather than crumbled.
• Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to season! Adequate seasoning is crucial for flavor. Be generous with herbs and spices when tossing your potatoes.
• Not Checking Doneness: Always test! Ensure your potatoes are golden and crispy by checking them towards the end of roasting. Adjust your cooking time if necessary.
• Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Fresh is best! Adding fresh basil at the end boosts flavor and freshness. Don’t skip this step!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes

• Duration: These can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes

• Oven: Best method! Preheat to 180C | 350F and bake until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Quick option! Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm.
• Stovetop: For crispiness! Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little oil if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Baked Feta Potatoes, you’re not alone! Here are some commonly asked queries.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, while feta is traditional, you can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta for a different flavor profile.

How do I make Baked Feta Potatoes vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute the feta with a dairy-free cheese alternative that melts well.

What can I serve with Baked Feta Potatoes?

These potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Can I customize the spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to make these Baked Feta Potatoes your own.

Final Thoughts

Baked Feta Potatoes are an irresistible side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Their delightful flavors and versatility make them perfect for gatherings or weeknight dinners. Don’t hesitate to customize this recipe with your favorite toppings!