Baked Feta Potatoes

These Baked Feta Potatoes are a delightful twist on the popular baked feta pasta trend. Perfect for any occasion, this dish combines crispy roasted potatoes with rich and creamy feta cheese, creating an unforgettable side that will impress your guests. Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes deliver exceptional flavor, making them a standout addition to your meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can create this delicious dish without fuss.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of roasted garlic, herbs, and feta results in a savory profile that elevates any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a side for grilled meats, served at potlucks, or enjoyed on their own as a comforting snack.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome components like potatoes and fresh herbs, these baked feta potatoes are both nutritious and satisfying.
• Meal Prep Friendly: These potatoes are great for making ahead of time and reheating, saving you time during busy weeks.

Tools and Preparation

To make these baked feta potatoes effectively, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment ensures that your cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good quality baking dish allows for even cooking and helps achieve that crispy texture we all love.
• Saucepan: This is essential for par-boiling the potatoes to get them tender before roasting.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easier to chop ingredients efficiently.
• Spoon: Use it to mix the potatoes with the seasonings evenly.

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 to ensure it’s hot enough for roasting your potatoes perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash and cube your potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
2. Place them in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil.
3. Par-boil the potatoes for 6-8 minutes (no more than 10), then drain and allow to steam dry for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

Add the par-boiled potatoes to your baking dish along with:
– Dried thyme
– Dried oregano
– Salt
– Black pepper
– Olive oil

Stir well to coat the potatoes evenly with the seasonings.

Step 4: Roast until Crispy

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

Step 5: Add Feta and Lemon

Place the feta block in the middle of the baking tray. Dip one side in the seasonings before flipping it over if desired. Squeeze half a lemon over it.

Step 6: Prepare Garlic

Remove the garlic from its skin once cooled. Squeeze out the roasted garlic cloves into a bowl and mash them with a knife. Set aside for later use.

Step 7: Finish Roasting

Return the baking dish to the oven for another 15 minutes so that everything bakes together beautifully.

Step 8: Combine Ingredients

Stir together:
– The mashed garlic mixture
– The juice of the remaining lemon

Add this back into your roasting dish along with fresh basil, gently mixing everything together.

Step 9: Drizzle Honey

Finish by drizzling honey over your baked feta potatoes along with some shredded basil for added flavor.

Step 10: Serve

Your delicious baked feta potatoes are ready! Serve warm and enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes are a delightful side dish that pairs wonderfully with many meals. Their creamy feta and crispy potato texture makes them versatile for various occasions.

With Grilled Chicken

• Juicy Chicken Breasts: Serve with simply seasoned grilled chicken for a hearty meal.
• Lemon Herb Chicken: The lemony notes in both dishes enhance each other’s flavors.

As Part of a Mediterranean Platter

• Mixed Olives: Add an assortment of olives for a salty contrast.
• Hummus: A smooth, creamy dip pairs well, providing a different texture.

With Fresh Salads

• Greek Salad: Complement the baked feta potatoes with a refreshing Greek salad full of veggies and tangy dressing.
• Arugula Salad: The peppery arugula adds a nice balance to the richness of the potatoes.

For Brunch

• Poached Eggs: Top the baked feta potatoes with poached eggs for a delicious brunch option.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and nutrients, making it extra satisfying.

How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes

To achieve the best results when making baked feta potatoes, consider these tips. They will help you elevate your dish’s flavor and texture.

• Use Quality Feta: Opt for high-quality feta cheese; it will melt beautifully and enhance the dish’s taste.
• Par-Boil Your Potatoes: Par-boiling ensures that your potatoes cook evenly and become crispy upon roasting.
• Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can brighten the flavors and add freshness to your dish.
• Don’t Skip the Garlic: Roasting garlic brings out its sweetness, adding depth to the baked feta potatoes.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the seasonings based on your preference; try adding more chili flakes for extra heat.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the potatoes to sit for a few minutes after baking helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes are fantastic on their own but can be even better when paired with other sides. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal vegetables offer a smoky flavor that complements the creaminess of the potatoes.
2. Tzatziki Sauce: This cool yogurt-based sauce adds refreshing creaminess, balancing out the dish’s richness.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears provide crunch and freshness, enhancing your meal’s overall profile.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad introduces grains into your meal while keeping it healthy and satisfying.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains, veggies, or meats create an appealing plate alongside baked feta potatoes.
6. Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Quick sautéed shrimp in lemon and garlic bring protein and zest to your dining experience.
7. Cucumber Tomato Salad: Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes make for a refreshing side that contrasts nicely with warm baked feta potatoes.
8. Fried Eggplant Chips: Crispy eggplant chips add crunch and can be enjoyed as an appetizer before diving into the main meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making baked feta potatoes, avoiding common pitfalls ensures a delicious result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the par-boil step: Par-boiling the potatoes helps achieve that perfect crispy texture. Don’t skip it; it makes all the difference!
• Using low-quality feta: A good feta cheese enhances flavor significantly. Opt for a high-quality block for the best results.
• Not seasoning enough: Feta and potatoes need proper seasoning. Be generous with herbs and spices to maximize flavor.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: If you cram too many potatoes in, they won’t roast properly. Give them room to breathe for that ideal crispiness.
• Ignoring the resting time: Letting your baked feta potatoes rest allows flavors to meld together. Don’t rush this step; it’s worth it!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the baked feta potatoes to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes

• You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months.
• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, ensuring all air is removed.

Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 180C | 350F and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about baked feta potatoes:

What are Baked Feta Potatoes?

Baked feta potatoes are roasted potatoes combined with creamy baked feta cheese and herbs, making a rich side dish that’s full of flavor.

Can I use different herbs?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other herbs like rosemary or parsley to customize your baked feta potatoes.

How do I make Baked Feta Potatoes vegan?

To make this dish vegan, substitute feta with a plant-based cheese alternative and use maple syrup instead of honey.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes! Adding vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers can enhance both flavor and nutrition in your baked feta potatoes.

Final Thoughts

Baked feta potatoes are a delightful addition to any meal, offering comfort and versatility. This dish can easily be customized with various herbs and additions, making it perfect for any occasion. Try these baked feta potatoes today, and enjoy their rich flavors!