Baked Feta Potatoes

These Baked Feta Potatoes are a delightful twist on the viral baked feta pasta trend. They combine crispy roasted potatoes with creamy baked feta, making them an irresistible side dish for any meal. Ideal for gatherings or cozy dinners, these potatoes are rich in flavor and texture, ensuring they will stand out on your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, these potatoes come together quickly.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of feta, herbs, and roasted garlic creates a deliciously rich taste profile.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfect alongside grilled chicken, lamb, or even as a snack on their own.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The vibrant colors and textures make this dish visually appealing.
• Healthy Option: Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s a nutritious addition to any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Saucepan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and easy serving of the baked feta potatoes.
• Saucepan: Ideal for par-boiling the potatoes before roasting, resulting in crispy texture.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting the potatoes and garlic hassle-free.
• Mixing spoon: Helps in evenly coating the potatoes with seasonings and mixing other ingredients smoothly.

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 and Garlic

• 1 200g block of feta
• 1 head of garlic (top cut off)
• 1 lemon, quartered

For Garnish

• 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 so it’s hot enough to roast the potatoes perfectly.

Step 2: Par-Boil the Potatoes

Wash and cube your potatoes. Add them to a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and par-boil the potatoes for 6-8 minutes (no more than 10). Drain them and let them steam dry for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Coat the Potatoes

Add the par-boiled potatoes to your baking dish. Sprinkle in thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and drizzle with olive oil. Stir gently to coat them evenly with all seasonings.

Step 4: Roast Until Crisp

Roast the coated potatoes in the oven for 30-40 minutes until they are golden brown and crispy but still slightly undercooked.

Step 5: Add Feta and Lemon

Place the feta cheese in the center of the baking tray. You can dip one side in seasonings for extra flavor. Squeeze over half of the lemon juice.

Step 6: Prepare the Garlic

Remove the garlic from the dish after roasting. Once cool enough to handle, squeeze out its soft insides into a bowl. Mash it using the flat side of your knife and set aside.

Step 7: Finish Roasting

Return the baking dish to the oven for another 15 minutes until everything is beautifully roasted.

Step 8: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the mashed garlic mixture along with juice from the remaining half of lemon into the potatoes. Add fresh basil leaves gently mixing everything together.

Step 9: Drizzle Honey

Drizzle honey over your baked feta potatoes for that sweet finishing touch.

Step 10: Serve

Serve warm and enjoy these delectable Baked Feta Potatoes as a side dish or main highlight!

How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes are a delightful side dish that can elevate any meal. Their creamy feta and crispy texture pair wonderfully with various entrees, making them versatile and delicious.

With Grilled Chicken

• Grilled chicken complements the creamy feta perfectly. The smoky flavor of the chicken enhances the richness of the potatoes.

Alongside Lamb Chops

• The savory taste of lamb chops pairs beautifully with baked feta potatoes, adding depth to your dining experience.

With a Fresh Salad

• A light salad, such as a Greek salad, balances the richness of the potatoes, providing freshness and crunch with every bite.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill not only brightens the dish but also enhances its flavor profile.

As Part of a Mediterranean Feast

• Serve baked feta potatoes as part of a larger Mediterranean-inspired meal alongside hummus, olives, and pita bread for a vibrant spread.

How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes

Achieving the perfect baked feta potatoes requires attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Use quality feta – Opt for high-quality feta cheese for a creamier texture and more robust flavor.
• Par-boil carefully – Ensure you don’t over-parboil the potatoes; this step is crucial for achieving crispiness during roasting.
• Season generously – Don’t skimp on seasonings! A good amount of salt and pepper brings out the flavors in both the potatoes and feta.
• Check for doneness – Roast until golden brown; checking frequently ensures your potatoes are perfectly crispy without burning.
• Mix gently – When mixing in garlic and basil, be gentle to maintain the potato’s crispy exterior while infusing flavors.
• Serve immediately – These potatoes are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re at their crispiest!

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes pair well with various side dishes that enhance their flavors. Here’s a list of excellent accompaniments.

1. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil and grilled add smokiness and color to your plate.
2. Tzatziki Sauce – This refreshing yogurt-based sauce provides a cool contrast to warm, crispy potatoes.
3. Roasted Asparagus – Simple yet flavorful, roasted asparagus adds a delightful crunch alongside your baked feta potatoes.
4. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad – A hearty salad packed with veggies and grains complements the rich feta flavors beautifully.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or grains add variety and nutrition to your meal.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts bring an earthy flavor that pairs well with the creamy elements of baked feta.
7. Hummus Platter – A variety of hummus served with pita chips enhances your Mediterranean theme while offering additional textures.
8. Herbed Couscous – Fluffy couscous mixed with fresh herbs rounds out your meal with its lightness and subtle flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Baked Feta Potatoes, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for.

• Boldly Overcooking the Potatoes: Par-boiling is key. If you overcook them, they will become mushy when baked. Aim for 6-8 minutes of boiling.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to season your potatoes adequately can result in bland flavors. Be sure to coat them well with olive oil, salt, and herbs.
• Skipping the Garlic: Garlic adds depth and richness to the dish. Always include it and ensure it’s roasted until soft for the best flavor.
• Not Using Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs lack the brightness of fresh ones. Opt for fresh basil at the end for a burst of flavor that elevates the dish.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at too low a temperature may not yield the desired crispiness. Preheat your oven properly to 200C | 390F for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Baked Feta Potatoes in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes

• Place cooled potatoes in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180C | 350F and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Baked Feta Potatoes.

How do I make Baked Feta Potatoes crispy?

To achieve crispy potatoes, ensure they are well-coated with oil before roasting and bake at a high temperature until golden brown.

Can I use different cheeses instead of feta?

Yes, you can try goat cheese or even a plant-based cheese if you’re looking for alternatives. Just keep in mind that this may alter the flavor profile slightly.

How long do Baked Feta Potatoes take to cook?

The total cooking time is approximately 55 minutes, including both par-boiling and baking.

Can I add vegetables to my Baked Feta Potatoes?

Absolutely! You can toss in cherry tomatoes or bell peppers along with the potatoes for added color and flavor.

Are Baked Feta Potatoes suitable for meal prep?

Yes, these potatoes store well and can be made ahead of time, making them perfect for meal prepping.

Final Thoughts

Baked Feta Potatoes are a delightful side dish that combines rich flavors with crispy textures. They’re versatile enough to pair with various main courses or stand alone as a satisfying treat. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or vegetables!