Baked Feta Potatoes

These Baked Feta Potatoes are a delightful twist on the popular baked feta pasta trend. This dish features crispy roasted potatoes enveloped in rich, creamy feta cheese, making it an irresistible side for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a family meal, these baked feta potatoes bring flavors that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, anyone can whip up this delicious dish.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of herbs, garlic, and lemon elevates the taste and makes for a truly memorable meal.
• Versatile Side Dish: Perfectly complements a variety of main courses or can stand alone as a vegetarian delight.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings and potlucks; it’s sure to impress your guests with its vibrant flavors.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the right tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and allows for easy mixing of ingredients.
• Saucepan: Essential for par-boiling potatoes, which helps achieve that crispy texture later.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting potatoes and garlic quick and safe.
• Spoon: Perfect for mixing ingredients thoroughly without breaking the potatoes.

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.

Potatoes

• 2 large baking potatoes

Feta & Seasoning

• 1 200g block of feta
• 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

Aromatics & Garnish

• 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 prepare for roasting the potatoes.

Step 2: Par-Boil The Potatoes

1. Wash and cube your potatoes.
2. Add them to a saucepan and cover with water.
3. Bring to a boil and par-boil for 6-8 minutes (do not exceed 10 minutes).
4. 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:
– Dried thyme
– Dried oregano
– Salt
– Pepper
– Olive oil

Stir them well to coat evenly.

Step 4: Roast The Potatoes

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

Step 5: Add Feta and Lemon

Place the block of feta in the center of the tray (dipping one side in seasonings first adds flavor). Squeeze half of the lemon over it.

Step 6: Prepare Garlic

Remove the garlic from the dish once roasted; allow it to cool slightly before squeezing out the softened cloves from their skins. Mash with a knife and set aside.

Step 7: Return To Oven

Put everything back into the oven for an additional 15 minutes until feta is soft and warm.

Step 8: Combine Flavors

Mix together the mashed garlic with juice from the remaining lemon half into the potatoes. Add fresh basil gently mixing everything together.

Step 9: Finish With Honey

Drizzle honey over your baked feta potatoes along with some shredded basil for added flavor.

Step 10: Serve And Enjoy!

Serve hot as a delicious side that everyone will love!

How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes are a versatile side dish that can elevate any meal. They pair beautifully with a variety of main courses, making them an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings.

With Grilled Chicken

• Serve these potatoes alongside grilled chicken for a hearty meal. The flavors complement each other, creating a satisfying plate.

As Part of a Mediterranean Platter

• Arrange the baked feta potatoes with olives, hummus, and pita bread for a delightful Mediterranean-inspired spread.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Pair your baked feta potatoes with roasted seasonal vegetables for added nutrition and color. The earthy flavors enhance the overall dish.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Finish off your baked feta potatoes with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This adds freshness and a burst of flavor.

As a Standalone Snack

• Enjoy these potatoes on their own as a delicious snack option. Their rich taste will satisfy cravings between meals.

How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes

Achieving the perfect baked feta potatoes requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose the right potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for the best texture. They become light and fluffy when baked.

• Par-boil carefully: Ensure you par-boil the potatoes just enough to soften them without fully cooking them. This step is key for achieving crispy edges.

• Season generously: Don’t skimp on seasoning before roasting. A good mix of herbs and spices enhances flavor throughout the dish.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs make a significant difference in taste compared to dried versions. Always opt for fresh when possible.

• Monitor roasting time: Keep an eye on your potatoes while they roast. Oven temperatures can vary, so adjust cooking times as needed for optimal crispiness.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes can shine alongside various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears lightly seasoned and grilled add a vibrant touch to your meal.

2. Greek Salad: A refreshing salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta brings a cool contrast to the warm potatoes.

3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with balsamic vinegar offer a deliciously nutty flavor profile that pairs well.

4. Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed salad with quinoa, chickpeas, and veggies provides a wholesome accompaniment.

5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice and vegetables add both flavor and visual appeal to your table setting.

6. Lemon Garlic Green Beans: Bright green beans sautéed in lemon juice and garlic provide a zesty side that complements baked feta potatoes perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making baked feta potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you create the best dish possible.

• Ignoring potato type: Using the wrong type of potato can affect texture. Stick to starchy varieties like Russets for crispy results.
• Overcooking the garlic: Garlic can burn easily, becoming bitter. Roast it just until soft and fragrant to keep the flavor balanced.
• Not pre-boiling potatoes: Skipping the par-boil step can lead to uneven cooking. Always par-boil to ensure they cook evenly and become crispy.
• Skipping seasoning: Lack of seasoning will make your dish bland. Be generous with herbs and spices for a flavor boost.
• Failure to use fresh ingredients: Stale or dry herbs won’t provide the same depth of flavor. Always opt for fresh herbs when possible.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes

• Allow cooling completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags and consume within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 180°C | 350°F. Spread on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover, and heat in short intervals until warm, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about baked feta potatoes that might help you in your cooking journey.

Can I customize my Baked Feta Potatoes?

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

What type of feta should I use?

For the best results, choose a block of feta cheese rather than crumbled feta. It holds its shape better during baking.

How do I know when my potatoes are done?

The potatoes should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while tender on the inside. A fork should easily pierce them.

Can I use other cheeses instead of feta?

Yes! You can experiment with goat cheese or ricotta for different flavors, but keeping the original taste may require adjusting cooking times.

Final Thoughts

These baked feta potatoes offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make them a standout side dish. Their versatility allows for customization based on your preferences, whether adding extra veggies or trying different cheeses. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!