Baked Feta Potatoes
These Baked Feta Potatoes are not just a side dish; they are a flavorful and rich addition to any meal. Inspired by the viral baked feta pasta trend, this recipe showcases crispy roasted potatoes enveloped in creamy baked feta cheese. Perfect for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, these potatoes are sure to impress with their unique taste and satisfying texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of baked feta and roasted garlic creates a deliciously creamy and smoky flavor.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep work, you can have this dish ready in about an hour.
- Versatile Side Dish: These baked feta potatoes complement a variety of main courses, from grilled meats to vegetarian options.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with fresh herbs and wholesome vegetables, this dish provides vitamins and minerals.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a family dinner or a party, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit among guests.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Gather the essential equipment before you start.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Oven mitts
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even roasting of potatoes while allowing space for the feta and garlic.
- Saucepan: Ideal for par-boiling the potatoes, making them tender before roasting.
- Knife: A sharp knife helps in easily chopping ingredients like potatoes and garlic.
- Cutting board: Provides a clean surface for all your chopping needs.
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
- 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
For Flavor Enhancements
- 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 ensures that your potatoes roast evenly and become crispy.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and cube your potatoes. Add them to a saucepan and cover with water. Bring it to a boil. Par-boil the potatoes for 6-8 minutes (do not exceed 10 minutes), then drain them and steam dry for 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
Add the par-boiled potatoes to your baking dish. Sprinkle in the thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and drizzle with olive oil. Stir well to coat each potato evenly with seasonings.
Step 4: Roast Until Golden
Roast the seasoned potatoes in the oven for 30-40 minutes until they are golden brown, crispy on the outside, and almost cooked through.
Step 5: Add Feta Cheese
Once the potatoes are nearly done roasting, add the block of feta cheese to the center of the baking tray. Optionally dip one side into seasonings before placing it down. Squeeze over half a lemon for added flavor.
Step 6: Roast Garlic
Remove the garlic head from the baking dish. Once cooled slightly, squeeze out each clove from its skin using your fingers or knife. Mash them gently with a knife; set aside for later use.
Step 7: Final Roasting
Return the baking dish back into the oven for another 15 minutes. This allows time for the feta to soften and meld with other flavors.
Step 8: Combine Everything
Stir together the mashed garlic mixture along with juice from the remaining half of lemon back into your roasted potato mix along with fresh basil leaves. Use a spoon to gently combine everything without breaking up too many potatoes.
Step 9: Drizzle Honey
Finally, drizzle honey over everything followed by some shredded basil for an extra touch of flavor.
Step 10: Serve & Enjoy!
Your delicious Baked Feta Potatoes are now ready! Serve hot as an extraordinary side dish that will leave everyone wanting more!
How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes
Baked feta potatoes are versatile and can elevate any meal with their rich flavors. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this delicious dish.
As a Standalone Dish
- Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, these baked feta potatoes can be served on their own, drizzled with lemon juice for added zest.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Pair your baked feta potatoes with grilled seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. The smoky flavor complements the creamy feta perfectly.
On a Salad
- Serve the baked feta potatoes over a bed of fresh greens. Add cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for a refreshing salad option that balances richness with crunch.
With Protein
- Enhance your meal by serving baked feta potatoes alongside grilled chicken or fish. The protein pairs well with the creamy, savory potatoes.
As Part of a Mezze Platter
- Include baked feta potatoes in a Mediterranean-inspired mezze platter. Combine them with hummus, olives, and pita bread for a delightful appetizer spread.
How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes
To ensure your baked feta potatoes turn out amazing every time, follow these simple tips for perfection.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality feta cheese will enhance the flavors significantly.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give the potatoes enough space on the baking tray for even roasting and crispiness.
- Par-boil Carefully: Ensure you don’t overcook the potatoes when par-boiling; they should just be tender.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to modify the herbs and spices according to your taste preferences for more personalized flavor.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture and taste, serve your baked feta potatoes right after cooking while they are warm.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try adding different toppings like sun-dried tomatoes or olives for an extra flavor boost.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes
Baked feta potatoes pair beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complete your meal.
- Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and olives dressed in olive oil adds freshness.
- Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based sauce is cool and tangy, making it an excellent dip alongside your potatoes.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned roasted asparagus provides a crunchy contrast to creamy baked feta potatoes.
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Succulent shrimp sautéed with garlic and lemon makes for a tasty protein accompaniment.
- Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: A hearty quinoa salad packed with veggies and herbs complements the richness of the dish well.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter adds a lovely sweetness that balances out the savory flavors of the potatoes.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and herbs offer a vibrant side that pairs nicely.
- Cucumber Yogurt Salad: A cool cucumber salad dressed in yogurt provides a refreshing bite that contrasts wonderfully with warm baked feta potatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing baked feta potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some 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 to ensure a crispy exterior and tender interior.
- Overcrowding the baking dish: Placing too many potatoes in one dish can cause steaming instead of roasting. Make sure there’s enough space for air circulation around each potato.
- Ignoring seasoning balance: Using too little or too much salt can impact flavor. Measure your spices and seasonings carefully for the best taste.
- Not checking the feta: Forgetting to check the feta during baking can result in overcooking. Keep an eye on it to maintain its creamy texture.
- Neglecting fresh herbs: Skipping fresh basil will deprive your dish of vibrant flavor. Always add fresh herbs just before serving for a burst of freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store baked feta potatoes in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
- These can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat to 180C | 350F and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about baked feta potatoes that might help you with your cooking.
What are baked feta potatoes?
Baked feta potatoes are crispy roasted potatoes tossed with creamy baked feta cheese, herbs, and garlic, inspired by the popular baked feta pasta trend.
How do I make my potatoes extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispy baked feta potatoes, ensure they are well-par-boiled and spread out evenly on the baking tray without overcrowding.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! While feta adds a unique flavor, feel free to experiment with goat cheese or ricotta for different tastes in your baked feta potatoes.
What should I serve with baked feta potatoes?
These delicious baked feta potatoes pair well with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad, making them an excellent side dish for any meal.
Final Thoughts
Baked feta potatoes offer an incredible combination of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal. They’re versatile enough to customize with your favorite herbs or additional ingredients like cherry tomatoes or olives. Give this recipe a try and enjoy its warmth and comfort!
Baked Feta Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Feta Potatoes are a delightful fusion that elevates your dining experience with their rich, creamy feta cheese and perfectly roasted potatoes. Inspired by the viral baked feta pasta trend, this dish brings together crispy textures and savory flavors, making it an irresistible addition to any meal. With minimal prep time and ingredients, these flavorful potatoes not only complement grilled meats but also shine as a standalone vegetarian delight. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, Baked Feta Potatoes will surely impress everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 2 large baking potatoes
- 200g block of feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 head of garlic
- Fresh herbs (thyme, oregano, basil)
- Red chili flakes
- Lemon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 200C (390F).
- Wash and cube the potatoes; par-boil for 6-8 minutes.
- Toss par-boiled potatoes in olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper in a baking dish.
- Roast for 30-40 minutes until golden.
- Add feta cheese and roast for another 15 minutes.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the dish; mix in mashed garlic and fresh basil before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of the dish (approx. 150g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
