Baked Feta Potatoes
These Baked Feta Potatoes are not just a side dish; they’re a culinary experience that combines crispy potatoes with the creamy richness of baked feta cheese. Inspired by the viral baked feta pasta trend, this dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy gatherings with friends. The combination of herbs and spices elevates the flavor, making it a standout on any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this delicious side dish ready in no time.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of roasted garlic, fresh basil, and tangy lemon makes every bite unforgettable.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pair these baked feta potatoes with any protein for a complete meal or serve them as a standalone treat at your next gathering.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like olive oil and fresh herbs, this recipe is nutritious without sacrificing taste.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the dish make it visually appealing, sure to impress your guests.
Tools and Preparation
Before you embark on making these baked feta potatoes, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly roasted potatoes and melted feta.
- Saucepan: Ideal for par-boiling the potatoes, ensuring they cook evenly in the oven.
- Knife: Essential for chopping ingredients like potatoes and garlic with precision.
- Mixing spoon: Helps mix all the flavors together seamlessly.
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 and Feta
- 2 large baking potatoes
- 1 200g block of feta
Seasonings and Oils
- 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 and Fresh Elements
- 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.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and cube your potatoes. Add them to a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil. Par-boil the potatoes for 6-8 minutes (no more than 10), then drain and steam dry for 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
Add the potatoes to your baking dish along with thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Stir them well to coat evenly.
Step 4: Roast Until Crispy
Roast the potatoes for 30-40 minutes until they are golden brown and almost cooked through.
Step 5: Add Feta Cheese
Place the feta in the middle of the tray (dipping one side in seasonings can enhance flavor). Squeeze half of the lemon over it.
Step 6: Prepare Garlic
Remove the garlic from the dish. Once cooled, squeeze out the garlic from its skins and mash it with the flat side of a knife. Set aside.
Step 7: Continue Roasting
Put the dish back into the oven for another 15 minutes.
Step 8: Mix in Flavors
Stir in the garlic mixture along with juice from the remaining half of lemon into your roasted potatoes. Add fresh basil gently mixing them together with a spoon.
Step 9: Finish Off with Honey
Drizzle honey over everything along with shredded basil for added flavor.
Step 10: Serve
Serve your baked feta potatoes warm and enjoy this delightful dish!
How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes
Baked feta potatoes are a delightful side dish that pairs well with various main courses. Here are a few serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.
With Grilled Chicken
- Juicy grilled chicken breasts complement the creamy feta and crispy potatoes perfectly, making for a balanced meal.
As Part of a Mediterranean Platter
- Include baked feta potatoes in a vibrant Mediterranean platter alongside hummus, olives, and pita bread for a flavorful experience.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish the potatoes with fresh herbs like parsley or dill to enhance their flavor and add a pop of color.
As a Standalone Light Meal
- Serve baked feta potatoes with a simple green salad for a light yet satisfying vegetarian meal option.
Accompanied by Tzatziki Sauce
- A cool tzatziki sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory flavors of the baked feta potatoes.
How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes
To ensure your baked feta potatoes turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Choose the right potatoes: Opt for starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds for the best texture.
- Par-boil carefully: Make sure not to overcook the potatoes during par-boiling; they should be tender but not fully cooked.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish: Give the potatoes room in the dish so they roast evenly and become crispy.
- Use high-quality feta: A good block of feta will melt beautifully and provide rich flavor; avoid crumbled varieties.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to tweak herbs and spices based on your taste preferences for added flair.
- Let them rest: Allowing the potatoes to sit for a few minutes after baking intensifies the flavors before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes
These baked feta potatoes can be complemented by several tasty side dishes. Consider these options to round out your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil adds color and nutrition.
- Greek Salad: Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and olives provide a fresh contrast to the creamy feta.
- Grilled Shrimp Skewers: Seasoned shrimp offer protein and pair beautifully with the flavors of the baked feta.
- Lemon Herb Quinoa: This light grain dish brings zesty notes that complement the rich potatoes.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Filling bell peppers with rice or quinoa makes for an eye-catching and hearty side.
- Spinach Feta Pie: An alternative way to enjoy feta that echoes the flavors found in baked feta potatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making baked feta potatoes, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- Skipping the Par-boiling Step: Failing to par-boil your potatoes can lead to uneven cooking. Always par-boil for 6-8 minutes for consistent texture.
- Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoned potatoes can taste bland. Make sure to use the recommended thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper generously.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold feta or garlic to hot potatoes can affect the dish’s overall flavor. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before baking.
- Overcrowding the Baking Dish: Packing too many potatoes in one dish can result in sogginess. Spread them out evenly for optimal crispiness.
- Neglecting Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor. Don’t skip this step; add it just before serving for the best taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Allow the baked feta potatoes to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Consider portioning them into smaller containers for easy reheating.
Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 180C | 350F and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan over medium heat and stir occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about baked feta potatoes:
What are Baked Feta Potatoes?
Baked feta potatoes are crispy roasted potatoes combined with creamy baked feta cheese, creating a rich and flavorful side dish.
Can I customize Baked Feta Potatoes?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
How do I know when my Baked Feta Potatoes are done?
Baked feta potatoes are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside, and tender inside.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
Yes, you can substitute feta with goat cheese or ricotta, but the flavor will be different from traditional baked feta potatoes.
Final Thoughts
Baked feta potatoes are an irresistible side dish that combines comfort with a touch of elegance. Their versatility allows you to customize them based on your taste preferences or seasonal ingredients. Whether served at a dinner party or as a cozy family meal, these baked feta potatoes will surely delight everyone at your table!
Baked Feta Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Baked Feta Potatoes are a delightful fusion of crispy roasted potatoes and rich, creamy feta cheese, perfect for any occasion. This recipe takes inspiration from the viral baked feta pasta trend, transforming it into a stunning side dish that will impress your family and friends. The combination of fragrant herbs, tangy lemon, and sweet honey elevates the flavors, making every bite an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re serving them at a cozy dinner, potluck, or holiday gathering, these baked feta potatoes are sure to become a new favorite on your table.
Ingredients
- 2 large baking potatoes
- 1 block (200g) feta cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 head of garlic
- Fresh basil (1/4 cup)
- 1 lemon (quartered)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 tsp red chili flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200C (390F).
- Wash and cube the potatoes; par-boil in water for 6-8 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and place them in a baking dish with olive oil and seasonings; roast for 30-40 minutes until golden.
- Add the feta cheese to the center of the dish and roast for another 15 minutes.
- Mash roasted garlic and mix it with lemon juice; stir this into the potatoes along with 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 recipe (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
