Baked Feta Potatoes

These Baked Feta Potatoes are a delightful side dish that elevates any meal with their rich flavors. Inspired by the viral baked feta pasta trend, this recipe combines crispy roasted potatoes with creamy, baked feta cheese. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or simply as a comforting treat, these potatoes will impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This dish requires minimal effort and time while delivering maximum flavor.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of roasted garlic, tangy feta, and fresh basil creates a delicious taste experience.
• Versatile Side Dish: These baked feta potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats, salads, or can be enjoyed on their own.
• Crowd-Pleaser: They are sure to impress guests at dinner parties or family meals.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients, they fit well into various dietary plans.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare these baked feta potatoes effectively, having the right tools will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Saucepan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Oven mitts

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A good baking dish ensures even cooking and browning of the potatoes.
• Saucepan: Used for par-boiling the potatoes before roasting, which is key to achieving the perfect texture.
• Knife: Essential for chopping the potatoes and preparing garlic and herbs.

Ingredients

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
• 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.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

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

Step 3: Season and Roast

• Place the par-boiled potatoes in your baking dish.
• Sprinkle in thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and drizzle with olive oil.
• Stir well to coat each potato evenly.
• Roast in the oven for 30 – 40 minutes until golden brown and almost cooked through.

Step 4: Add Feta and Lemon

• After roasting, place the feta block in the middle of the tray. Optionally dip one side in seasonings before flipping it over.
• Squeeze half of the lemon over the feta.

Step 5: Roast Garlic

Remove the garlic from its skins after it has cooled slightly. Mash it lightly with a knife; set aside for later use.

Step 6: Final Roasting

Return the baking dish to the oven for an additional 15 minutes until everything is golden and fragrant.

Step 7: Combine Flavors

Stir in your mashed garlic along with juice from the remaining half of lemon into the roasted potatoes. Gently mix everything together with fresh basil.

Step 8: Drizzle and Serve

Drizzle honey over the top and add some shredded basil for an extra touch. Serve warm as an exquisite side dish!

How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes are a delightful side dish that can complement a variety of meals. They add a rich, savory flavor that enhances any dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

As a Side with Grilled Meats

• Chicken Skewers – Pair these potatoes with juicy chicken skewers for a delicious barbecue combo.
• Lamb Chops – The robust flavors of lamb beautifully contrast with the creamy feta and crispy potatoes.

With Fresh Salads

• Greek Salad – Serve alongside a refreshing Greek salad for added crunch and zest.
• Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad can balance the richness of the baked feta potatoes.

As Part of a Mediterranean Feast

• Hummus Platter – Include a platter of hummus and pita to create a vibrant Mediterranean spread.
• Stuffed Peppers – Complement your baked feta potatoes with colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice and herbs.

How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes

Perfecting baked feta potatoes involves attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and high-quality feta will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Par-boil Correctly – Ensure you don’t overcook the potatoes during par-boiling; they should be just tender but not falling apart.
• Adjust Cooking Time – Keep an eye on your oven; cooking times may vary based on potato size and oven type.
• Mix Flavors Well – Gently mix in the garlic and lemon juice after baking for maximum flavor infusion.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to adjust the spices or add more heat according to your preference.
• Serve Immediately – Best enjoyed hot out of the oven for that crispy texture!

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes can stand alone as a delicious dish, but they pair wonderfully with various sides. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Grilled Vegetables – A medley of seasonal vegetables grilled until tender adds color and nutrition.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy Brussels sprouts provide a lovely crunch and earthy flavor that complements the potatoes.
3. Tzatziki Sauce – This cool cucumber yogurt dip is great for balancing the warmth of baked feta potatoes.
4. Pita Bread – Warm pita bread works wonderfully to scoop up any leftover feta and garlic mix.
5. Roasted Chicken Thighs – Juicy roasted chicken thighs create a hearty meal when served together with the potatoes.
6. Spinach and Feta Pie – A slice of this savory pie pairs well, enhancing the Greek theme while adding extra cheese!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making baked feta potatoes, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Ignoring potato size: Using potatoes of different sizes can lead to uneven cooking. Always try to use similar-sized potatoes for consistent results.
• Not par-boiling: Skipping the par-boiling step can result in undercooked or tough potatoes. Make sure to par-boil them for 6-8 minutes before roasting.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: Placing too many potatoes in one dish can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Ensure there’s enough space for air circulation.
• Using old feta cheese: Fresh feta will give your dish the best flavor and texture. Always check the expiration date before using.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season properly can make your baked feta potatoes bland. Don’t skip adding salt, pepper, and herbs for flavor enhancement.
• Skipping fresh herbs: While dried herbs work, fresh basil elevates the dish’s taste significantly. Always add fresh herbs right before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store baked feta potatoes in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or bag, and they can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 180C | 350F. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about baked feta potatoes, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries answered.

How do I make baked feta potatoes gluten-free?

Baked feta potatoes are naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any additional ingredients used are also gluten-free.

Can I customize my baked feta potatoes?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or use different herbs according to your taste preferences.

What can I serve with baked feta potatoes?

These delicious baked feta potatoes pair well with grilled meats, salads, or as part of a Mediterranean platter.

How do I know when my baked feta potatoes are done?

They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while being tender inside. A fork should easily pierce through them.

Are baked feta potatoes healthy?

With wholesome ingredients like olive oil and fresh herbs, these baked feta potatoes can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Final Thoughts

Baked feta potatoes are a delightful side dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Their versatility allows you to customize them based on seasonal ingredients or personal preferences. Whether served at a family gathering or as part of a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please your taste buds!