Baked Feta Potatoes
These Baked Feta Potatoes are a delightful twist on classic roasted potatoes, inspired by the viral baked feta pasta trend. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a cozy family meal, or bringing a tasty side to a summer barbecue. With their crispy exterior and creamy feta cheese, these potatoes are sure to impress your guests and become a new favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of baked feta and roasted garlic creates a creamy, savory delight that elevates simple potatoes.
- Easy to Make: With just a few steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delicious side dish with ease.
- Versatile Dish: These baked feta potatoes pair wonderfully with various main courses, making them suitable for any meal.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh herbs and wholesome potatoes, this dish offers comfort without compromising on nutrition.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, these potatoes are sure to satisfy both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to make your experience smooth and enjoyable. Having the right equipment can significantly enhance your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking dish
- Saucepan
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking dish: Ensures even cooking and allows for easy mixing of ingredients.
- Saucepan: Perfect for par-boiling the potatoes before roasting, which helps achieve that crispy texture.
- Knife: Essential for cutting the potatoes and preparing garlic with precision.
- Mixing spoon: Helps in evenly coating the potatoes with oil and seasonings for enhanced flavor.
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
- 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 Mixture
- 1 200g block of feta
- 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 step ensures that your baked feta potatoes cook evenly from the start.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- Wash and cube your large baking 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 minutes).
- Drain and let steam dry for 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
- Transfer the par-boiled potatoes to your baking dish.
- Add dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and olive oil.
- Stir well to coat all the potato pieces evenly.
Step 4: Roast Until Crispy
Roast the seasoned potatoes in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes until they are golden brown and nearly cooked through.
Step 5: Add Feta Cheese
Place the feta cheese block in the center of your baking dish. Optionally dip one side in seasonings before flipping it over. Squeeze half of your quartered lemon over it.
Step 6: Prepare Garlic
Remove the head of garlic from the baking dish once cooled. Squeeze out roasted garlic cloves from their skins into a mixing bowl; mash with a knife.
Step 7: Final Roast
Return your baking dish to the oven for another 15 minutes until everything is beautifully roasted.
Step 8: Combine & Serve
- Mix in your mashed garlic along with juice from the remaining lemon half into the roasted potatoes.
- Add fresh basil leaves gently mixing everything together.
Step 9: Drizzle Honey & Garnish
Drizzle honey over your baked feta potatoes. Finish by topping with shredded basil just before serving.
Step 10: Enjoy!
Serve warm as an irresistible side dish that’s bound to steal the show!
How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes
Baked feta potatoes are a delightful side dish that can complement various meals. Their rich flavors and creamy feta make them versatile enough for different occasions.
With Grilled Meats
- Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers seasoned with herbs pair beautifully with the creamy texture of baked feta potatoes.
- Lamb Chops: The robust flavor of grilled lamb chops enhances the savory taste of the potatoes, making for an excellent combination.
As a Standalone Dish
- Salad Bowl: Serve the baked feta potatoes on a bed of fresh greens topped with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.
- Vegetable Platter: Pair them with roasted seasonal vegetables for a satisfying vegetarian option.
With Dipping Sauces
- Tzatziki Sauce: This cool yogurt sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the warm and cheesy potatoes.
- Spicy Aioli: For those who love heat, serve with a spicy aioli to elevate the flavors of the dish.
How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes
To achieve perfectly baked feta potatoes, follow these simple tips that enhance flavor and texture.
- Choose Quality Feta: Use high-quality feta cheese for a richer flavor that melts beautifully.
- Cut Potatoes Evenly: Ensure your potato cubes are uniform in size to promote even cooking and crispness.
- Don’t Skimp on Olive Oil: A generous drizzle of olive oil will help achieve that desired golden, crispy exterior.
- Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to try different herbs like rosemary or parsley for added depth in flavor.
- Check for Crispiness: Keep an eye on your potatoes during roasting; they should be golden brown and crispy before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes
Baked feta potatoes can be enjoyed alongside various dishes. Here are some great options to consider:
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like zucchini and bell peppers bring freshness and color to your meal.
- Roasted Chicken Thighs: Flavorful roasted chicken thighs provide a hearty protein option that complements the potatoes well.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a healthy balance to your plate.
- Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice, beans, and spices add an exciting twist to your dinner spread.
- Spinach and Feta Pie: This savory pie echoes the flavors of baked feta while providing an additional layer of cheese!
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with dill and yogurt is perfect for cutting through the richness of the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making baked feta potatoes, it’s easy to overlook some important steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
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Skipping the par-boiling step: Failing to par-boil your potatoes can result in uneven cooking. Always par-boil for 6-8 minutes to ensure they cook through properly.
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Not seasoning adequately: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to coat your potatoes well with olive oil and spices before roasting.
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Using low-quality feta: Using subpar feta can affect taste and texture. Opt for a good quality block of feta for the best creamy results.
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Overcrowding the baking dish: Crowding can steam the potatoes instead of roasting them. Ensure there’s enough space between each potato for even cooking.
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Neglecting to mash the garlic: Skipping this step can result in chunks of garlic rather than a flavorful spread. Always mash it into a paste for better integration with the dish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store baked feta potatoes in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes
- Allow the baked feta potatoes to cool completely before freezing.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, where they will last up to 2 months.
Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 180C | 350F, place the potatoes on a baking tray, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed evenly.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about baked feta potatoes, here are answers to some common questions.
What are Baked Feta Potatoes?
Baked feta potatoes are crispy roasted potatoes tossed with creamy baked feta cheese. They are flavorful and make a great side dish.
Can I customize my Baked Feta Potatoes?
Absolutely! You can add different herbs like rosemary or parsley, or mix in other vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added flavor.
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 when cooked properly.
Are Baked Feta Potatoes healthy?
Yes! These potatoes offer a balance of carbohydrates from the potatoes and protein from the feta. They make a satisfying side that fits well into many diets.
Final Thoughts
Baked feta potatoes are not just delicious; they bring comfort and joy to any meal. With their rich flavors and crispy texture, they make an ideal side dish for various occasions. Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite herbs or veggies!
Baked Feta Potatoes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Description
Baked Feta Potatoes offer a deliciously modern twist on classic roasted potatoes. Inspired by the viral baked feta pasta trend, these crispy potatoes feature creamy feta cheese and roasted garlic for a savory delight that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a family dinner, a summer barbecue, or as a crowd-pleasing side dish, this recipe is sure to impress. Simple to prepare and packed with rich flavors, Baked Feta Potatoes are not only satisfying but also healthy, making them an ideal addition to your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the perfect combination of textures and tastes that will steal the spotlight at your next meal!
Ingredients
- 2 large baking potatoes
- 200g block of feta cheese
- 1 head of garlic
- 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 lemon, quartered
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/4 cup fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200C (390F).
- Wash and cube the baking potatoes. Par-boil in water for 6-8 minutes; drain and let steam dry.
- In a baking dish, combine par-boiled potatoes with olive oil, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 30-40 minutes until golden brown.
- Add the feta cheese block and squeezed lemon over the potatoes.
- Roast for an additional 15 minutes.
- Mash roasted garlic cloves and mix with potatoes before serving.
- Drizzle honey over the dish and garnish with fresh basil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
