If you’ve been searching for a showstopper side dish that combines creamy, salty, tangy, and crispy all in one bite, then you’re going to love this Baked Feta Potatoes Recipe. It’s the ultimate comfort food with a Mediterranean twist, featuring tender golden potatoes roasted to perfection around a luscious block of feta cheese that softens and browns in the oven. With simple herbs, a splash of lemon, and a touch of honey to balance it all out, this recipe never fails to impress whether it’s a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Baked Feta Potatoes Recipe shines because the ingredients are uncomplicated yet each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the starchiness of baking potatoes to the creamy saltiness of feta, and the aromatic herbs that bring everything alive, you’ll appreciate how these essentials come together so effortlessly.
- 2 large baking potatoes: The hearty base that becomes crispy on the outside and fluffy inside.
- 200g block of feta: Adds that rich, tangy creaminess that melts into the potatoes.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the potatoes roast to a golden, flavorful crisp.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Brings a subtle earthy note with a hint of minty freshness.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Offers a fragrant herbal depth typical of Mediterranean cooking.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for rounding out and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
- 0.5 tsp red chilli flakes: Introduces a light kick that wakes up the palate.
- 1 head of garlic (top cut off): Roasting softens the garlic into a sweet, spreadable delight.
- 1 lemon, quartered: Fresh citrus brightness to balance the rich feta and potatoes.
- 1 tbsp honey: A drizzle of sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory notes.
- 1/4 cup (20g) fresh basil: Adds vibrant color and a burst of aromatic freshness.
How to Make Baked Feta Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F). While it’s warming up, wash and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Par-boiling them for 6 to 8 minutes is key to getting that perfect luscious interior because it kickstarts the cooking, ensuring the roasting time crisps them beautifully without drying them out.
Step 2: Season and Roast Potatoes
Drain and steam dry your par-boiled potatoes for a few minutes so they’re ready to take on flavor. Toss them in a baking dish with olive oil, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure each cube is well-coated because this seasoning layer is where the magic begins. Roast the potatoes for about 30 to 40 minutes until they’re golden, crisp, and tender inside.
Step 3: Add Feta and Garlic
Once your potatoes look perfectly roasted, nestle your block of feta into the center of the dish. You can dip one side of the feta into some seasonings before flipping it over for extra flavor. Squeeze half a lemon over everything for a lovely citrus kick, then pop the whole garlic head you prepped earlier into the dish as well (it mellows beautifully in the heat). Return to the oven for another 15 minutes so the feta softens and the garlic roasts to silky sweetness.
Step 4: Mix in Garlic, Basil, and Finish
Remove the garlic from the oven, let it cool slightly, then squeeze the soft roasted garlic out of its skins and mash it gently. Stir the garlic together with the fresh basil and the juice of the remaining lemon into the potatoes and baked feta. Give everything a gentle toss to blend those wonderful flavors. Lastly, drizzle over the honey to add a hint of sweetness that contrasts with the salty feta perfectly. Now it’s ready to serve!
How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped basil is ideal for garnishing this dish, adding a burst of color and fragrance that elevates every bite. You can also sprinkle some extra red chili flakes if you enjoy an extra hint of spice after baking. A wedge of lemon on the side never hurts either for squeezing fresh brightness at the table.
Side Dishes
This Baked Feta Potatoes Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled meats or roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. It also complements lighter proteins like lemony chicken or fish, thanks to its rich yet balanced flavors. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad to balance out the indulgence with fresh, crunchy bites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual dinner, serve the potatoes directly in the baking dish for a rustic feel that invites sharing. Alternatively, plate it up with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for an elevated presentation. You could even serve it as a centerpiece for a mezze platter alongside olives, flatbreads, and roasted veggies for a Mediterranean feast vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers of this Baked Feta Potatoes Recipe should be cooled to room temperature before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to three days and actually taste even better because the flavors deepen overnight.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the dish, it’s best to do so without the fresh basil and honey drizzle, which you can add when reheating. Freeze in a tightly sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat the potatoes in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. You can also reheat in a microwave, but it might soften the crispy edges. After reheating, refresh the dish by stirring in fresh basil and a light drizzle of honey.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta?
Feta is ideal for this recipe because it softens without melting completely, keeping its tangy and salty character. However, you could experiment with halloumi or goat cheese for a different texture, but the flavor profile will vary.
What kind of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Large baking potatoes are perfect since they have a fluffy interior and crisp up nicely on the outside. You could try Yukon Gold or Russet varieties, but avoid waxy potatoes that don’t crisp as well.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
You can swap the feta for a plant-based cheese alternative that holds shape when baked, but the flavor will differ. Roasted garlic, herbs, and lemon still make it delicious, so go for a vegan cheese that you love.
How spicy is this dish with the chili flakes?
The red chili flakes add a gentle warmth, not overwhelming heat. You can adjust the amount to your preference or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder version.
Can I prepare parts of the recipe in advance?
Yes! You can par-boil and season the potatoes ahead of time, then store them in the fridge until ready to roast. Add the feta, garlic, and final touches just before baking so everything stays fresh and vibrant.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy to prepare yet wow-worthy in flavor, this Baked Feta Potatoes Recipe should be your next go-to. It’s a delicious treat that feels special without complicated steps, and it’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with those golden potatoes wrapped around creamy baked feta. Trust me, once you make this, it’ll become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
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Baked Feta Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Feta Potatoes is a delicious and comforting dish featuring crispy roasted potatoes flavored with aromatic herbs and spices, topped with creamy baked feta cheese, roasted garlic, fresh basil, and a drizzle of honey for a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 large baking potatoes
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) to ensure it is hot enough for roasting the potatoes to a golden, crispy finish.
- Par-boil Potatoes: Wash and cube the potatoes, then place them in a saucepan and cover with water. Bring to a boil and par-boil for 6-8 minutes (no more than 10 minutes). Drain the potatoes and steam dry them for 2-3 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Season Potatoes: Transfer the potatoes to a baking dish. Add thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and olive oil. Toss gently, coating the potatoes evenly with the herbs and oil.
- Roast Potatoes: Place the baking dish in the oven and roast the potatoes for 30 to 40 minutes until they turn golden and crispy and are nearly cooked through.
- Add Feta and Lemon: Nestle the block of feta in the center of the potatoes, seasoning one side if desired by dipping it in the seasoning mix and flipping it over. Squeeze half the lemon over the feta and potatoes.
- Prepare Garlic: Remove the garlic head from the baking dish. Once cooled, squeeze the softened garlic cloves out of their skins and mash them with the flat side of a knife. Set this mashed garlic aside.
- Continue Baking: Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the feta to bake and flavors to meld.
- Mix Garlic, Lemon, and Basil: Remove the dish from the oven. Stir the mashed garlic and juice from the remaining half of the lemon back into the potatoes along with the fresh basil. Use a spoon to gently combine the ingredients with the baked feta and potatoes.
- Finish with Honey and Basil: Drizzle honey over the potatoes and sprinkle with shredded fresh basil for a touch of sweetness and fresh herbaceous flavor.
- Serve: Serve the baked feta potatoes warm and enjoy this comforting Mediterranean-inspired dish.
Notes
- Par-boiling the potatoes before roasting ensures they cook evenly and become perfectly crispy outside while staying tender inside.
- Adjust the amount of red chili flakes based on your preferred spice level.
- Using fresh herbs like basil at the end enhances the freshness and aroma of the dish.
- Honey adds a subtle sweetness that complements the tanginess of feta and lemon juice.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
