Baked Feta Potatoes

These Baked Feta Potatoes are a delightful twist on the popular baked feta pasta trend. They serve as a rich and flavorful side dish, featuring crispy roasted potatoes enveloped in creamy baked feta cheese. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish combines simplicity with an impressive taste that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect even for beginner cooks.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of feta cheese, garlic, and herbs creates a savory experience that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Versatile Dish: Serve these baked feta potatoes alongside grilled meats, salads, or even as a standalone vegetarian meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make them ahead of time and reheat for a quick side during busy weeknights.
• Impressive Presentation: The golden crispy potatoes topped with melted feta make an attractive addition to any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make these baked feta potatoes, you’ll need some common kitchen tools to ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish
• Saucepan
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and allows the potatoes to crisp nicely.
• Saucepan: Par-boiling the potatoes in a saucepan helps achieve that perfect soft texture before roasting.
• Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting vegetables safely and efficiently.
• Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for chopping.

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. This ensures the potatoes will roast evenly.

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 (no more than 10), then drain them. Let them steam dry for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Season the Potatoes

Add the par-boiled potatoes to your baking dish along with the thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Stir well to coat each potato piece evenly with seasonings.

Step 4: Roast the Potatoes

Roast the seasoned potatoes in the preheated oven for about 30 – 40 minutes until they are golden brown and almost cooked through.

Step 5: Add Feta and Lemon

After roasting, place the block of feta in the center of the baking tray (you may dip one side in seasonings first). Squeeze over half of the lemon juice.

Step 6: Prepare Garlic

Remove the garlic from the dish. Once cooled slightly, squeeze out the softened garlic from its skins and mash it with a knife. Set aside.

Step 7: Final Roasting

Return the baking dish to the oven for another 15 minutes to allow everything to meld together beautifully.

Step 8: Mix Everything Together

Stir in the mashed garlic mixture along with juice from the remaining lemon half into your roasted potatoes. Gently mix everything using a spoon.

Step 9: Drizzle with Honey

Finally, drizzle honey over your baked feta potatoes and add shredded fresh basil on top.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve these delicious baked feta potatoes warm as a side or main dish, and enjoy every bite!

How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes are a delightful side dish that can complement various meals. Their rich flavor and crispy texture make them versatile for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Side to Grilled Meats

• Grilled Chicken: The creamy feta pairs wonderfully with the smoky flavor of grilled chicken.
• Lamb Chops: The Mediterranean notes in both dishes create a harmonious meal.
• Steak: Juicy steak and baked feta potatoes make for a hearty dinner.

With a Fresh Salad

• Greek Salad: The freshness of a Greek salad balances the richness of the potatoes.
• Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad adds a nice contrast to the flavors.
• Caprese Salad: The combination of tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella complements the dish well.

As Part of a Vegetarian Feast

• Roasted Vegetables: Pair with seasonal roasted veggies for a wholesome vegetarian meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers protein and freshness alongside the potatoes.

How to Perfect Baked Feta Potatoes

To ensure your baked feta potatoes turn out perfectly every time, follow these tips for best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and quality feta cheese enhance the flavors significantly.
• Par-Boil Carefully: Don’t overcook the potatoes when par-boiling; they should be just slightly tender.
• Season Generously: Seasoning is key. Make sure to coat the potatoes well with olive oil and herbs.
• Monitor Roasting Time: Keep an eye on them while roasting; you want them golden brown but not burnt.
• Mix Gently Post-Baking: When combining the garlic and basil, do so gently to avoid breaking apart the crispy potatoes.

Best Side Dishes for Baked Feta Potatoes

Baked feta potatoes pair beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some options that will complement their rich flavors.

1. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with baked feta potatoes.
2. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous with olives and tomatoes creates a nice balance of textures.
3. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice or quinoa bring vibrancy to your plate.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts offer an earthy flavor that complements the dish well.
5. Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the savory potatoes.
6. Tomato Basil Soup: A warm bowl of soup adds comfort and goes great with baked feta potatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making baked feta potatoes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the par-boil: Not par-boiling the potatoes can lead to uneven cooking. Always par-boil for 6-8 minutes before roasting.
• Overcrowding the baking dish: This prevents proper browning and crispiness. Use a large enough dish to allow space between the potatoes.
• Ignoring seasoning: Feta and herbs enhance flavor. Don’t forget to season your potatoes well before roasting.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Fresh basil and garlic add depth. Always opt for fresh over dried when possible for the best flavor.
• Underestimating cooling time: Letting the roasted garlic cool before handling is crucial for easy mashing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make sure the potatoes are completely cooled before sealing.

Freezing Baked Feta Potatoes

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Portion into smaller servings for easier thawing.

Reheating Baked Feta Potatoes

• Oven: Preheat to 180C | 350F and reheat for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, checking frequently, until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about baked feta potatoes.

What are Baked Feta Potatoes?

Baked feta potatoes are crispy roasted potatoes tossed with creamy baked feta cheese and herbs. They make a delightful side dish.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese or ricotta if you prefer a different flavor profile.

How do I customize my Baked Feta Potatoes?

Feel free to add vegetables such as cherry tomatoes or bell peppers before roasting for additional flavors and nutrients.

What should I serve with Baked Feta Potatoes?

These potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats, salads, or as part of a mezze platter.

Final Thoughts

Baked feta potatoes offer a rich and flavorful side dish that can complement many meals. Their versatility allows for endless customization, making them perfect for any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe and adjust it to your taste!