Name: Baked Feta Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 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

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Introduction to Baked Feta Potatoes

Picture this: It’s a busy evening, and you’re scrambling for a delicious yet simple side dish. Enter Baked Feta Potatoes! These crispy little gems come to the rescue, combining the earthy comfort of potatoes with the tangy charm of feta. I absolutely adore this recipe, not just for its heavenly flavor but also for how effortlessly it fits into my chaotic schedule. With just a handful of ingredients and a sprinkle of love, you can whip up a dish that impresses loved ones and satisfies hungry bellies. Trust me, your family will be begging for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Baked Feta Potatoes

There’s something magical about Baked Feta Potatoes that makes me fall in love every time I prepare them. They’re not just quick to prep, but they also deliver an explosion of flavors that dances on your taste buds! Plus, the combination of crispy edges and creamy feta is pure bliss. These potatoes can easily elevate any meal, making dinner feel special without a mountain of effort. Who doesn’t deserve that?

Ingredients for Baked Feta Potatoes

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delightful Baked Feta Potatoes. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect blend of flavors!

Large baking potatoes – I love Yukon Golds or Russets for their fluffy texture.
Block of feta – Opt for high-quality feta; it brings a creaminess that simply melts in your mouth.
Olive oil – A splash adds richness and helps achieve that crispy finish. Extra virgin does wonders!
Dried thyme and oregano – These herbs deliver fragrant, earthy notes that perfectly complement the potatoes and feta.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for bringing all the flavors together. Don’t skip them!
Red chili flakes – For a delightful kick! Adjust to match your family’s spice tolerance.
Garlic – Oh, the aroma! Roasted garlic adds a sweet, mellow flavor; trust me, it’s a game-changer.
Lemon – Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish. The zest is a splendid touch, too!
Honey – Just a drizzle warms up those flavors, creating the perfect balance of savory and sweet.
Fresh basil – Use it for a pop of freshness; it’s like a garden hug for your potatoes!

For precise measurements, you’ll find all the details at the bottom of this article, ready for printing whenever you need them!

Baked Feta Potatoes – Crispy, Creamy & Bursting with Flavor!

How to Make Baked Feta Potatoes

Now, let’s get our hands a little dirty and make those irresistible Baked Feta Potatoes! Follow these simple steps, and I promise you’ll have a dish that steals the show. Each step is crafted to ensure you get the crispiest potatoes and perfectly baked feta!

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s preheat that oven to 200°C | 390°F. This is the magic number that creates the perfect environment for your potatoes to become crispy and golden. Preheating is like giving your dish a warm welcome!

Prepare Your Potatoes

While the oven warms up, grab those big potatoes. Wash them thoroughly, then cube them into bite-sized pieces. This size helps them cook evenly and get that wonderful texture. Now, toss those cubes into a saucepan filled with water and bring it to a boil.

Boiling and Cubing Tips

Par-boil the potatoes for 6 to 8 minutes. Just until they’re slightly tender but still firm. No more than 10 minutes, please! Drain them and let them sit for 2 to 3 minutes to steam dry. This little trick prevents sogginess and makes for super crispy edges later!

Season and Roast Potatoes

In a baking dish, toss your par-boiled potatoes with olive oil, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Ensure everything is coated evenly. This is where the flavors begin to meld, transforming your potatoes into something magical!

Ensuring Even Coating

Use your hands to mix. It’s fun, and you’ll feel like a cooking pro! The oil should glisten on the potato pieces, ready to roast. Spread them out in a single layer for that fantastic crispiness. Roast them for 30-40 minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy.

Add Feta and Lemon

When your potatoes are nearly done, it’s time for feta! Make a little space in the middle of the tray and carefully place the block of feta there. Squeeze half a lemon over everything. This brightens the dish, adding a zesty flare.

Timing is Key

Remember, the feta doesn’t need as much time in the oven as the potatoes. So, let it bake for just 15 more minutes. Trust me, you want perfectly melted feta that still holds its shape!

Incorporate Garlic

Don’t forget about your roasting garlic! Once that baking time is up, carefully remove the garlic head from the tray. Let it cool slightly, then squeeze the soft, sweet cloves out of their skins.

How to Mash Effectively

Use the flat side of your knife to mash those roasted cloves. It’s super easy! Set this garlic mash aside, as we’ll add it back in shortly for an explosion of flavor.

Final Bake

Put your dish back in the oven for a few more minutes. This final baking time is crucial for blending all those ingredients beautifully. Your kitchen will smell like heaven!

Achieving Perfect Texture

Take a moment to give everything a quick stir. This ensures that garlic mingles with the potatoes and feta nicely. The flavors will grow closer like old friends!

Stir and Serve

Once out of the oven, stir in the rest of the lemon juice and fresh basil. Drizzle honey over the top for that sweet touch to balance the dish’s savory notes. It’s time to serve!

Balancing Flavors

Garnish with extra basil if you’re feeling fancy. Serve hot, and watch your loved ones dig in with delight!

Tips for Success

Make sure to par-boil the potatoes! It guarantees a crispy outer layer.
Don’t skip the step of steaming them dry. It’s crucial for that crunch!
Feel free to mix in other herbs like rosemary for an extra flavor kick.
For a spicy twist, adjust chili flakes to your liking.
Try different types of cheese; goat cheese also works beautifully!

Equipment Needed for Baked Feta Potatoes

Baking dish – Any sturdy oven-safe dish will do! A cast-iron skillet is a great alternative.
saucepan – A medium-sized pot is perfect for boiling the potatoes.
Sharp knife – Essential for cubing and mashing the garlic.
Mixing spoon – Use a spatula to stir the potatoes and incorporate flavors.
Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot dishes!

Variations of Baked Feta Potatoes

Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or dill for a different twist.
Vegetable Medley: Add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini for a colorful veggie boost.
Whole30 Friendly: Skip the honey and use pure maple syrup for a natural sweetness.
Spiced Up: Swap out red chili flakes for za’atar or smoked paprika to elevate the flavor profile.
Cheese Lover’s Dream: Mix in crumbled goat cheese or parmesan for an extra cheesy experience.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a simple garden salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish for a protein-packed meal.
A glass of chilled white wine complements the flavors beautifully.
For presentation, garnish with extra fresh basil and a lemon wedge.

FAQs about Baked Feta Potatoes

Here are some common questions that pop up when making these Baked Feta Potatoes. I hope they help you on your culinary journey!

Can I use different types of potatoes?

Absolutely! While I love using Yukon Gold or Russets, feel free to experiment with red potatoes or sweet potatoes for a unique twist.

How can I make these potatoes ahead of time?

You can par-boil the potatoes and season them earlier, then store them in the fridge. When you’re ready, just pop them in the oven!

Can I substitute feta cheese?

Sure! If you’re not a fan of feta, goat cheese or creamy ricotta can offer a delightful alternative, adding their own unique flavor profiles.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

You bet! All the ingredients in Baked Feta Potatoes are naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect option for those with gluten sensitivities.

What’s a good way to enhance the flavor?

Try adding fresh herbs or citrus zest to elevate the taste even more. It adds an extra layer of freshness that brightens the dish beautifully!

Final Thoughts

Creating Baked Feta Potatoes is more than just following a recipe; it’s about bringing joy to your dinner table. The crispy edges combined with the creamy, tangy feta feel like a warm hug for my taste buds. Every bite transports me to Mediterranean shores, even if my kitchen is the closest thing to vacation. During busy evenings, this dish stands as a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking. Your loved ones will rave about it, and you’ll find yourself smiling through every delightful morsel. Give this recipe a go—you won’t regret it!