Crispy Baked Feta Potatoes

This oven-roasted feta potato dish transforms the viral baked feta pasta trend into a decadent side that combines crispy golden potatoes with creamy, melted feta cheese. The contrast between the fluffy interior of the potatoes and the tangy, rich feta creates an irresistible combination that elevates any meal.

I first made these potatoes for a dinner party when I needed an impressive side dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The empty dish and multiple recipe requests convinced me this would become a regular in my rotation.

Ingredients

• Baking potatoes: Choose starchy varieties like Russets or Idaho for the fluffiest interior and crispiest exterior
• Feta cheese block: Authentic Greek or Bulgarian varieties offer the best flavor and melt beautifully
• Olive oil: Use extra virgin for its robust flavor that complements the Mediterranean herbs
• Dried thyme: Adds earthy aromatic notes that pair wonderfully with potatoes
• Dried oregano: Provides classic Mediterranean flavor that enhances both the cheese and potatoes
• Garlic: A whole head becomes sweet and mellow when roasted adding depth to the final dish
• Lemon: The brightness cuts through the richness of the cheese and awakens all the flavors
• Honey: Just a touch balances the tangy feta and adds caramelized notes
• Fresh basil: Adds a final burst of color and herbaceous freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the potatoes:

Parboiling the potatoes before roasting is crucial for achieving that perfect texture. After washing and cubing them into even pieces about 1 inch in size cover them with cold water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook for 6 8 minutes until the edges just begin to soften. Drain thoroughly and allow them to steam dry for 2 3 minutes this creates tiny rough edges that will become extra crispy during roasting.

Season and begin roasting:

Toss the parboiled potatoes in a baking dish with olive oil and your dried herbs. The oil helps conduct heat evenly while the herbs infuse into the potatoes during the long roasting process. Ensure every piece is evenly coated for consistent flavor and texture. Roast at 200C for 30 40 minutes until the potatoes develop a beautiful golden crust but remain tender inside.

Add the feta:

Place your block of feta in the center of the dish surrounded by the partially roasted potatoes. I like to dip one side of the feta block into the seasoning mix before placing it cheese side down. This ensures the feta absorbs maximum flavor while it bakes. Squeeze half a lemon over everything the acid helps the feta melt more smoothly and adds brightness to counterbalance the rich cheese.

Finish and combine:

After the feta has baked for about 15 minutes and become soft and slightly golden remove from oven. The magic happens when you gently fold everything together allowing the creamy feta to coat each potato piece. Incorporate the roasted garlic paste for incredible depth of flavor and finish with fresh basil and a drizzle of honey to balance the savory elements with subtle sweetness.

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The roasted garlic makes this dish truly special. I discovered its importance accidentally when I once forgot to add it and the dish lacked that deep umami quality. Now I sometimes roast extra garlic cloves to spread on bread alongside these potatoes for an amazing accompaniment.

Make Ahead Tips

These potatoes can be parboiled up to two days in advance. Just drain cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to cook allow them to come to room temperature before proceeding with the recipe. The slight drying that happens in the refrigerator actually helps them become even crispier when roasted.

Perfect Pairings

These baked feta potatoes shine alongside grilled meats particularly lamb or chicken. The tangy cheese complements the richness of the meat while the herbs tie everything together. For a vegetarian meal serve with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette the acidity balances the richness of the potatoes beautifully.

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Creative Variations

This recipe welcomes personalization based on what you have available. Try swapping the feta for goat cheese for a creamier result or blue cheese for a more intense flavor profile. Mediterranean lovers can add olives sun dried tomatoes and capers during the final baking stage. For a spicier version increase the red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño before roasting.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I achieve extra crispy potatoes?

To achieve extra crispy potatoes, par-boil them, steam dry for a few minutes, and roast them in a hot oven with olive oil until golden and crispy.

→ Can I substitute feta cheese with another type?

Yes, you can substitute feta with halloumi, goat cheese, or even a vegan alternative that bakes well.

→ Why is garlic roasted separately?

Roasting garlic separately ensures it's soft and caramelized without burning, so you can mix it into the dish smoothly.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can roast the potatoes ahead and reheat them with the feta and herbs before serving.

→ What herbs can I use instead of basil?

If you don’t have basil, you can use parsley, cilantro, or even dill for a fresh and flavorful alternative.