These Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes are a warm, cheesy delight! With creamy feta cheese melting over fluffy potatoes, this dish is comfort food at its best.
Honestly, who could resist that gooey cheese? I love serving these with a sprinkle of herbs on top—it makes them look fancy! Give them a try for an easy, cheesy side dish!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: I love baby potatoes for their creaminess when baked. If you’re short on time, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes, just cut them into uniform sizes for even cooking.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds great flavor and creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using almond feta or cashew cheese to mimic that creamy texture.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps crisp the potatoes. You could substitute with avocado oil for a different flavor profile or if you need it to be higher smoke point.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a lovely aroma. For convenience, garlic powder could work if you’re in a pinch, but fresh garlic truly shines in this recipe.
Herbs: I prefer using dried thyme and oregano, but feel free to switch it up with Italian seasoning or use fresh herbs for an even bolder flavor. Fresh rosemary or parsley can also add a nice twist!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Crispy Potatoes?
Getting those potatoes crispy is crucial! Here’s how I do it:
- Use a good amount of olive oil and be sure to coat all potatoes evenly.
- Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding them can make them steam instead of crisping up.
- Don’t skip turning them halfway! This helps them brown evenly on all sides.
- Keep an eye on them in the last few minutes of baking, as ovens vary. You want them golden and tender!
Following these tips will lead to perfectly crisp and delicious potatoes every time! Enjoy your baking adventure!
Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 1.5 lbs baby potatoes (halved or quartered if large)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme (plus extra fresh thyme sprigs for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Feta:
- 8 oz feta cheese, cut into cubes
- Optional: 1 tbsp lemon juice for a little brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 40-45 minutes for baking, plus some additional time if you choose to let the dish cool before serving. In total, you’re looking at about an hour of time for a delicious side or main dish that will impress everyone!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start off by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready for the potatoes as soon as you’re done prepping!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash your baby potatoes thoroughly and then cut them in half or into quarters if they are large. This way, they will cook evenly and absorb all those delightful flavors.
3. Season the Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved potatoes with the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are well-coated and seasoned.
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly on a baking sheet or oven-safe dish. Give them room to breathe; this helps them get crispy. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly and start to turn golden brown.
5. Add the Feta:
Once the potatoes are tender and golden, take them out of the oven and sprinkle the cubes of feta cheese evenly over the top. It’s like adding delicious little pockets of creaminess!
6. Finish Baking:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes. This time allows the feta to get soft and slightly golden, creating an amazing texture and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re done baking, take the dish out of the oven and sprinkle fresh thyme sprigs on top for a lovely garnish. Optionally, you can drizzle some lemon juice over the dish for a fresh zing before serving. Enjoy your warm and cheesy potatoes as a delightful side or as a light main dish!
This recipe will give you crispy, golden potatoes with creamy, tangy feta, perfectly blended and sprinkled with fragrant herbs. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While baby potatoes are great for their creaminess, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes as well. Just make sure to cut them into uniform sizes for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you need a dairy-free option, try using almond feta or cashew cheese. For a different flavor profile, goat cheese works well too!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of olive oil to keep them moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the potatoes a few hours in advance, season them, and keep them covered in the fridge. Just bake them fresh with the feta when you’re ready to serve for best results!
