These Easy Baked Feta Potatoes bring a delicious twist to your dinner table! Tender potatoes are baked with creamy feta, garlic, and fresh herbs, making every bite flavorful.
I love how simple this dish is. Just pop it in the oven, and your kitchen will smell amazing. Perfect for a cozy night in or a friendly get-together with loved ones!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These are perfect for this dish due to their creamy texture when baked. You can use other potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes if needed. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Feta Cheese: Feta brings a tangy creaminess. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using a vegan feta or even a soft tofu blended with some lemon juice for a similar tangy taste.
Olive Oil: This adds great flavor and helps the potatoes crisp up nicely. You can substitute with avocado oil or melted butter if you prefer those flavors.
Garlic: Fresh garlic packs a punch, but garlic powder works in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if you have no fresh garlic on hand.
Herbs: Dried herbs work fine, but fresh herbs enhance flavor beautifully. If you’re missing any herbs, Italian seasoning can be a great all-in-one substitute.
How Can I Ensure My Potatoes Are Crispy and Tasty?
The key to getting crispy potatoes is all in the preparation and cooking method. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure the potatoes are cut evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Coat them well with olive oil and seasonings; this helps achieve that crispy texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking tray—give them space to roast rather than steam.
- Turning them halfway through cooking is crucial for even browning.
Lastly, adding the feta at the end ensures it gets warm and slightly golden but doesn’t dry out!
Easy Baked Feta Potatoes with Garlic and Herbs
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 7 oz (200g) feta cheese, crumbled or cubed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley sprigs for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 45 minutes to cook, giving a total time of about 55 minutes. Your patience will be rewarded with crispy, flavorful potatoes and creamy feta!
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is essential for ensuring that your potatoes cook evenly and become wonderfully crispy.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved baby potatoes with the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are well coated with the ingredients.
3. Spread on a Baking Tray:
Transfer the seasoned potatoes to a baking tray or ovenproof dish, spreading them out in a single layer. This allows them to cook evenly and prevents steaming.
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the tray in the oven and bake the potatoes for about 25-30 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, take them out and give them a good toss to ensure they brown evenly. They should be golden and tender when done.
5. Add the Feta:
Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven and scatter the crumbled or cubed feta cheese over the hot potatoes. This will allow the feta to melt and blend into the dish.
6. Bake Again:
Return the tray to the oven and bake for another 10-12 minutes. The feta should be warmed through and slightly golden on top, adding a delicious creaminess to your dish.
7. Garnish and Serve:
After baking, take the potatoes out of the oven and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired. Serve them warm as a delightful side dish or a tasty snack.
Enjoy your flavorful, creamy baked feta potatoes with the wonderful aroma of garlic and herbs filling your kitchen!
FAQ: Easy Baked Feta Potatoes with Garlic and Herbs
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are ideal, you can use Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or even fingerling potatoes. Just be sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make it dairy-free, try using a vegan feta cheese alternative. Alternatively, you can blend silken tofu with lemon juice and nutritional yeast for a creamy topping that gives a similar tang.
What Should I Do with Leftover Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best texture.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the mix! Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes and adjust the baking time as necessary based on their cooking requirements.
