Crispy Potatoes with Baked Feta

This creamy, Mediterranean-inspired baked feta potato dish transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful side that pairs with practically anything. The magic happens when the salty feta melts into the crispy potatoes, creating a rich sauce that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.

I first made these potatoes when looking for something different to serve with grilled chicken, and they've become a weekly request in our household. The combination of crispy potatoes with creamy feta creates such a delightful texture contrast that even my cheese-skeptical teenager asks for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 to 2 large baking potatoes Choose starchy varieties like Russets for the crispiest exterior
• 200g block of feta Use authentic Greek feta for the creamiest texture and best flavor
• 2 tablespoons olive oil Opt for extra virgin for more robust Mediterranean flavor
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme Adds earthy notes that complement the cheese perfectly
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano Provides classic Mediterranean flavor that stands up to the feta
• 1 teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors but adjust based on the saltiness of your feta
• 1 teaspoon black pepper Freshly ground offers the best aromatic quality
• 1 head of garlic top cut off The roasted cloves become spreadably sweet and mellow
• 1 lemon quartered The acidity balances the richness of the cheese beautifully
• 1 tablespoon honey Adds unexpected complexity that enhances the caramelization
• 1/4 cup fresh basil The bright herbaceous finish cuts through the richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Oven

Set your oven to 200°C or 390°F so it has ample time to reach temperature while you prep ingredients. A fully preheated oven ensures even cooking and proper caramelization.

Prepare The Potatoes

Wash potatoes thoroughly and cube them into roughly 1-inch pieces for optimal crispness. Smaller cubes cook faster and develop more crispy surfaces, while larger pieces stay creamier inside.

Season The Base

Toss potato cubes with thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and half the olive oil, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. This foundational seasoning infuses the potatoes with flavor as they roast.

Arrange Your Dish

Place the feta block in the center of your baking dish surrounded by the seasoned potatoes. First dip one side of the feta in the seasonings on the potatoes before flipping it over to ensure the cheese picks up flavors from both sides.

Add Aromatics

Position the garlic head and lemon quarters among the potatoes, then drizzle everything with the remaining olive oil. The garlic and lemon will slowly release their flavors as they roast.

Bake To Perfection

Roast for 45-55 minutes until potatoes develop a golden crust and the feta becomes soft and slightly browned. Check the garlic after 35 minutes and remove it if it's getting too dark.

Prepare The Garlic

Once cooled slightly, squeeze the soft, caramelized garlic cloves from their papery skins and mash them with a knife to create a paste. This roasted garlic adds incredible depth to the dish.

Combine Elements

Gently fold together the roasted potatoes, melted feta, mashed garlic, fresh lemon juice, and torn basil leaves. The key is mixing enough to distribute the flavors while maintaining some texture contrast.

Finish With Flair

Drizzle the honey over the mixture just before serving and scatter additional fresh basil on top. The honey provides a subtle sweetness that enhances the caramelized notes.

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The first time I made this dish, I almost skipped the honey thinking it would be too sweet. That would have been a mistake! The honey doesn't make the dish sweet at all, but rather creates this magical balance with the salty feta and acidic lemon that makes every bite completely addictive.

Make-Ahead Options

This dish reheats beautifully and can be prepared up to two days in advance. For best results, store the cooked potatoes and feta mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through. Add the fresh basil only after reheating to maintain its vibrant color and flavor. The flavors actually develop nicely overnight, making this an excellent option for entertaining.

Variations Worth Trying

The basic formula of this dish lends itself to countless variations. For a Spanish twist, substitute manchego for feta and add smoked paprika to the seasoning mix. Looking for more protein? Add cannellini beans during the last 10 minutes of baking for a complete meal. In summer, try adding cherry tomatoes to the roasting pan for bursts of juicy sweetness. For holiday gatherings, rosemary and thyme make this dish feel more festive and pair beautifully with turkey or ham.

Serving Suggestions

These potatoes shine when paired with simply grilled proteins like chicken thighs, lamb chops, or fish. The rich, creamy sauce also works wonderfully alongside anything with Mediterranean flavors. For a complete vegetarian meal, serve with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The potatoes also make an unexpected but delicious brunch option topped with a fried egg, where the runny yolk creates an even more indulgent sauce when mixed with the feta.

Troubleshooting Tips

Occasionally, potatoes may take longer to cook depending on their moisture content and how they're cut. If your potatoes need more time but the feta is perfectly done, simply remove the feta, cover it with foil to keep warm, and continue roasting the potatoes until they reach your desired crispness. Adding a splash of water to the dish when reheating prevents the potatoes from drying out while still maintaining their texture.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use different types of potatoes for this dish?

Yes, while the recipe calls for baking potatoes, you can substitute with red potatoes, Yukon golds, or fingerlings. Each variety will give slightly different textures - baking potatoes tend to be fluffier inside while remaining crisp outside, while waxy varieties like red potatoes hold their shape better during roasting.

→ What can I substitute for feta cheese?

If you don't have feta, you could use goat cheese for a similar tangy flavor, or halloumi for a different but equally delicious Mediterranean option. Ricotta salata or even brie (though milder) would work as alternatives. Each cheese will create a different flavor profile but maintain the creamy texture that complements the crispy potatoes.

→ How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating, use an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through and potatoes regain some crispness. Microwave reheating works but will result in softer potatoes.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare components ahead of time by washing and cubing the potatoes (store in water to prevent browning) and measuring out the seasonings. However, for best texture and flavor, it's recommended to bake and serve this dish fresh. The melted feta will firm up when refrigerated, changing the final texture.

→ What main dishes pair well with baked feta potatoes?

These potatoes pair beautifully with Mediterranean-inspired main dishes like grilled chicken, lamb chops, or baked fish. They also complement roasted vegetables or can be served alongside a simple Greek salad for a complete vegetarian meal. The flavors are versatile enough to accompany most proteins.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegan version by substituting the feta with a block-style vegan feta alternative, which are increasingly available in grocery stores. Replace the honey with maple syrup or agave nectar. The cooking method remains the same, though vegan cheese may have a different melting point, so monitor closely during baking.