This Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes recipe features fluffy potatoes topped with creamy feta cheese and melted goodness. It’s simple, delicious, and perfect for any meal!
Just imagine the cheesy goodness that fills your kitchen! I love serving these as a side dish or even as a main! It’s comforting food that always brings smiles. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These little gems are creamy and buttery, making them a great choice. If you can’t find baby potatoes, you can use regular potatoes—just cut them into smaller chunks for even cooking.
Feta Cheese: Feta provides a tangy and creamy flavor. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try a plant-based feta or even ricotta for a slightly different taste. My personal favorite is the Greek feta for its rich flavor!
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings depth and aroma. Substitute with garlic powder if you’re in a hurry, using about 1/2 teaspoon for every clove. Fresh garlic does enhance the dish, though!
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps crisp the potatoes. If you’re out, feel free to use vegetable oil or melted butter as alternatives. Each brings its own unique flavor profile.
How Do I Get the Potatoes Perfectly Crispy?
Achieving that perfect golden crispness on your baked potatoes takes a bit of know-how. Here are my tips:
- Ensure the potatoes are coated well with oil; this helps with browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish. Give the potatoes space to cook evenly and achieve that crispiness.
- Flip the potatoes halfway through cooking. This helps them brown on all sides.
Lastly, keep an eye on them towards the end! Every oven is different and you want them crispy, not burnt. Happy cooking!
Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes, quartered
- 8 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh if available)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh oregano or parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare, plus 40-45 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 55 minutes from start to finish, but totally worth the wait for those cheesy, flavorful potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s hot enough to crisp up those potatoes and melt the feta just right. Lightly grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prep the Potatoes:
Take your quartered baby potatoes and place them in the greased baking dish. Drizzle the olive oil over the potatoes, then season generously with salt, pepper, and the dried oregano. Use your hands or a spatula to toss the potatoes until they are evenly coated in the oil and seasonings.
3. Add Garlic and Feta:
Next, scatter the peeled garlic cloves throughout the potatoes. Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the top of the potato mixture. The feta will add a wonderful creaminess once baked!
4. Baking Time:
Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and let it bake for about 40-45 minutes. You want the potatoes to be tender when pierced with a fork and slightly golden around the edges, with the feta nice and melty.
5. Finish Up:
Once they’re done baking, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Squeeze the juice of one lemon over the baked potatoes and toss everything gently to combine. This brightens up the flavors beautifully!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Lastly, garnish with fresh oregano or parsley, if you like. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy your delicious Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes, whether as a side dish or all on their own!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While feta adds a delicious tanginess, you can substitute with goat cheese for a creamier texture or even mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste will change slightly with different cheeses.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
If you’re looking for a vegan version, use plant-based feta or a homemade cashew cheese. You can also add some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy. Don’t forget to replace the honey if you’re using any in your recipe!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the potatoes and assemble the dish a few hours ahead of time. Simply cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to cook, it might take a few extra minutes in the oven since it will be cold from the fridge.
What Are The Best Ways to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of lemon juice can help freshen up the flavors!
