These cheesy baked feta potatoes are a fun twist on a classic dish! They are creamy, cheesy, and topped with crumbled feta for that extra zing. Yum!
When you take that first bite, the cheesy goodness just melts in your mouth. I like to pair them with a fresh salad to balance things out. Trust me, you’ll want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These small potatoes are perfect for roasting as they get crispy and tender. If you can’t find baby potatoes, small Yukon Gold or Red potatoes work well. Just adjust the cooking time if they’re larger.
Feta Cheese: This cheese brings a delightful tang. If you’re not a fan of feta, you could try goat cheese for a milder flavor, or even mozzarella for a creamier texture. Just keep in mind that the taste will change.
Olive Oil: This oil is ideal for roasting. If you’re looking for a different flavor, avocado oil is another great choice. You can also use melted butter for a richer taste!
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme are fantastic, but feel free to substitute them with Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like rosemary and parsley to create your own twist.
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Potatoes?
The secret to crispy potatoes lies in the roasting process. Following a few important steps will help you achieve the desired texture.
- Cut the potatoes in half to increase the surface area. This helps them crisp up nicely.
- Make sure to toss them well in oil and seasonings to ensure each piece is coated.
- Spread the potatoes cut-side down on the baking sheet. This allows for maximum browning.
- Don’t rush the cooking time! Roast them until they’re golden and tender. If they’re sticking, give them a gentle mix.
Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (or small Yukon Gold potatoes), halved
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Cheese Topping:
- 4 oz feta cheese, crumbled or cut into small cubes
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and around 40 minutes for cooking. So, in about 50 minutes, you’ll have delicious cheesy baked feta potatoes ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your potatoes cook evenly and become nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, add the halved baby potatoes. Drizzle in the olive oil and add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until all potatoes are nicely coated in the oil and seasonings. This gives them a wonderful flavor!
3. Roast the Potatoes:
Spread the potatoes cut-side down on a lined or greased baking sheet or a baking dish. This will help them get a beautiful golden color as they roast. Pop them in the oven and roast for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden and tender.
4. Add the Feta:
After roasting, take the potatoes out of the oven. Gently mix them around to allow some crispy edges to show. Then, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese evenly over the potatoes. This cheesy goodness will melt beautifully as they bake!
5. Final Bake:
Return the dish to the oven for another 10-12 minutes, or until the feta is slightly browned and warmed through. The aroma will be fantastic!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Once done, remove the potatoes from the oven. If you’d like, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a lovely touch. Serve them warm, and enjoy your delicious cheesy baked feta potatoes!
These baked potatoes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and loaded with creamy, tangy feta on top, making them a delightful side dish or light main course!
FAQ for Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes or small Yukon Golds are perfect, you can use larger potatoes as well. Just cut them into smaller, even-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as larger pieces may take longer to roast.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick option, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! You can easily adapt this recipe by omitting the feta cheese and using your favorite vegan cheese or simply adding more vegetables for flavor. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy flavor without dairy.
What Can I Serve with Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes?
These potatoes pair beautifully with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a light meal. They also make a fantastic side dish for roasted meats or fish, complementing the flavors beautifully!
