These Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes are a treat! Just bake your potatoes until soft, top them with creamy feta cheese and a sprinkle of herbs, then pop them back in the oven.
I love how simple and cheesy they are! Pair them with a fresh salad, and you have a tasty meal that feels special without a ton of effort.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: I recommend using yellow or gold baby potatoes for their buttery flavor and creamy texture. If you can’t find them, you can substitute with red potatoes or regular-sized potatoes, just cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps achieve a nice crispy texture. If you’re looking for a different flavor, feel free to use avocado oil or melted butter instead.
Feta Cheese: Feta provides that creamy, tangy punch. For a dairy-free version, you can try using vegan feta cheese. Crumbled goat cheese also works well for a similar texture.
Herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary adds a fragrant touch. If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs can be used, but remember to use less since dried herbs are more potent.
How Do You Achieve the Perfectly Crispy Potatoes?
Getting those golden, crispy potatoes is all about the right preparation and baking technique. Here’s how to ensure great results:
- Make sure to cut the potatoes into evenly sized halves so they cook at the same rate.
- Using the right amount of oil is key! Coat the potatoes well to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Place the potatoes cut-side down on your baking sheet. This will help them get a nice caramelization on that side.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet; give them space to roast. If they’re too close, they might steam instead of crisp.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have perfectly crispy and delicious baked feta potatoes every time!
Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (yellow or gold), halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 ounces feta cheese, cut into cubes
- Fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to cook, making a total of around 50 minutes. You’ll have about 25-30 minutes of baking time before adding the feta, plus a quick final bake to warm up the cheese. It’s simple and perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your potatoes cook evenly and get crispy.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a mixing bowl, combine the halved baby potatoes. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle in the dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are well coated with the seasonings. This adds flavor and helps achieve that crispy texture!
3. Roast the Potatoes:
Arrange the potatoes cut-side down on a baking sheet or in an ovenproof dish. Make sure they are in a single layer to roast evenly. Place them in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and tender when you poke them with a fork.
4. Add the Feta Cheese:
Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully take them out of the oven. Scatter the cubed feta cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes. This will melt and get all gooey and delicious!
5. Final Bake:
Return the potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes. You want the feta to soften and turn slightly golden—this brings out its rich flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve:
After baking, take the potatoes out of the oven and garnish them with fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs. These herbs will add a lovely aroma and flavor. Serve the potatoes hot as a delightful side dish or appetizer—enjoy your cheesy goodness!
This recipe delivers crispy potatoes paired beautifully with creamy feta cheese, creating a dish that’s not only simple but absolutely delicious!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese Instead of Feta?
Absolutely! While feta adds a wonderful tangy flavor, you can substitute it with goat cheese, blue cheese, or even shredded mozzarella. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly, but they’ll all be delicious.
What Should I Do If My Potatoes Aren’t Crispy Enough?
If your potatoes aren’t crispy after the initial baking time, try increasing the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for the last few minutes. Ensure they have enough space on the baking sheet, and consider flipping them halfway through baking for better browning.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
You can prep the potatoes and coat them with olive oil and seasonings ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to a day before roasting. Just add the feta cheese before the final bake, and adjust the cooking time as needed if they’re cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked feta potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for the best results. You can also microwave them, though they might not retain their crispiness as well.
