These Easy Baked Feta Potatoes are a dream come true for potato lovers! Soft, creamy potatoes topped with garlic and melted feta will have your taste buds singing.
Honestly, who can resist the combo of garlic and feta? It’s like a flavor hug! I love serving these cozy potatoes with a salad on the side for a simple, tasty meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These are tender and creamy when baked. You can substitute them with regular potatoes, just cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking. Red or yellow potatoes also work well!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness and helps crisp the potatoes. If you’re watching your health, you could use a lighter oil like avocado oil, which also has a high smoke point.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a wonderful aroma and flavor. If you’re short on time, you can use garlic powder, but fresh is always better if you can manage it!
Feta Cheese: Feta is the star here for its creamy texture. If you need a dairy-free option, try using a vegan feta or a mix of cashew cream with lemon juice for some tang.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Crispy Potatoes?
The key to crispy potatoes is in how you prepare and cook them. Start by cutting the potatoes in half so they have a larger surface area for crisping. Here’s what you need to do:
- Preheat your oven well to ensure the potatoes sizzle when they hit the pan.
- When tossing the potatoes, make sure they are evenly coated in oil. This helps them crisp up beautifully.
- Use a baking sheet with enough space. If the potatoes are crowded, they’ll steam instead of roast and won’t get that nice crunch.
- Flipping the potatoes halfway through baking also helps them brown evenly.
Follow these tips, and you’ll have deliciously crispy potatoes every time! Enjoy!
Easy Baked Feta Potatoes with Garlic
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or fresh thyme for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 ounces feta cheese, cut into small cubes
- Fresh thyme sprigs (optional), for garnish
Time Needed:
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 40-45 minutes to cook. You’ll have crispy, flavorful potatoes ready in less than an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your potatoes get nice and crispy right from the start.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, add the halved baby potatoes. Pour in the olive oil along with the minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are well coated with the oil and spices. This will give them lots of flavor!
3. Arrange the Potatoes:
Take a baking sheet or an oven-safe dish and arrange the potatoes with the cut side facing down. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan so they can get crispy all over.
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. They should be golden on the bottom and soft inside when you poke them with a fork.
5. Add the Feta:
Once the potatoes are perfectly baked, take them out of the oven. Scatter the cubed feta cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes, giving it a lovely creamy finish.
6. Final Baking:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes. You want the feta to be warm and slightly golden at the edges—this makes it even creamier!
7. Garnish and Serve:
After baking, remove the dish from the oven and, if you like, garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for a pop of color and flavor. Serve these delicious potatoes warm as a side or a light main dish.
Enjoy your delicious and simple Easy Baked Feta Potatoes with Garlic!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, you can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just make sure to cut them into even-sized pieces for consistent cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you don’t have feta on hand, you can substitute it with goat cheese for a tangy flavor or cream cheese for a milder taste. For a dairy-free option, try using a vegan feta made from nuts or tofu.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the potatoes ahead of time by tossing them in oil and seasoning, then store them in the fridge. Just bake when you’re ready to serve. Cooked potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but they may lose some crispness.
