Why You’ll Love This Dish
Crispy, golden-brown roasted potatoes paired with creamy, oven-baked feta and fragrant garlic—this dish is a game-changer! Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic delivers a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
A Mediterranean-Inspired Delight
Inspired by classic Greek roasted potatoes and baked feta recipes, this dish combines herb-infused roasted potatoes with creamy, slightly tangy feta cheese that bakes into a soft, luscious topping. The addition of roasted garlic brings out rich, savory notes that elevate the overall experience.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re preparing a casual weeknight dinner, hosting a Mediterranean-themed feast, or simply craving a comforting yet healthy side, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Pair it with grilled meats, seafood, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
🍽️ Looking for more delicious appetizers? Try these Easy Cranberry Brie Thyme Phyllo Cups for an elegant, crowd-pleasing bite!
Ingredients for Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic
To make this flavorful dish, you’ll need simple, fresh ingredients that come together beautifully.
Main Ingredients
- Potatoes (2 lbs) – Use Yukon Gold or baby potatoes for the best texture. They roast beautifully, turning crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
- Feta Cheese (6 oz block) – Opt for a block of feta instead of crumbles, as it bakes better and maintains its creamy consistency.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Roasting garlic brings out a mild, caramelized sweetness that pairs perfectly with the feta and potatoes.
- Olive Oil (3 tbsp) – Helps achieve crispy, golden-brown potatoes while adding a rich Mediterranean flavor.
- Lemon Juice (1 tbsp) – A splash of lemon brightens up the dish and enhances the tangy feta.
- Dried Oregano (1 tsp) – A classic Greek herb that adds an earthy, aromatic touch.
- Paprika (1/2 tsp) – Adds a subtle smoky flavor and beautiful color.
- Salt & Black Pepper (to taste) – Enhances the overall flavors and balances the dish.
Optional Additions & Substitutes
- Red Pepper Flakes – For a bit of heat, sprinkle some chili flakes over the feta before baking.
- Fresh Herbs – Garnish with parsley, thyme, or rosemary for added freshness.
- Parmesan Cheese – If you want extra cheesiness, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top before serving.
🔎 Pro Tip: Wondering why soaking potatoes before roasting makes a difference? It removes excess starch, helping them become extra crispy in the oven
How to Make Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic
This easy recipe comes together quickly with just a few simple steps. Follow these instructions to achieve perfectly crispy potatoes with creamy, flavorful baked feta.
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Wash and cut the potatoes into bite-sized chunks (if using baby potatoes, halve them).
- Place the potatoes in a bowl and soak them in cold water for 15 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain them and gently pat dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Season and Roast the Potatoes
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer to ensure even roasting.
- Roast for 30-35 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they are golden brown and crispy.
Step 3: Bake the Feta and Assemble the Dish
- While the potatoes are roasting, place the block of feta in a small oven-safe dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then sprinkle with red pepper flakes (optional) and fresh herbs.
- Place the feta in the oven for the last 10-15 minutes of the potato roasting time, allowing it to soften and become creamy.
- Once both the potatoes and feta are done, transfer everything to a serving dish and gently mash the feta over the potatoes.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, and an extra squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
- Serve immediately as a side dish or pair it with Crack Chicken Tenders for a complete meal!
🍽️ Looking for more Mediterranean flavors? Try these Easy Cranberry Brie Thyme Phyllo Cups as a delicious appetizer!
Nutrition Facts for Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that offer great nutritional benefits. Below is an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings).
Calories and Macronutrients
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fats: 16g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 2g
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients
- Potatoes – A great source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamin C, helping with digestion and immune support.
- Feta Cheese – Provides calcium and protein while being lower in fat compared to other cheeses.
- Garlic – Known for its anti-inflammatory and heart-healthy properties.
- Olive Oil – A healthy fat that supports brain and heart health.
How to Make It Healthier
- Reduce sodium – Use low-sodium feta or reduce added salt.
- Lower fat content – Swap full-fat feta with a reduced-fat version.
- Increase fiber – Leave the potato skins on for extra fiber and nutrients.
🥗 Pairing Tip: Serve this dish with a light Greek salad or grilled protein for a well-balanced Mediterranean meal.
Serving & Storage Tips for Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic
This flavorful dish is perfect for any meal and offers easy storage and reheating options to enjoy later. Here’s how to serve and store it properly.
How to Serve
- Serve as a side dish: These roasted potatoes make an excellent accompaniment to grilled meats, seafood, or a simple Mediterranean salad.
- Pair with sauces: Try drizzling with a tangy tzatziki sauce or a balsamic glaze for an extra burst of flavor.
- For a full meal: Serve alongside grilled chicken, lamb chops, or shrimp skewers for a complete Mediterranean-inspired dinner.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerating leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: While roasted potatoes are best fresh, you can freeze them for up to 1 month. Place the cooled potatoes in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the potatoes soggy.
🔄 Quick Tip: If you’re using leftovers, try adding them to a salad or a wrap for a delicious next-day meal!
Variations & Substitutions for Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic
While this dish is already bursting with flavor, there are plenty of ways to customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some great options to explore.
Potato Variations
- Sweet Potatoes: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter, nutrient-packed twist. The natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with the tangy feta and garlic.
- Baby Potatoes: Use baby potatoes for a more delicate texture and an even crispier skin. They’re a perfect bite-sized option for casual meals or entertaining.
- Fingerling Potatoes: For a more gourmet touch, try fingerling potatoes, which offer a nutty flavor and smooth texture once roasted.
Cheese Substitutes
- Goat Cheese: If you prefer a tangier flavor, substitute feta with creamy goat cheese. It’ll melt beautifully over the roasted potatoes and still give you that creamy texture.
- Ricotta Cheese: For a lighter, milder cheese option, try ricotta cheese. It will still give you a soft, melt-in-your-mouth result without the intense tang of feta.
- Vegan Feta: For a dairy-free version, use vegan feta made from coconut oil or tofu. It’s a great substitute for those following a plant-based diet.
Herb and Spice Variations
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for added fragrance. These herbs complement the feta and potatoes beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder if you like a bit of heat in your dish. The spiciness works well with the richness of the feta and potatoes.
- Lemon Zest: For an extra burst of citrusy flavor, grate some lemon zest over the dish just before serving. It will brighten up the entire dish!
🍴 Pro Tip: Add roasted cherry tomatoes or olives for a burst of Mediterranean flavor and a vibrant color contrast to the potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic
Here are some of the most common questions about this delicious dish and its preparation.
1. Does feta cheese melt when baked?
Yes, feta cheese does soften and become creamy when baked, but it doesn’t melt into a liquid like other cheeses such as mozzarella. Instead, it softens and becomes spreadable, making it perfect for topping roasted potatoes. The feta retains its shape while taking on a rich, creamy texture.
2. Why do you soak potatoes before roasting?
Soaking potatoes before roasting helps remove excess starch, which can make the potatoes less crispy when cooked. By soaking them in cold water for 15 minutes, you ensure the potatoes achieve a perfectly crispy exterior once roasted.
3. Why is my feta pasta not creamy?
If your feta pasta isn’t creamy, it could be due to undercooking the feta or using a type of feta that’s too dry. For the best results, ensure you’re using a block of feta and bake it until it becomes soft and creamy. Additionally, mixing the feta thoroughly with the pasta will help achieve that creamy consistency.
4. What type of feta is best for baking?
For baking, it’s best to use a block of feta cheese instead of crumbled feta. A block of feta melts better and creates a smooth, creamy texture when baked. Opt for sheep’s milk feta for a richer, more authentic flavor, or go with a cow’s milk feta for a milder taste.
🍋 Tip: If you prefer a stronger flavor, go for aged feta, which will add a more intense tangy flavor when baked.
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic
Roasted potatoes with baked feta and garlic is the perfect combination of crispy, creamy, and savory flavors. It’s an easy dish that can elevate any meal and is simple enough for a weeknight dinner or special occasions. The combination of golden-brown potatoes, tangy feta, and aromatic garlic creates a flavor-packed dish that everyone will love.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Simplicity: With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a dish that’s both comforting and flavorful.
- Versatility: Customize the dish with different herbs, cheeses, or potatoes to suit your tastes.
- Healthful: Packed with nutrients from potatoes, olive oil, and garlic, it’s a great choice for a balanced side dish.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a comforting meal with loved ones, this roasted potato recipe will surely become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
🥔 Pro Tip: Try this recipe with other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to make it a full Mediterranean-style roasted vegetable dish!