These Easy Baked Feta Potatoes are a cozy dish that brings comfort to your table! Soft potatoes are mixed with creamy feta and fresh herbs, making every bite flavorful and satisfying.
Honestly, what’s better than cheese and potatoes? They make the perfect team! I love serving these with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of extra herbs for that burst of flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: I recommend using yellow or gold potatoes because they become nice and creamy when baked. If you can’t find those, red potatoes work well too! Just make sure they are similar in size for even cooking.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds that creamy, tangy flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using tofu feta or another vegan cheese crumb that melts well.
Olive Oil: This helps crisp the potatoes! You can substitute it with avocado oil for a higher smoke point, or even butter for extra flavor if you’re not dairy-free!
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme are must-haves for lots of flavor. Don’t have those? Italian seasoning can work as a substitute. Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary can add a different twist!
How Can I Make Sure My Potatoes Are Crispy?
Getting that perfect crispy texture on your potatoes is all about the right temperature and timing! Here’s how to do it:
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This helps start the cooking process on the right foot!
- Spread the potatoes out in a single layer. Crowding them can trap steam, making them soggy instead of crispy.
- Use enough oil to coat them lightly; this helps them brown. Too much oil can lead to a greasy texture.
- Don’t skip the second baking step after adding feta. It gives both the potatoes and cheese that lovely, golden, crunchy texture!
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly crispy and delicious baked feta potatoes every time! Enjoy!
Easy Baked Feta Potatoes with Herbs
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (yellow or gold variety), halved or quartered if large
- 4 ounces feta cheese, cut into small cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh thyme sprigs or other fresh herbs (parsley, rosemary) for garnish
Time Estimate:
You will need about 10 minutes for prepping the ingredients, and around 40-45 minutes of baking time. All in all, about 55 minutes is sufficient to prepare and bake these delightful potatoes!
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will help the potatoes bake evenly and become golden crispy!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is evenly coated so each potato bites becomes flavorful!
3. Arrange for Baking:
Spread the potato mixture out on the prepared baking sheet or dish in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly and get that delicious crispy texture.
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are starting to turn golden and are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Add the Feta:
Once the potatoes are ready, take them out and mix in the cubed feta cheese gently, placing it evenly over the top of the potatoes.
6. Final Baking:
Return the potatoes to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes. This will allow the feta to soften and turn a little golden while the potatoes get crispy edges.
7. Garnish:
Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle with fresh thyme sprigs or any other fresh herbs you like for that extra flair!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious baked feta potatoes warm, either as a delightful side dish or a light main meal. Enjoy the creamy feta and herbal aroma with every bite!
Happy cooking!
FAQs About Easy Baked Feta Potatoes with Herbs
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture, you can use other types like red or even russet potatoes. Just cut them into even pieces for consistent cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Feta Cheese?
No worries! You can substitute feta with goat cheese for a similar creamy texture or even a dairy-free cheese alternative like tofu feta if you’re looking for a plant-based option.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
You can prep the potatoes and mix them with the oil and herbs ahead of time. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. However, it’s best to add the feta cheese shortly before baking for optimal texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy your leftovers!
