These Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes are a warm and cheesy delight! The tender potatoes mix perfectly with creamy feta cheese, making every bite a treat.
It’s hard not to smile when the cheese melts and turns golden! I love throwing these together as a comforting side dish that tastes like a hug on a plate. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These potatoes have a lovely creamy texture. If you can’t find baby potatoes, use regular potatoes and cut them into smaller pieces. I often prefer Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery flavor.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives this dish its signature taste. For a twist, try a creamy goat cheese instead. If you’re dairy-free, there are plant-based feta options that work well too.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness. You can substitute it with other oils like avocado oil if you prefer a different flavor or if you’re high-heat roasting.
Herbs: Dried oregano and thyme are classic here. You can mix in fresh herbs like rosemary or even some Italian seasoning for a different twist. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish more!
How Do I Get Perfectly Crispy Potatoes?
For crispy potatoes, getting the oven hot enough is key! Start by preheating to 400°F (200°C). The next trick is to give the potatoes room to breathe.
- Spread them in a single layer in your baking dish or skillet; this helps them brown nicely.
- Don’t skip the toss in olive oil; it helps in achieving that golden crispness.
- Make sure to turn the potatoes halfway through cooking for even crispiness.
Following these tips will reward you with beautifully crispy potatoes that are simply irresistible!
Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
- 1 block (about 7 oz) feta cheese, cut into small cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (plus extra fresh thyme for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 45-50 minutes of cooking time. You’ll spend a little time tossing everything together, then pop it in the oven and relax while it bakes to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step gets things nice and hot for crispy potatoes!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper until everything is well coated. It should smell amazing already!
3. Get Ready for Baking:
Transfer the coated potatoes into a baking dish or an oven-safe skillet. Spread them out in a single layer to make sure they cook evenly.
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. You want them to look golden on the edges and be tender when poked with a fork.
5. Add the Feta:
Once the potatoes are starting to get tender, take the dish out and scatter the feta cheese cubes evenly over the top. This cheesy goodness is what makes this dish so tasty!
6. Finish Baking:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the feta is slightly browned and the potatoes are fully tender.
7. Garnish and Serve:
When it’s done, take the dish out of the oven and garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Serve the cheesy baked potatoes warm as a delicious side dish, perfect alongside grilled meats or a light salad.
Enjoy your flavorful and creamy Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes! They are sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are great for their creamy texture, you can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, you can try goat cheese for a different tangy flavor, or even a vegan cheese option if you want a dairy-free alternative. Both will melt nicely!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes up to the baking stage and store them in the fridge for a day. When ready, add the feta and bake them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
