Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic is a simple yet flavorful side dish that combines crispy potatoes with creamy, melted feta and aromatic garlic. The rich, savory taste of the feta complements the golden, crispy potatoes, and the garlic adds an irresistible aroma to every bite. Whether you’re serving it as a side to a main course or enjoying it on its own, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Behind the Recipe

This dish was born from the desire to create a side that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Roasted potatoes are a classic, but adding the feta and garlic elevates it to something extraordinary. The feta bakes until it becomes soft and slightly caramelized, infusing the potatoes with its rich, tangy flavor. Garlic, of course, brings that unmistakable savory depth that makes this dish so irresistible.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

The combination of roasted potatoes and feta is popular in Mediterranean cuisine, where the flavors of potatoes, cheese, and garlic come together to create satisfying, hearty side dishes. The addition of feta adds a creamy, tangy element that pairs perfectly with the natural sweetness of roasted potatoes.

Why You’ll Love Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

This recipe is everything you want in a side dish — crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

Versatile: Pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to grilled vegetables.

Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients that are affordable and easy to find.

Quick and Easy: Requires minimal prep time and the oven does all the work.

Customizable: You can add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor or experiment with different cheeses.

Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a universally loved combination that’s bound to impress guests at any meal.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the potatoes in advance and roast them just before serving.

Great for Leftovers: The leftovers make a fantastic snack or can be added to salads or wraps the next day.

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use waxy potatoes: Waxy potatoes like red potatoes or fingerlings hold their shape better during roasting, giving you crispy edges and a creamy center.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Spread the potatoes out in a single layer to ensure they roast evenly and get crispy on all sides.
• Season generously: Don’t be afraid to season your potatoes with salt and pepper — they need it to bring out their flavor.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Baking Sheet: To roast the potatoes evenly.
• Sharp Knife: To cut the potatoes into even chunks.
• Mixing Bowl: For tossing the potatoes with olive oil and seasoning.
• Aluminum Foil or Parchment Paper: To line the baking sheet for easy cleanup.

Ingredients in Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

This dish is made with just a few simple ingredients, but they come together to create something absolutely delicious.

1. Potatoes: 1.5 lbs (about 6 medium potatoes) – Provides the hearty base of the dish, with a crispy exterior and soft interior when roasted.
2. Feta Cheese: 4 oz – Adds a creamy, tangy richness that pairs beautifully with the roasted potatoes.
3. Garlic: 4 cloves – Infuses the dish with its savory, aromatic flavor.
4. Olive Oil: 2 tbsp – Helps the potatoes get golden and crispy while roasting.
5. Salt: To taste – Enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes and garlic.
6. Pepper: To taste – Adds a bit of heat and depth to the dish.
7. Fresh Herbs (optional): 1-2 tbsp of rosemary, thyme, or parsley – For a fragrant, herbal note that complements the dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Potatoes: You can use Yukon Gold potatoes or any other variety you prefer.
• Feta Cheese: Goat cheese or ricotta can be used as an alternative for a different flavor profile.
• Garlic: Shallots or onions can be used for a milder flavor.
• Olive Oil: You can substitute with melted butter for a richer flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs like oregano or basil can also be used in place of fresh herbs.

Ingredient Spotlight

Feta Cheese: Feta is a brined cheese that brings a sharp, tangy flavor to dishes. When baked, it softens and develops a slightly caramelized crust, adding a rich, savory element to the roasted potatoes. It’s a perfect pairing with potatoes, adding depth and richness without being overwhelming.

Instructions for Making Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

This simple recipe is easy to follow, and the results are always delicious. Just follow these steps for crispy, cheesy perfection.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Combine Ingredients: Cut the potatoes into even chunks and place them in a mixing bowl. Add olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs. Toss to coat the potatoes evenly.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
4. Assemble the Dish: Place the block of feta cheese in the center of the baking sheet, nestled between the potatoes. Add the garlic cloves around the potatoes.
5. Cook to Perfection: Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy. The feta should be soft and slightly browned.
6. Finishing Touches: Once roasted, remove from the oven and sprinkle with additional fresh herbs if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately as a side dish to your favorite meal.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The key to this dish is the balance of textures. The potatoes become golden and crispy on the outside, while remaining tender on the inside. The feta cheese, when baked, transforms into a creamy, slightly tangy addition that complements the potatoes perfectly. The garlic cloves soften in the oven, infusing the entire dish with a savory aroma. Together, these elements create a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Use a large baking sheet: Spreading the potatoes out in a single layer ensures they roast evenly and get crispy.
• Stir halfway through roasting: To ensure the potatoes crisp up on all sides, stir them once or twice during cooking.
• Add a drizzle of balsamic vinegar: For extra flavor, drizzle a little balsamic vinegar over the roasted potatoes just before serving.

What to Avoid

• Overcrowding the Pan: If the potatoes are too close together, they’ll steam rather than roast, and you won’t get that crispy texture.
• Skipping the Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs add a lot of flavor to this dish. Don’t skip them!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 250
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prep the potatoes and toss them with oil and seasonings ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for up to 2 hours before roasting. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.

How to Serve Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

These roasted potatoes make a perfect side dish for almost any main course. Serve them alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a fresh salad. They’re also great on their own for a light lunch or dinner.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Leftover roasted potatoes can be added to salads, used as a filling for wraps, or even made into a breakfast hash. Simply reheat them and add your favorite toppings like poached eggs or avocado.

Additional Tips

• For extra flavor, consider adding some sun-dried tomatoes or olives to the potatoes before roasting.
• Try mixing in a little Parmesan cheese with the feta for a cheesy, tangy flavor boost.

Make It a Showstopper

To really make this dish stand out, serve it in a beautiful serving bowl with fresh herbs sprinkled on top. A few extra drizzles of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving will brighten the flavors.

Variations to Try

1. Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the potatoes before roasting for a spicy kick.
2. Herb-Infused: Use a mix of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano for a more complex flavor.
3. Lemon and Feta: Add lemon zest or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for a burst of brightness.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?
A1: Yes! Goat cheese or ricotta works well if you prefer a different flavor.

Q2: How can I make the potatoes extra crispy?
A2: Make sure to spread the potatoes out in a single layer and stir them halfway through roasting.

Q3: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A3: Yes, you can prep the potatoes and season them ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 2 hours before roasting.

Q4: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A4: Yes, sweet potatoes work great as a substitute and add a slight sweetness to the dish.

Q5: How do I store leftovers?
A5: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Q6: Can I use dried garlic instead of fresh?
A6: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder or dried garlic if necessary.

Q7: Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
A7: Yes, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q8: How do I get the feta to be perfectly soft?
A8: Make sure the feta is in the center of the baking sheet where it will bake and soften with the heat of the potatoes.

Q9: Can I make this dish in a cast iron pan?
A9: Yes, a cast iron pan works great for roasting potatoes and will give them an extra crispy edge.

Q10: Can I make this dish vegan?
A10: Yes, you can use a plant-based feta or another vegan cheese alternative.

Conclusion

Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic is a simple yet delicious side dish that will elevate any meal. The crispy potatoes, melting feta, and aromatic garlic come together in perfect harmony, creating a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress!

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