Introduction to Roasted Potatoes with Garlic & Baked Feta
Ah, the magic of roasted potatoes with garlic & baked feta! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for those busy weeknights or when you want to impress your loved ones without breaking a sweat. Imagine crispy baby potatoes, golden and tender, mingling with the rich, creamy goodness of baked feta. It’s a delightful Mediterranean-inspired side that pairs beautifully with just about anything. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken or a fresh salad, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Roasted Potatoes with Garlic & Baked Feta
This roasted potatoes with garlic & baked feta recipe is a game-changer in the kitchen! It’s incredibly easy to whip up, taking just over an hour from start to finish. The flavors are simply divine, with the garlic and herbs elevating the humble potato to new heights. Plus, it’s a versatile side dish that complements any meal, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. You’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Roasted Potatoes with Garlic & Baked Feta
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious roasted potatoes with garlic & baked feta dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Baby Potatoes: These little gems are perfect for roasting. Their small size ensures a crispy exterior and tender inside.
- Olive Oil: A must-have for that golden, crispy finish. It also adds a rich flavor that complements the potatoes beautifully.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic essence. It’s the heart of this recipe!
- Dried Oregano: This herb brings a Mediterranean flair. Feel free to swap it for fresh oregano if you have it on hand.
- Dried Thyme: Another herb that adds depth. Fresh thyme sprigs work just as well for a burst of flavor.
- Paprika: Optional, but it adds a lovely color and a hint of smokiness to the dish.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste for the perfect balance.
- Feta Cheese: The star of the show! A block of feta melts beautifully, creating a creamy topping for the potatoes.
- Chili Flakes: Optional for those who like a little heat. It adds a nice kick to the creamy feta.
- Fresh Thyme or Parsley: For garnish, these herbs add a pop of color and freshness to your dish.
For exact quantities, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Roasted Potatoes with Garlic & Baked Feta
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps for making these delightful roasted potatoes with garlic & baked feta. Each step is simple, and I promise you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s bursting with flavor!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that the potatoes start cooking immediately, giving them that perfect crispy texture. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Next, wash your baby potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Halve them to create bite-sized pieces. This not only helps them cook evenly but also allows more surface area for that delicious crispiness. After halving, pat them dry with a towel. This step is key for achieving that golden crunch!
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Make sure every potato is coated evenly. The olive oil helps the spices stick and enhances the flavor, while the garlic adds a warm, aromatic touch. It’s like a flavor party in that bowl!
Step 4: Arrange for Roasting
Spread the seasoned potatoes out on a parchment-lined baking tray in a single layer. This is important! If they’re too crowded, they’ll steam instead of roast, and we want that crispy goodness. Give them some space to breathe and get golden brown.
Step 5: Roast the Potatoes
Pop the tray into the oven and roast for 35–40 minutes. Halfway through, flip the potatoes to ensure they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy on the edges. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!
Step 6: Prepare the Baked Feta
While the potatoes are roasting, grab a small oven-safe dish and place the block of feta inside. Drizzle it with a bit of olive oil and sprinkle some chili flakes on top if you like a little heat. Bake the feta in the oven for about 10–12 minutes, until it’s soft and slightly golden. This creamy topping is what dreams are made of!
Step 7: Combine and Serve
Once the potatoes are perfectly roasted, transfer them to a serving bowl. Break the baked feta into chunks and scatter it over the hot potatoes. Drizzle with the herbed oil from the baking dish for an extra flavor boost. Finally, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm and watch everyone dig in!
Tips for Success
- Make sure to dry the potatoes thoroughly after washing for maximum crispiness.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or basil for a unique twist.
- For a quicker prep, use pre-washed baby potatoes.
- Don’t skip the flipping step; it ensures even roasting.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Baking Tray: A standard baking sheet works well. If you don’t have one, a cast-iron skillet is a great alternative.
- Parchment Paper: This helps prevent sticking. If you’re out, a light coating of oil on the tray will do.
- Mixing Bowl: Any large bowl will suffice for tossing the potatoes.
- Oven-Safe Dish: Use a small ceramic or glass dish for the feta. A ramekin works perfectly!
Variations of Roasted Potatoes with Garlic & Baked Feta
- Herb-Infused: Swap out the oregano and thyme for fresh rosemary or dill for a different flavor profile.
- Cheesy Delight: Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the potatoes during the last 10 minutes of roasting for an extra cheesy kick.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce with the olive oil for a spicy version.
- Vegetable Medley: Toss in some bell peppers or cherry tomatoes with the potatoes for added color and flavor.
- Vegan Option: Replace feta with a block of marinated tofu for a plant-based alternative that still delivers on creaminess.
Serving Suggestions for Roasted Potatoes with Garlic & Baked Feta
- Pair with grilled chicken or steak for a hearty meal.
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a light option.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an elegant touch.
- Enjoy with a glass of crisp white wine.
- Garnish with extra herbs for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs about Roasted Potatoes with Garlic & Baked Feta
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are perfect for roasting, you can use small new potatoes or even Yukon Golds. Just adjust the cooking time if the potatoes are larger.
How do I store leftovers of roasted potatoes with garlic & baked feta?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture, as microwaving can make them soggy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the potatoes and season them a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to roast. The baked feta is best made fresh, though!
What can I serve with roasted potatoes with garlic & baked feta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, fish, or a fresh salad. It’s a versatile side that complements many main courses!
Is this recipe suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes! This roasted potatoes with garlic & baked feta recipe is vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure your feta is made without animal rennet if you want it to be strictly vegetarian.
Final Thoughts
Cooking roasted potatoes with garlic & baked feta is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings joy to the table. The aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen, the sight of golden, crispy potatoes, and the creamy feta melting over them create a feast for the senses. This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. I love how it effortlessly combines simplicity with elegance, making it a go-to favorite. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Roasted Potatoes with Garlic & Baked Feta: A Must-Try!
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These roasted baby potatoes are perfectly crisp on the outside and tender inside, coated in olive oil, garlic, and herbs — then topped with warm, creamy baked feta. A Mediterranean-style side dish that pairs beautifully with chicken, steak, or simply a fresh salad.
Ingredients
- 800 g baby potatoes (or small new potatoes), halved
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh thyme sprigs)
- ½ tsp paprika (optional for color)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 100 g feta cheese (block, not crumbled)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
- Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Wash and halve the baby potatoes. Pat them dry with a towel to ensure crispiness.
- In a bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Spread the potatoes out on a parchment-lined baking tray in a single layer.
- Roast for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the edges.
- While the potatoes roast, place the feta block on a small oven-safe dish.
- Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle chili flakes (optional).
- Bake in the oven for 10–12 minutes, or until soft and slightly golden.
- Once the potatoes are done, transfer them to a serving bowl.
- Break the baked feta into chunks and scatter over the hot potatoes.
- Drizzle with the herbed oil from the baking dish.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley.
Notes
- Ensure the potatoes are dried well before roasting for maximum crispiness.
- Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices according to your taste.
- This dish can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
