Name: Baked Feta Roasted Potatoes: The Ultimate Recipe Guide
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs small Yukon Gold potatoes, halved or quartered if large; 4 oz block of feta cheese; 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Baked feta roasted potatoes: Prepare to be amazed! Imagine crispy, golden-brown potatoes, perfectly roasted to fluffy perfection, then generously topped with creamy, tangy baked feta. This isn't just a side dish; it's a flavor explosion that will steal the show at any meal. I'm so excited to share this recipe with you!

While the exact origins of combining feta with roasted potatoes are somewhat modern, the love affair between potatoes and cheese is a tale as old as time. Potatoes, a staple in countless cultures, have always been elevated by the addition of creamy, salty cheeses. Feta, with its distinctive salty and slightly acidic flavor, brings a Mediterranean twist to this classic pairing. Think of it as a delicious fusion of rustic comfort food and vibrant Mediterranean flavors.

What makes baked feta roasted potatoes so irresistible? It's the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The crispy exterior of the potatoes gives way to a soft, pillowy interior, while the baked feta melts into a creamy, slightly tangy sauce that coats every bite. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Plus, who can resist the allure of perfectly roasted potatoes and melted cheese? I know I certainly can't!

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs small Yukon Gold potatoes, halved or quartered if large
4 oz block of feta cheese
1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for drizzling
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lemon, zested and juiced
1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves, chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional garnishes: extra oregano, parsley, lemon wedges

Preparing the Potatoes and Feta

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for getting those potatoes nice and crispy. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before you put anything in.
Prepare the potatoes. Wash the Yukon Gold potatoes thoroughly. You don't need to peel them, which saves time and adds a nice texture. Halve or quarter them depending on their size. You want them to be roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
Season the potatoes. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Don't be shy with the seasoning! Potatoes need a good amount of salt to bring out their flavor.
Arrange the potatoes. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Make sure they're not overcrowded, as this will steam them instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets.
Prepare the feta. Place the block of feta in the center of a separate small oven-safe dish or ramekin. Drizzle it with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
Add garlic and lemon zest to the feta. Sprinkle the minced garlic and lemon zest over the feta. This will infuse the feta with delicious flavors as it bakes.

Roasting the Potatoes and Feta

Roast the potatoes and feta. Place both the baking sheet with the potatoes and the dish with the feta in the preheated oven.
Roast for 25-30 minutes. Roast until the potatoes are tender and golden brown, and the feta is softened and slightly melted. The feta should be warm and easily spreadable. Keep an eye on the potatoes; if they start to brown too quickly, you can lower the oven temperature slightly.
Check for doneness. To check if the potatoes are done, pierce them with a fork. They should be easily pierced with little resistance. The feta should be soft and slightly browned on top.

Assembling the Dish

Remove from the oven. Carefully remove the baking sheet with the potatoes and the dish with the feta from the oven. Be careful, as they will be very hot!
Mash the feta. Using a fork, gently mash the baked feta in its dish. It should be creamy and easily spreadable.
Combine the potatoes and feta. Transfer the roasted potatoes to the dish with the mashed feta.
Add fresh herbs and lemon juice. Sprinkle the chopped oregano and parsley over the potatoes and feta. Squeeze the lemon juice over the entire dish. The lemon juice adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the richness of the feta and potatoes.
Add red pepper flakes (optional). If you like a little heat, sprinkle the red pepper flakes over the dish.
Toss gently. Gently toss the potatoes, feta, herbs, and lemon juice together until everything is well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to keep the potatoes intact.
Season to taste. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to suit your preferences.
Serve immediately. Serve the baked feta roasted potatoes immediately while they are still warm and the feta is melted.

Serving Suggestions

Garnish. Garnish with extra fresh oregano, parsley, and lemon wedges for a beautiful presentation.
Side dish. This dish makes a fantastic side dish for grilled chicken, fish, or lamb.
Vegetarian main course. It can also be served as a vegetarian main course with a side salad.
Appetizer. Serve it as a warm appetizer with crusty bread for dipping into the melted feta.
Wine pairing. Pair it with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, to complement the flavors of the feta and lemon.

Tips and Variations

Potato variety. While Yukon Gold potatoes are my favorite for this recipe, you can also use other types of potatoes, such as red potatoes or fingerling potatoes. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Feta cheese. Use a good quality block of feta cheese for the best flavor. Avoid pre-crumbled feta, as it tends to be drier.
Herbs. Feel free to experiment with different herbs. Thyme, rosemary, or dill would also be delicious in this dish.
Vegetables. Add other vegetables to the roasting pan along with the potatoes, such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini.
Spicy version. For a spicier version, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Garlic lovers. If you're a garlic lover, feel free to add more minced garlic to the feta.
Make ahead. You can prepare the potatoes and feta ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to roast them. Just add a few minutes to the cooking time.
Leftovers. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a winner because it's simple, flavorful, and satisfying. The combination of creamy feta, crispy potatoes, fresh herbs, and bright lemon juice is simply irresistible. The roasting process brings out the natural sweetness of the potatoes and creates a wonderful texture contrast. Plus, it's a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish, main course, or appetizer. The use of fresh ingredients ensures that the flavors are vibrant and delicious. The easy preparation and minimal cleanup make it a perfect weeknight meal. The recipe is also easily adaptable to suit your personal preferences and dietary needs. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, you'll be able to make this dish with ease and impress your family and friends.

Nutritional Information (approximate, per serving)

Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 500mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 10g

Enjoy your delicious Baked Feta Roasted Potatoes!

Conclusion:

This baked feta roasted potatoes recipe isn't just another side dish; it's a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The creamy, tangy feta perfectly complements the crispy, golden-brown potatoes, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more. Trust me, once you try this, you'll be adding it to your regular rotation. Why is this a must-try? Because it's incredibly easy to make, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers maximum flavor. We're talking about a dish that's impressive enough for a dinner party but simple enough for a weeknight meal. The combination of salty feta, earthy potatoes, and aromatic herbs is simply irresistible. Plus, it's a fantastic way to elevate the humble potato to something truly special. But the best part? It's incredibly versatile!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* As a Side Dish: Serve these baked feta roasted potatoes alongside grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a complete and satisfying meal. They're also fantastic with roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. * As a Main Course: For a vegetarian option, top the potatoes with a fried egg or a dollop of Greek yogurt. You could even add some chickpeas or lentils for extra protein. * Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the potatoes before roasting for a little kick. A drizzle of hot honey after baking would also be delicious. * Herb Variations: While I love using fresh rosemary and thyme, feel free to experiment with other herbs like oregano, parsley, or dill. * Cheese Variations: While feta is the star of the show, you could try using other cheeses like halloumi or goat cheese for a different flavor profile. Just be sure to adjust the baking time accordingly. * Add Some Veggies: Toss in some chopped red onion, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes with the potatoes before roasting for added color and flavor. * Lemon Zest: A little lemon zest adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the feta and potatoes perfectly. * Garlic Lovers: Add a few cloves of minced garlic to the potatoes before roasting for an extra boost of flavor. I'm confident that you'll love this recipe as much as I do. It's a crowd-pleaser that's sure to impress. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different herbs, spices, and toppings to create your own unique version. So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and give these baked feta roasted potatoes a try! I promise you won't be disappointed. And don't forget to share your creations with me! I'd love to see your photos and hear about your variations. Tag me on social media and let me know what you think. Happy cooking! I can't wait to hear about your experience making this delicious and easy dish. Let me know in the comments how it turned out and what variations you tried!