These Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes are creamy, cheesy, and absolutely scrumptious! Imagine fluffy potatoes paired with warm, melty feta cheese—a match made in heaven!
I love serving these potatoes with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate. Plus, they make any meal feel special without too much fuss! 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These are perfect for getting that creamy inside and crispy outside. If you can’t find baby potatoes, feel free to use regular potatoes, just cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking!
Feta Cheese: Feta adds that salty and tangy flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you might try a plant-based feta. For a different taste, crumbled goat cheese is also a great substitute!
Olive Oil: This oil helps make the potatoes crispy. If you want a lighter option, avocado oil works well too. Just stick to oils with a high smoke point for roasting!
Herbs: Fresh thyme is lovely in this recipe, but you can swap it for rosemary or Italian seasoning if that’s what you have at hand. Dried herbs work just fine, too!
How Do I Get My Potatoes Crispy?
Getting those potatoes crispy is all about how you prepare them! Here’s what works:
- Make sure to cut the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Toss them well in oil, garlic, and spices to coat thoroughly, but don’t over-crowd the baking dish to allow for airflow.
- Flip them halfway through the baking time to ensure they crisp up on all sides.
Following these steps should help you achieve perfectly crispy and delicious potatoes every time!
How to Make Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (halved)
- 4 ounces feta cheese (cubed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Estimated Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 40-45 minutes total. You’ll spend roughly 10-15 minutes prepping your ingredients and then 25-30 minutes baking them to perfection. It’s a quick and tasty side dish that feels gourmet!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is the perfect temperature to get those potatoes nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well so that every potato is coated in the flavorful oil and seasonings.
3. Arrange for Baking:
Next, spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking dish or sheet. Make sure they have some space between them to ensure they get crispy.
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Pop the potatoes in the oven and bake them for about 25-30 minutes. Flip them halfway through so they can brown evenly and become tender.
5. Add Feta:
Once the potatoes are golden and tender, take them out and sprinkle the cubed feta cheese over the top. The heat from the potatoes will begin to melt the cheese, making it extra delicious!
6. Finish Baking:
Put the dish back in the oven and bake for another 8-10 minutes. You want the feta to get slightly golden and soft.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh thyme leaves over the potatoes for a burst of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy this cheesy, savory side dish with your favorite meal!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are perfect for this recipe, you can use regular potatoes or even sweet potatoes. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Feta Cheese?
If you’re looking for alternatives, goat cheese is a great substitute for a different flavor. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based feta. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly from the original recipe!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through. The oven will help restore some of the crispiness!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the potatoes and toss them in oil and seasonings, then store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add the feta before the final bake so it stays fresh and creamy!
