I absolutely love this Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic Recipe because it combines the heartiness of roasted potatoes with the creamy, tangy goodness of baked feta and the irresistible sweetness of roasted garlic. The flavors meld together so beautifully, making it a perfect dish for cozy dinners or when you want something simple that feels a little special. Whenever I serve this, people always ask for seconds, and honestly, me too!
One of the things that makes this Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic Recipe stand out is how easy it is to prep and how forgiving it is in the oven. You can toss everything in and let it roast while you get on with other things. Plus, the addition of honey and fresh basil at the end adds a lovely burst of brightness and a subtle sweetness that you might not expect but will definitely want every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Minimal Prep: Get everything ready in under 15 minutes and forget about it while it roasts.
- Flavor Explosion: Roasted garlic paste, creamy feta, and fresh herbs make each bite rich and satisfying.
- Versatility: Works perfectly as a side or a vegetarian main, and it’s easy to tweak based on what you have on hand.
- Family Favorite: My family goes crazy for this combo, and I m sure yours will too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic Recipe come together beautifully, with each one playing a role in creating that perfect blend of savory, sweet, and fresh flavors. I always recommend using a good-quality block of feta and fresh basil to lift the whole dish.
- Baking Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for crispiness or Yukon Golds for creamier texture.
- Feta Cheese Block: A firm block gives the right creaminess and holds up well during baking.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin for the best flavor and aroma.
- Dried Thyme & Oregano: These herbs give the perfect earthiness to the potatoes.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Garlic Head: Roasting whole garlic mellows its bite into a sweet, buttery paste.
- Lemon: Adds freshness and a bright citrus note to cut through the richness.
- Honey: Just a touch adds a lovely contrast and depth to the dish.
- Fresh Basil: For a pop of color and fresh herbal flavor at serving.
Variations
I like to switch things up with this Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic Recipe depending on the season or my mood. It s a flexible dish, so feel free to add a personal touch or two to make it your own.
- Cherry Tomatoes Variation: I once tossed in halved cherry tomatoes about halfway through baking, which added a juicy burst of sweetness that paired wonderfully with the feta.
- Spicy Kick: Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika gives the dish a nice warmth that wakes up the palate.
- Herb Swap: Fresh rosemary or thyme can substitute basil depending on what you have, offering a slightly different herbaceous note.
- Vegan Option: Switching feta for a plant-based cheese and drizzling extra olive oil keeps it vegan and still flavorful.
How to Make Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 390°F (200°C). While it warms up, wash and cube your potatoes into roughly even pieces-this helps them roast evenly. I find it really helps to soak the cubed potatoes in cold water for about 30 minutes beforehand if you want them extra crispy because it removes surface starch, but it’s totally optional if you re short on time.
Step 2: Season the Potatoes
Drizzle about one tablespoon of olive oil over the cubed potatoes in a baking dish. Sprinkle the dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper evenly over them. Toss everything well to ensure each potato cube is nicely coated. This step is key for flavoring every bite, so don’t rush it!
Step 3: Add Feta, Garlic, and Lemon
Place the block of feta cheese right in the center of the dish. For an extra touch, press one side of the feta into the seasoned potatoes so it absorbs some of those herby flavors before flipping it over. Next, add the whole garlic head with its top sliced off and half the lemon wedges. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over everything to keep it juicy while roasting.
Step 4: Roast Until Golden Perfection
Pop the dish into the oven and roast for 45 to 55 minutes. Keep a close eye on the garlic; if it starts browning too much after around 35 minutes, take it out to prevent burning. You’ll know it s done when the potatoes are crispy and golden, and the feta has softened and started to brown a bit around the edges.
Step 5: Mash Garlic and Add Fresh Flavors
Once the garlic has cooled, squeeze the soft cloves out of their skins and mash them into a paste with a knife. Add this garlic paste along with the juice from the remaining lemon wedges and chopped fresh basil to the dish. Gently stir everything together to coat the potatoes and feta evenly with those bright, fresh flavors.
Step 6: Finish with Honey and Serve
Drizzle a tablespoon of honey over the entire dish, then sprinkle more fresh basil on top for color and vibrancy. The honey adds a subtle sweetness that really makes this recipe shine. Then, it s time to dig in and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic Recipe
- Use Cold Water Soak: Soaking cubed potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes helps remove starch and crisps them up beautifully.
- Watch the Garlic: Roasted whole garlic is delicious but burns easily-take it out early if it starts to brown too much.
- Press Feta into Potatoes: This little trick lets the feta soak up some herb flavors, making each bite more cohesive and tasty.
- Don t Skip the Honey: The subtle sweetness balances out the savory and tangy notes – just a light drizzle does the trick.
How to Serve Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic Recipe
Garnishes
I like to finish this dish with a generous handful of fresh basil leaves-they add a lovely herbal brightness and pop of color. Sometimes I also sprinkle some toasted pine nuts for a bit of crunch. If I m feeling fancy, a quick shower of lemon zest makes it even fresher.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed greens like broccoli or green beans. It also works great alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a more substantial meal. On lazy days, I sometimes just spoon it over some sautéed spinach and call it dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, I love serving the roasted potatoes with baked feta and garlic straight from a rustic ceramic dish on the table, so everyone can scoop their own portions. I’ve also used mini cast iron skillets for individual servings, which always impress guests. Adding edible flowers or microgreens on top adds that extra wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The potatoes remain tasty, though the feta firms up a bit when chilled. To keep everything fresh, add the fresh basil right before serving rather than when storing.
Freezing
Freezing this dish isn t my favorite because the texture of potatoes changes and feta can become crumbly. However, if you want to freeze it, try doing so before adding the garlic paste and honey, then add those fresh elements when reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, I recommend warming in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to bring back some crispiness in the potatoes. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the feta rubbery and the potatoes soggy. Add fresh basil and a drizzle of honey after reheating for best results.
FAQs
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Can I use other types of cheese instead of feta in this recipe?
Yes! While feta is traditional and offers a nice balance of tanginess and creaminess, you can try halloumi, goat cheese, or even a firm mozzarella block. Just keep in mind their melting properties differ, so cooking times or textures might change slightly.
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How can I make the potatoes extra crispy?
Soaking potatoes in cold water before cooking removes excess starch, which helps with crispiness. Also, make sure to toss the potatoes well in olive oil, space them out in the baking dish (avoid overcrowding), and consider turning them once during roasting.
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Is it necessary to use a whole head of garlic?
Using a whole head allows the garlic to roast slowly, turning sweet and buttery without becoming overpowering. However, if you prefer, you can roast individual cloves separately or add minced garlic towards the end of baking, but it won t have quite the same mellow flavor.
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Can this recipe be made vegan?
Absolutely! Simply swap the feta for a vegan cheese alternative that melts well, and use a plant-based honey substitute like maple syrup or agave to maintain the sweet finish without animal products.
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What sides pair best with Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic Recipe?
It pairs well with green salads, grilled or roasted veggies, or as a side to grilled meats or fish. For a vegetarian meal, try alongside sautéed greens or a fresh tomato salad with lemon dressing.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic Recipe has become one of my easy go-to comfort foods that never fails to impress. The way those crispy potatoes soak up the sweet roasted garlic and tangy feta, then get brightened up with lemon and basil, is honestly so comforting and delicious. I hope you try it out soon and find it as satisfying and cozy as I do-it s one of those recipes that feels fancy but is surprisingly simple. Happy cooking, friend!
Print
Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and comforting dish featuring crispy roasted potatoes paired with creamy baked feta cheese and aromatic roasted garlic, enhanced with fresh herbs, lemon, and a drizzle of honey for a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1-2 large baking potatoes, washed and cubed
Cheese & Flavorings
- 7 oz (200 g) block of feta cheese
- 1 head of garlic, top sliced off
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 1 tablespoon honey
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup (20 g) fresh basil, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C). Wash the potatoes thoroughly, cut them into cubes, and place them in a baking dish.
- Season the Potatoes: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the potatoes. Sprinkle with dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat evenly.
- Add the Feta and Garlic: Place the block of feta in the center of the baking dish. For extra flavor, press one side of the feta into the seasonings on the potatoes before flipping it over. Add the garlic head and half the lemon wedges to the dish. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over everything.
- Bake to Perfection: Roast in the oven for 45-55 minutes until the potatoes are crispy and golden. Keep an eye on the garlic—if it starts to brown too much, remove it after about 35 minutes.
- Mash and Mix: Once the garlic is cool enough to handle, squeeze the softened cloves out of their skins. Use a knife to mash the roasted garlic into a paste. Add the garlic paste, juice from the remaining lemon wedges, and chopped basil to the baking dish. Gently mix the roasted potatoes and feta to combine the flavors.
- Finishing Touch: Drizzle the honey over the top and sprinkle with additional fresh basil for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm as a flavorful side dish or a comforting light main course.
Notes
- For crispier roasted potatoes with baked feta and garlic, soak potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before cubing.
- Variation: Add cherry tomatoes halfway through baking for a juicy, colorful twist that complements the creamy feta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 32 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
