If you’ve been hunting for that perfect side dish that s both comforting and fancy enough to wow your guests, this Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta, Garlic, and Basil Recipe is totally your answer. I love this because the combination of crispy golden potatoes with the creamy, tangy baked feta creates an irresistible contrast. Plus, the roasted garlic and fresh basil add layers of flavor that make every bite special-not to mention that lovely touch of honey at the end makes it feel indulgent without being too sweet.
You ll find that this recipe works beautifully for both casual dinners and fancy weekend meals. It s straightforward enough that even if you re not a seasoned cook, you ll feel like a kitchen pro. When I first tried this, I was amazed at how all the simple ingredients came together so magically, and my family goes crazy for it whenever I serve it. Trust me, once you make these Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta, Garlic, and Basil Recipe, it ll quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless but elegant: It feels fancy with minimal fuss, perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.
- Flavor-packed combo: The baked feta and roasted garlic elevate simple potatoes to something extraordinary.
- Versatile and customizable: Easily tweak herbs or add veggies to make it your own.
- Crowd-pleaser: From kids to adults, everyone seems to go back for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, yet together they create a harmony of crispy, creamy, and aromatic flavors that ll light up your dinner table. Here s what to keep in mind when shopping:
- Baking potatoes: I prefer large ones with a starchy texture for that crispy exterior and fluffy inside.
- Feta cheese block: A good quality block packs better flavor and a creamier melt than crumbled feta.
- Olive oil: Use extra virgin for that fruity, rich depth; it s worth the splurge here.
- Dried thyme and oregano: These classic Mediterranean herbs bring warmth and complement the feta perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, but adjust to taste as you go.
- Garlic head: Roasting the whole bulb turns the garlic into a buttery, mellow spread-magic!
- Lemon wedges: Fresh lemon juice brightens the whole dish with a lively citrus touch.
- Honey: Just a drizzle adds a subtle sweetness that balances savory flavors beautifully.
- Fresh basil: Must-have for a fresh, peppery finish that ties everything together.
Variations
While I adore the classic Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta, Garlic, and Basil Recipe, I also like to mix it up depending on what s in my fridge or the season. Feel free to customize it to match your taste or dietary needs!
- Add cherry tomatoes: I toss these in halfway through baking for pops of juiciness and color, plus they soak up all the flavors perfectly.
- Swap herbs: Try rosemary or fresh thyme if you want a different herby kick; it s fun to experiment with what you have.
- For a vegan twist: Leave out the feta and use a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or your favorite plant-based cheese instead.
- Spicy kick: Sprinkle red chili flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to wake up your taste buds.
How to Make Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta, Garlic, and Basil Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 390°F (200°C). Meanwhile, give your baking potatoes a good scrub and cube them into bite-sized pieces. I like to keep the pieces fairly uniform so everything cooks evenly-no one wants some crispy bits alongside undercooked chunks! Pop the potatoes into a baking dish and set aside.
Step 2: Season those Potatoes Nicely
Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over your potatoes, then sprinkle on the dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. I usually toss gently with my hands or a spoon to make sure each cube gets a nice coating. This step is crucial-it amps up the flavor and helps the potatoes crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Step 3: Add Feta, Garlic, and Lemon for That Flavor Boost
Place your block of feta smack dab in the center of the potatoes. Pro tip: press one side of the feta into the seasonings on the potatoes before flipping it-this seals in so much flavor! Add the whole garlic head, with the top sliced off, right beside the feta. Toss in half of the lemon wedges around the dish and drizzle with the remaining olive oil. This trio is where the magic starts to happen during roasting.
Step 4: Roast Until Golden and Melted
Pop your dish into the oven and roast for about 45 to 55 minutes. The potatoes should get golden and crispy while the feta becomes soft and spreadable. Keep an eye on the garlic: if you notice it browning too quickly around the 35-minute mark, pull it out early so it doesn t burn. The sweet, mellow flavor of that roasted garlic paste is something you want to savor.
Step 5: Mash Garlic and Finish It Off
Let that garlic cool enough to handle, then squeeze the softened cloves out of their skins. Use a knife to mash the garlic into a creamy paste. Add this garlic paste, the juice from the remaining lemon wedges, and the fresh chopped basil back into the baking dish. Gently toss everything to combine and coat the potatoes and feta in these luscious flavors.
Step 6: Sweeten and Serve!
Drizzle the honey over the entire dish and sprinkle with more fresh basil for a bright, fresh pop of color. Serve warm and watch as everyone digs in-your Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta, Garlic, and Basil Recipe will be gone before you know it!
Pro Tips for Making Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta, Garlic, and Basil Recipe
- Soak your potatoes: I discovered soaking potato cubes in cold water for 30 minutes before roasting makes them extra crispy-game changer!
- Don t over crowd the baking dish: Give your potatoes and feta some breathing room so they roast evenly instead of steaming.
- Watch your garlic closely: Roasted garlic can quickly go from mellow to bitter if it burns-timing here is key.
- Use fresh basil to finish: Added at the end, it keeps its bright, fresh flavor which really lifts the whole dish.
How to Serve Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta, Garlic, and Basil Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping this dish with extra fresh basil leaves for color and freshness, and sometimes a sprinkle of chili flakes if I want a little heat. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving adds a lovely sheen and boosts the flavor too.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with simple grilled chicken or fish, and a fresh green salad. I also like to serve it alongside sautéed greens like spinach or Swiss chard to add freshness and balance the richness of the feta and potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try serving the roasted potatoes in a large rustic cast-iron skillet right at the table so everyone can dig in family-style. I ve also layered them over warm pita bread or alongside a dollop of tzatziki for a Mediterranean-inspired twist that feels festive and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The potatoes will soften a bit, but the flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a tasty next-day treat.
Freezing
While freezing isn t ideal due to the texture of the potatoes and feta, I ve done it in a pinch. Just note that the feta may change slightly in texture once thawed, so it s best eaten fresh whenever possible.
Reheating
I reheat leftovers in a hot oven (around 375°F/190°C) to help crisp the potatoes back up-microwaving tends to leave them mushy. A quick 10-15 minutes does the trick, and be sure to add fresh basil after reheating for that fresh pop.
FAQs
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Can I use other types of potatoes for this Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta, Garlic, and Basil Recipe?
Absolutely! While baking potatoes work best due to their fluffy interior, Yukon Golds or red potatoes can also be used. Just keep in mind that waxy potatoes tend to hold their shape more and won’t get quite as fluffy inside, but they’ll still taste delicious.
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Do I have to use a whole head of garlic?
You do for the best flavor in this recipe! Roasting garlic whole mellows it into a buttery, spreadable texture that blends into the potatoes and feta perfectly. If you re short on garlic or prefer a lighter garlic flavor, you can reduce it or add minced garlic instead, but it won t have quite the same depth.
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Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses just potatoes, cheese, herbs, and aromatics. Just be sure that any sides or accompaniments you serve are also gluten-free to keep the meal safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
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How do I know when the feta is perfectly baked?
The baked feta should be soft and creamy with golden edges but not completely melted away. When you press gently with a fork or spoon, it should easily break apart and spread. If it s still hard or dry, it needs a bit more time in the oven.
Final Thoughts
This Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta, Garlic, and Basil Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it transforms simple ingredients into a dish that feels like a celebration on your plate. It s my go-to when I want to impress without stressing, and I m confident you ll enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do. So fire up your oven, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a try-you won t regret it!
Print
Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta, Garlic, and Basil Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic recipe combines crispy golden potatoes with creamy, tangy baked feta and rich roasted garlic. Enhanced with fragrant herbs and a touch of honey, this comforting dish is perfect for a flavorful side or even a light main course.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Seasonings
- 1-2 large baking potatoes, washed and cubed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
Dairy and Oil
- 7 oz (200 g) block of feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Additional Flavorings
- 1 head of garlic, top sliced off
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 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 hearty side or a light meal, enjoying the blend of crispy potatoes, creamy feta, and aromatic garlic.
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: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 25 mg
