If you’ve been searching for a dish that is irresistibly comforting, full of vibrant flavors, and wonderfully simple to make, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite: the Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon and Herbs Recipe. This dish brings together crispy, golden potatoes infused with the tangy creaminess of baked feta cheese, all brightened up by zesty lemon and fragrant herbs. The combination of textures and flavors is truly next-level, making it an easy crowd-pleaser that feels both fresh and indulgent at the same time. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe will undoubtedly become a cherished staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes the Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon and Herbs Recipe so delightful is its straightforward yet thoughtfully selected ingredients. Each element works harmoniously to balance rich, savory, tangy, and herbal notes while providing a satisfying variety of textures from crispy to creamy.
- Large baking potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes for the perfect crispy edges and fluffy inside.
- Block of feta (200g): This creamy, salty cheese melts beautifully and adds a luscious texture.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps crisp up the potatoes for that golden finish.
- Dried thyme (1 tsp): Imparts a subtle earthiness that complements the potatoes splendidly.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): Brings a classic Mediterranean aroma and depth to the dish.
- Salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- Black pepper (1 tsp): Adds a gentle heat and complexity.
- Head of garlic (top cut off): Roasted garlic offers mellow sweetness and creamy richness once mashed.
- Lemon (quartered): Provides brightness and a fresh citrus punch essential for balance.
- Honey (1 tbsp): A subtle touch of sweetness to brighten the savory elements.
How to Make Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon and Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C). This high heat is key to achieving those perfectly crispy potatoes that contrast so well with creamy feta.
Step 2: Cube the Potatoes
Wash your potatoes thoroughly and cut them into bite-sized cubes. The size is important — too big and they won’t crisp properly; too small and they might overcook. Place them in a baking dish ready for seasoning.
Step 3: Season the Potatoes
Sprinkle your potatoes generously with dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over them and toss until every cube is beautifully coated. This step ensures every bite bursts with flavor and has the right texture.
Step 4: Add Feta, Garlic, and Lemon
Place the entire block of feta right in the center of your potato-filled baking dish. Nestle the head of garlic (with the top sliced off) and the lemon quarters around it. Drizzle the remaining olive oil over the whole dish to help everything bake to golden, aromatic perfection.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop the dish into the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. You’re looking for golden, crispy potatoes and a soft, bubbling feta block. The aroma at this stage is absolutely mouthwatering.
Step 6: Mash Roasted Garlic into Potatoes
Once cooked, carefully remove the garlic from the dish. Squeeze out the softened cloves and mash them directly into the warm potatoes. This roasted garlic will add a sweet, mellow depth that’s truly transformative.
Step 7: Combine Feta and Finish
Finally, mash the baked feta into the potatoes and garlic mixture. Add a generous squeeze of lemon juice and drizzle the honey over the top for a hint of sweetness that balances the tangy feta and bright lemon. Give everything a gentle toss to combine.
How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon and Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
To take this dish from delicious to stunning, garnish with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a vibrant color contrast and a fresh herbal note. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil right before serving can also elevate the flavors.
Side Dishes
This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Serve it as a hearty side to grilled meats or roasted chicken, or alongside a crisp green salad for a lighter meal. It also pairs excellently with Mediterranean staples like tzatziki or roasted vegetables for a wholesome spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon and Herbs Recipe in individual ramekins or rustic ceramic dishes. Drizzle with a little extra lemon juice at the table for a final, fresh citrus zing. Add edible flowers or microgreens for a restaurant-quality presentation that your guests will admire before savoring.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover baked feta potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making them perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh for the optimal texture, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the texture of potatoes might soften slightly after freezing and reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the potatoes in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. This helps restore some crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the potatoes mushy and the feta less pleasant in texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While starchy baking potatoes like Russets work best for crispiness, you can use Yukon Golds for a creamier interior. Just adjust baking time slightly if needed.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
You can substitute the feta with a plant-based cheese alternative that melts well, but the flavor profile will change. Using roasted garlic, lemon, and herbs will still keep it deliciously flavorful.
Can this dish be made ahead of time and reheated?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store leftovers in the fridge. Just reheat in the oven to maintain the crisp texture and melty feta goodness.
How important is the lemon in this recipe?
Lemon adds a crucial bright acidity that balances the richness of the feta and potatoes, uplifting the entire dish. Don’t skip it or substitute with vinegar unless you’re aiming for a different flavor profile.
What herbs work best besides thyme and oregano?
Fresh rosemary or marjoram also work beautifully in this recipe. You can experiment with fresh herbs to find your favorite combination but keep quantities moderate to avoid overpowering flavors.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to make the Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon and Herbs Recipe a weekly favorite. It’s the perfect harmony of crispy, creamy, bright, and herbal that’s incredibly easy to prepare but feels so special. Trust me, once you try it, this dish will earn a permanent spot on your table and in your heart.
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Baked Feta Potatoes with Lemon and Herbs Recipe
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 2 to 3 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked Feta Potatoes is a comforting and flavorful side dish featuring golden, crispy potato cubes baked with a creamy block of feta cheese, aromatic herbs, garlic, lemon, and a touch of honey. This easy-to-make recipe combines savory and tangy elements, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Cheese
- 1–2 large baking potatoes
- 1 (200g) block of feta
Seasonings and Flavorings
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 head of garlic (top cut off)
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 1 tbsp honey
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking the potatoes to a golden, crispy finish.
- Prepare the potatoes: Wash the potatoes thoroughly and cut them into cubes. Place the cubed potatoes into a baking dish to get ready for seasoning.
- Season the potatoes: Sprinkle the dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper evenly over the potatoes. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss everything to coat the potatoes evenly with the herbs and oil.
- Add feta and aromatics: Place the whole block of feta cheese in the center of the baking dish surrounded by the seasoned potatoes. Add the head of garlic with the top cut off and the lemon quarters around the potatoes and cheese. Drizzle a little more olive oil over everything to add moisture and enhance flavors.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes. Monitor towards the end to ensure the potatoes become golden and crispy, and the feta softens and lightly browns.
- Prepare garlic and potatoes: Once baked, carefully remove the garlic from the dish. Squeeze out the softened garlic cloves and mash them into the potatoes to infuse them with a mellow garlic flavor.
- Mix and serve: Mash the baked feta cheese and mix it with the potatoes and garlic thoroughly. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the mixture, garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve warm for a delicious meal or side dish.
Notes
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, especially the salt since feta can be salty.
- For a vegan alternative, substitute feta with a plant-based cheese or seasoned tofu.
- You can add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for extra freshness when serving.
- The honey adds a subtle sweetness to balance the tangy feta—feel free to reduce or omit if preferred.
- Serve with a simple green salad or alongside grilled meats for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
