These Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes are a cheesy delight! They feature fluffy potatoes topped with creamy feta cheese that melts beautifully—you’ll want to dive right in!
Honestly, who can resist that ooey-gooey cheese? I love serving these with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. They’re perfect for a cozy dinner or just because! 🥔🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Yellow Potatoes: These potatoes have a lovely creamy texture. You can also use baby red potatoes or Yukon Golds if you prefer. They’ll yield a similar delicious result!
Olive Oil: This helps to crisp up the potatoes. If you want a different flavor, avocado oil or melted butter can work as substitutes.
Feta Cheese: Feta gives a tangy flavor. If you’re not a fan, try goat cheese or ricotta for a different spin, though they will give a different taste and texture.
Herbs: Fresh thyme is great here but feel free to swap in dried herbs or use rosemary for a more fragrant layer. Fresh herbs like parsley can also brighten the dish.
How Do I Get Crispy Potatoes?
Achieving crispy potatoes can be a bit tricky, but it’s all about the temperature and cooking time. Here’s the secret:
- Start with a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) to ensure immediate heat for the potatoes.
- Make sure the potatoes are spread out in a single layer. Overcrowding means they’ll steam instead of crisp.
- Don’t hesitate to use a bit more oil if you want extra crispiness. Just toss the potatoes well to ensure they’re fully coated.
- Flip the potatoes halfway through cooking (around 20 minutes) to evenly brown all sides.
Following these tips, you’ll have crunchy, golden potatoes that taste amazing with the melted feta on top!
Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds baby yellow potatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 7 ounces feta cheese, cut into small cubes or crumbled
- Fresh thyme sprigs (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation, followed by approximately 40-50 minutes of baking time. You’ll spend a little time cutting and mixing, and then let the oven do the work. In no time, you’ll have deliciously cheesy baked potatoes ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is important to make sure the potatoes cook evenly and get crispy. You might want to line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light grease to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, combine the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, and salt and pepper. If you’d like, add the optional dried thyme or rosemary for that extra herby flavor. Toss everything well until the potatoes are coated nicely.
3. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:
Take the potatoes and place them cut side down on the lined baking sheet. This will help them get that lovely golden, crispy exterior while they bake.
4. First Bake:
Pop the baking sheet into the oven and let the potatoes bake for about 30-40 minutes. They should be golden brown and tender when you poke them with a fork. You can check halfway through and flip them if you’d like more even browning.
5. Add the Feta:
Once the potatoes are perfectly baked, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Sprinkle the cubes or crumbled feta cheese evenly over the hot potatoes. The heat will slowly melt the cheese—a delightful sight!
6. Final Bake:
Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 8-10 minutes. You want the feta to soften and brown just a bit for that perfect cheesy topping.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Take the baking sheet out of the oven and sprinkle fresh thyme sprigs over the top of the potatoes. This not only adds color but also a wonderful aroma. Serve the potatoes warm as a tasty side dish or a cheesy snack, and enjoy!
These Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes are a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion—so dig in and savor every cheesy bite!
FAQ for Easy Cheesy Baked Feta Potatoes
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While feta is delicious, you can try goat cheese, ricotta, or even mozzarella for a different flavor. Just keep in mind that each cheese will give a unique taste and texture to the dish.
What If I Don’t Have Baby Potatoes?
No problem! You can use regular potatoes, but cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking. Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well in this recipe too!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the potatoes and coat them with the seasonings up to a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, add the feta before baking as directed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
