These creamy baked feta potatoes are a cheesy delight, filled with soft, fluffy potatoes and topped with baked feta that just oozes flavor. It’s comfort food at its best!
Pair this dish with a simple salad and you’ve got a meal that’s perfect for any day! I can’t help but sneak an extra scoop when no one’s looking. 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: I love using baby potatoes for their buttery texture. You can swap in fingerling or small red potatoes if you can’t find baby potatoes, as they will work just as well!
Feta Cheese: A block of feta gives the best results, but you can use crumbled feta in a pinch. If you need a dairy-free option, try using a plant-based cream cheese instead, though the flavor will be different.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the dish won’t be quite as creamy. If you’re avoiding dairy, almond or coconut cream could be a nice alternative.
Herbs: Oregano and thyme bring great flavor! If you don’t have those, Italian seasoning or even fresh herbs like rosemary or basil can work too. I usually prefer fresh herbs for a pop of color and taste!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Roasted Potatoes?
Roasting potatoes is where the magic happens! To get them tender and golden, follow these tips:
- Cut your potatoes into uniform sizes so they cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking dish as they need room to crisp up. Use two pans if necessary.
- Don’t rush the roasting! Let them roast without stirring too much so they develop a nice, golden surface.
Following these steps will get you crispy, perfectly roasted potatoes every time! Enjoy your creamy goodness! 🌟
Creamy Baked Feta Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes (or small new potatoes), halved or quartered
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Feta Layer:
- 8 ounces block of feta cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or crème fraîche for extra creaminess)
For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes for prep and 40-50 minutes for cooking, so you can expect a total time of around 50-60 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for roasting the potatoes and achieving that lovely golden color!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a baking dish, toss the halved or quartered baby potatoes with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, thyme (if using), salt, and pepper. Make sure the potatoes are well-coated!
3. Roast the Potatoes:
Place the dish in the oven and roast the potatoes for about 25-30 minutes. You want them to become tender and start to brown. Give them a poke with a fork to check for tenderness!
4. Add the Feta:
Once the potatoes are ready, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Nestle the block of feta cheese right in the center of the potatoes.
5. Add Cream and Oil:
Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the feta. Then pour the heavy cream evenly over the potatoes and feta. This will create a creamy, dreamy sauce!
6. Bake Again:
Return the dish to the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes. You’re looking for the feta to turn golden and the cream to bubble slightly.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once done, take the dish out and let it cool for a few minutes. Finally, sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill, and add a little lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice if you like a fresh kick!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the creamy baked feta potatoes warm, either as a hearty side dish or as a satisfying vegetarian main. Get ready to enjoy those creamy, tangy flavors!
Bon appétit! 🥔🧀✨
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are great for their creamy texture, you can use small red or Yukon gold potatoes. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking!
What If I Don’t Have Heavy Cream?
No worries! You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or unsweetened almond milk, though the texture will differ slightly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions if you’re in a hurry!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
You can prep the potatoes and seasonings ahead of time! Just combine everything and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to cook, just add the feta and cream before roasting!
