If you are looking for a dish that feels both indulgently comforting and fresh with every bite, the Baked Feta Potatoes with Roasted Garlic, Lemon, and Basil Recipe is an absolute must-try. This recipe brings together crispy golden potatoes, creamy tangy feta, aromatic roasted garlic, bright lemon juice, and fragrant basil in a way that hits all the right notes. It’s simple yet sophisticated, making it perfect for sharing with friends or savoring as a cozy night in. Trust me, once you taste these baked feta potatoes, they’ll quickly become one of your favorite go-to recipes for a delicious and memorable meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavor and texture. From the earthy potatoes to the fresh herbs, every element adds something special to the dish.
- 2 large baking potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes for a crisp outside and fluffy interior that holds up well to baking.
- 1 200g block of feta: The creamy, salty richness of feta cheese complements the potatoes beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a luscious mouthfeel and helps crisp the potatoes while roasting.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Gives a subtle earthy warmth that deepens the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a hint of Mediterranean herbaceousness to the mix.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the dish.
- 0.5 teaspoon red chili flakes: Sprinkled on top for just a gentle kick of spice.
- 1 head of garlic (top cut off): Roasting the garlic softens its sharpness into a sweet, caramelized flavor.
- 1 lemon, halved: Fresh lemon juice brightens the whole dish with zesty acidity.
- 1 tablespoon honey: Just a touch of honey balances the savory and tart elements with sweetness.
- 1/4 cup (20g) fresh basil: Adds a fresh, aromatic pop of green that makes the dish truly shine.
How to Make Baked Feta Potatoes with Roasted Garlic, Lemon, and Basil Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 200 degrees Celsius (or 390 degrees Fahrenheit). Meanwhile, wash and cube the baking potatoes, then par-boil them in a pot of boiling water for 6 to 8 minutes—this softens them enough to cook through during roasting without drying out. Drain the potatoes and let them steam dry for a couple of minutes; this step ensures they crisp up nicely in the oven.
Step 2: Season and Add Garlic
Next, toss the par-boiled potatoes in a baking dish with olive oil, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Be generous with the seasoning to build layers of flavor. Drizzle a little olive oil over the head of garlic (with the top cut off for easy roasting) and wrap it in foil before adding it to the dish alongside the potatoes. This roasted garlic will become divine, mellow, and irresistible.
Step 3: Roast the Potatoes and Garlic
Place your baking dish in the oven and roast for 30 to 40 minutes until the potatoes turn golden and crispy around the edges and are nearly cooked through. This roasting process develops those crave-worthy textures and deep, roasted flavors that make this dish memorable.
Step 4: Add Feta and Lemon
Remove the dish from the oven and carefully pull out the foil-wrapped garlic. Nestle the block of feta right in the center of the potatoes; dipping the feta in the seasoning before placing it adds an extra hit of flavor. Squeeze half a lemon over everything and then pop the dish back in the oven for another 15 minutes. This step allows the feta to soften and mingle with the roasted potatoes.
Step 5: Mash Roasted Garlic and Mix
Once cool enough to handle, squeeze the softened roasted garlic out of its skins and mash it with the flat side of your knife. Add the mashed garlic along with the juice from the other half of the lemon into the baking dish. Gently fold in the fresh basil leaves, letting their vibrant aroma elevate the dish. This finishing step brings all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
Step 6: Final Touches and Serve
Drizzle the potatoes and baked feta with honey and scatter red chili flakes on top for a hint of heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness. Now your Baked Feta Potatoes with Roasted Garlic, Lemon, and Basil Recipe is ready to serve and enjoy—golden, fragrant, creamy, and utterly delicious!
How to Serve Baked Feta Potatoes with Roasted Garlic, Lemon, and Basil Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil not only flavors the dish but adds a lovely splash of green, making the presentation simply inviting. For an extra pop, a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or a few lemon zest curls on top brings brightness and color. If you like a bit of crunch, toasted pine nuts or walnuts make an excellent finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to echo the recipe’s citrus notes. Grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even a light fish dish complement the flavors here, turning this into either a delightful main course or a savory side.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests, consider plating the baked feta potatoes in individual ramekins or rustic small cast iron pans for charming single servings. You can also turn leftovers into hearty potato skins by topping with extra feta and herbs and broiling until bubbly. Whatever your style, the Baked Feta Potatoes with Roasted Garlic, Lemon, and Basil Recipe lends itself to beautiful and tasty presentations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from the Baked Feta Potatoes with Roasted Garlic, Lemon, and Basil Recipe store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually enhance as they sit, making for delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze this dish by transferring cooled portions into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months, though some texture changes may occur with the potatoes and cheese after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit) until warmed through to maintain crispness. Microwaving is quicker but can soften the potatoes and feta texture somewhat.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While starchy baking potatoes work best for crispiness and fluffiness, Yukon Gold or even red potatoes can be used if you prefer a waxier texture. Just adjust cooking times slightly as needed.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
You can swap the feta for a plant-based cheese alternative suited for baking. Roasted garlic, lemon, and herbs remain the same, delivering plenty of punch without dairy.
How spicy is this dish with the red chili flakes?
The red chili flakes add a gentle heat that enhances but doesn’t overpower. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce or omit them; for more heat, sprinkle extra on when serving.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
You can par-boil and season the potatoes a few hours ahead and store them in the fridge, then roast fresh when ready to serve for the best results.
What can I substitute if I don’t have fresh basil?
Dried basil is an option, but the fresh variety really brightens the dish. Alternatively, fresh parsley, cilantro, or even mint can bring a new twist while keeping the herbaceous freshness.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Feta Potatoes with Roasted Garlic, Lemon, and Basil Recipe is one of those dishes that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your heart with comfort. It’s an easy recipe that feels luxurious and special but requires no complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. Whether for a weeknight family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try and savor every delicious bite!
Print
Baked Feta Potatoes with Roasted Garlic, Lemon, and Basil Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A deliciously savory and tangy baked feta potato dish featuring crispy par-boiled potatoes roasted with herbs, olive oil, and garlic, combined with creamy baked feta cheese, fresh basil, and a hint of honey and chili flakes for a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Seasonings
- 2 large baking potatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon red chilli flakes
Feta and Oil
- 1 200g block of feta
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
Other Ingredients
- 1 head of garlic (top cut off)
- 1 lemon, halved
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/4 cup (20g) fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) to prepare for roasting the potatoes and garlic.
- Parboil Potatoes: Wash and cube the potatoes. Place them in a saucepan, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Parboil for 6-8 minutes (no more than 10 minutes), then drain and let them steam dry for 2-3 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Season Potatoes: Transfer the parboiled potatoes to a baking dish. Add thyme, oregano, salt, pepper, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Toss well to evenly coat all the potatoes with the seasonings and oil.
- Prepare Garlic for Roasting: Drizzle the garlic head with a little olive oil, wrap it tightly in foil, and place it in the baking dish alongside the potatoes.
- Roast Potatoes and Garlic: Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes until the potatoes are golden, crispy, and nearly cooked through.
- Add Feta and Lemon: Remove the baking dish from the oven and carefully take out the roasted garlic. Place the 200g block of feta in the center of the tray, optionally dipping one side in seasonings before flipping it over for even flavor. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the feta and potatoes.
- Continue Baking: Return the dish to the oven for another 15 minutes to bake the feta until soft and slightly golden.
- Mash Roasted Garlic: Once the garlic is cool enough to handle, squeeze the cloves out of their skins and mash them with the flat of a knife until smooth. Set aside.
- Mix Garlic, Lemon, and Basil: Stir the mashed roasted garlic, juice of the other half of the lemon, and fresh basil into the baked potatoes and feta gently, combining all flavors without breaking up the potatoes too much.
- Add Final Touches: Drizzle 1 tablespoon of honey over the dish and sprinkle with the red chili flakes for a bit of heat and sweetness.
- Serve: Serve the baked feta potatoes warm as a hearty side dish or a vegetarian main course. Enjoy the perfect combination of creamy, tangy, crispy, and aromatic flavors.
Notes
- Parboiling the potatoes before roasting ensures they become crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Adjust the amount of red chili flakes to your preferred spice level or omit if sensitive to heat.
- Using fresh herbs like basil adds a bright, fresh note—feel free to substitute with parsley if preferred.
- The honey balances the tanginess of the feta and lemon; you can reduce it for a less sweet dish.
- For a milder garlic flavor, use 1-2 teaspoons of mashed roasted garlic instead of the whole head.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean