Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

If you’re looking for the perfect side dish that’s both simple and packed with flavor, look no further than these Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic. It’s the kind of recipe that transforms humble ingredients—like potatoes, garlic, and cheese—into something unexpectedly elegant and completely satisfying.

Inspired by a dish I tried at a cozy Mediterranean-style café, this combination of crispy potatoes, creamy feta, and sweet roasted garlic has become one of my all-time favorite comfort foods. It’s hearty, it’s flavorful, and it takes minimal effort to pull together. Plus, with a hint of honey and a pop of fresh basil, it feels just a little bit gourmet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor
• Versatile enough for any season
• Easy to prep and mostly hands-off
• Perfect as a side or vegetarian main
• Gorgeous presentation and crowd-pleasing flavor

Ingredients

• 1–2 large baking potatoes, washed and cubed
• 7 oz (200 g) block of feta cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 head of garlic, top sliced off
• 1 lemon, quartered
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ¼ cup (20 g) fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45–55 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Servings: 4

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C). Wash the potatoes well and cut them into bite-sized cubes. Place them in a medium-sized baking dish or a sheet pan with edges.

Step 2: Season the Potatoes

Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the cubed potatoes. Sprinkle with dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat the potatoes evenly with the oil and spices.

Step 3: Add the Feta and Garlic

Place the block of feta in the center of the baking dish, pressing it gently into the seasoning for extra flavor. Add the head of garlic and two of the lemon wedges to the dish.

Drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over the garlic and feta, ensuring it gets a little love too.

Step 4: Roast to Golden Perfection

Place the dish in the preheated oven and roast for 45–55 minutes, or until the potatoes are crispy on the outside and fork-tender inside.

Tip: Check the garlic at the 35-minute mark. If it’s browning too fast, remove it early to prevent burning.

Step 5: Mash the Garlic and Mix

Once the garlic is cool enough to handle, squeeze the softened cloves out of their skins and mash into a paste using a fork or knife.

Add this garlic paste back into the dish along with the juice from the remaining lemon wedges and the chopped fresh basil.

Use a spatula or spoon to gently stir and combine the potatoes, melted feta, and garlic paste into a creamy, flavorful mix.

Step 6: Final Touches

Drizzle the honey over the entire dish for a sweet, sticky finish that balances the tang of the feta and brightness of the lemon.

Top with additional basil for color and freshness.

Tips for Success

• Soak for crispiness: Soak your cubed potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before baking to help them crisp up better.
• Choose the right feta: Look for a block of feta packed in brine for the best creamy texture.
• Add color: Toss in cherry tomatoes or bell peppers halfway through baking for extra flavor and color.
• No feta? Try this with soft goat cheese or even ricotta for a twist.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it as:

• A side with roasted chicken, lamb, or grilled fish
• A vegetarian main dish with a green salad
• A brunch item topped with a fried or poached egg
• A warm bowl with a side of crusty bread to soak up the juices

Storage & Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a 375°F oven or air fryer for 10 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture of the potatoes intact.

Make It Your Own

• Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or a drizzle of hot honey.
• Herb swap: Try fresh dill, parsley, or mint instead of basil.
• Add protein: Toss in chickpeas or top with grilled chicken or tofu.
• Cheese lovers: Mix in a bit of mozzarella or sharp cheddar for extra melt.

Final Thoughts

Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic is more than just a side dish—it’s a flavor experience. It’s simple, rustic, and satisfying, with a creamy-savory-sweet balance that keeps you going back for more.

Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or pulling together a quick weeknight meal, this dish proves that sometimes, the best meals come from the simplest ingredients.