Roasted Potatoes with Baked Feta and Garlic

A warm and hearty dish, this recipe brings together crispy roasted potatoes, creamy baked feta, and sweet roasted garlic. Finished with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of fresh basil, it’s a flavorful and comforting option that’s simple enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish blends creamy, salty, sweet, and savory flavors into every bite. The roasted garlic mellows out to a smooth paste, the feta turns soft and luscious, and the potatoes crisp up beautifully. I find it makes an excellent side dish or even a satisfying light main course. Plus, it comes together with minimal effort and just a handful of ingredients.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1–2 large baking potatoes, washed and cubed

• 7 oz 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 fresh basil, chopped

Directions

1. I preheat my oven to 390°F (200°C) and wash and cube the potatoes. I spread them evenly in a baking dish.

2. I drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the potatoes, then season with thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. I toss them well to coat.

3. I nestle the block of feta into the center of the dish and place the garlic head and half of the lemon wedges around it. I drizzle everything with the remaining olive oil.

4. I bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until the potatoes are golden and crisp. I check the garlic after 35 minutes and remove it early if it’s browning too fast.

5. Once slightly cooled, I squeeze the garlic cloves from their skins and mash them into a paste. I mix it into the dish along with the juice from the remaining lemon wedges and chopped basil.

6. I drizzle honey over the top and finish with more fresh basil for garnish.

7. I serve it warm and enjoy the blend of savory and sweet flavors.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Variations

• I sometimes soak the cubed potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before roasting for extra crispiness.

• I add cherry tomatoes in the last 10 minutes of baking for a juicy, colorful variation.

• I use goat cheese instead of feta when I want a tangier flavor, though it won’t melt the same way.

Storage/Reheating

To store, I let leftovers cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I warm them in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 10 to 15 minutes to revive the crisp texture and gently melt the cheese. I avoid the microwave to preserve the quality of the dish.

FAQs

What type of potatoes should I use?

I like using baking potatoes like russets or Yukon Golds because they get nice and crispy while staying fluffy inside.

Can I substitute dried herbs with fresh ones?

Yes, I often use fresh thyme or oregano if I have them on hand. I use about three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to dried.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It is naturally gluten-free, which makes it a great choice for guests with dietary restrictions. I just check the packaging on my feta and honey to be sure.

Can I use a different cheese?

I’ve swapped feta with goat cheese or even halloumi. Goat cheese gives a tangy creaminess, while halloumi keeps its shape and adds a chewy texture.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

I prep the potatoes and seasonings earlier in the day and assemble everything in the baking dish. I store it in the fridge, then bring it to room temperature before baking.

Conclusion

This roasted potato and baked feta dish is one of my go-to recipes when I want something comforting and full of flavor with minimal prep. The combination of crispy potatoes, creamy cheese, and sweet garlic is irresistible, and the fresh lemon and basil add a lovely brightness. I always look forward to making and sharing this simple, satisfying dish.