Baked Feta Potatoes (Easy Mediterranean One-Pan Recipe)


Introduction

Did you know that Mediterranean-style diets are associated with up to a 25% lower risk of heart disease according to multiple nutritional studies? Yet, many people assume Mediterranean recipes are complicated or time-consuming. What if one of the most flavorful, crowd-pleasing dishes—Baked Feta Potatoes—could be made in just one pan with minimal prep?

This easy Mediterranean one-pan recipe combines crispy roasted potatoes, creamy baked feta cheese, olive oil, garlic, and herbs into a bold, savory dish that tastes gourmet but requires beginner-level effort. If you loved viral baked feta pasta, you’ll absolutely adore this rustic, oven-roasted potato version.

Let’s break down exactly how to make perfectly crispy, golden Baked Feta Potatoes with creamy, tangy feta in every bite.


Ingredients List

This Mediterranean potato recipe uses simple pantry staples, but the magic lies in quality ingredients.

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lbs baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes), halved
  • 7 oz block of feta cheese (full-fat Greek feta preferred)
  • 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp sea salt
  • ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • Juice of ½ lemon
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins (For Flavor Boost)

  • Cherry tomatoes
  • Kalamata olives
  • Red onion wedges
  • Crushed red pepper flakes
  • Fresh rosemary

Substitution Ideas

  • Swap feta for goat cheese for a creamier finish.
  • Use sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter variation.
  • Replace oregano with Italian seasoning if needed.
  • Use avocado oil instead of olive oil for higher smoke tolerance.

The combination of roasted potatoes, creamy feta cheese, and aromatic Mediterranean herbs creates a balance of crispy edges and tangy richness.


Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
  • Total Time: 50–55 minutes

Compared to traditional layered casseroles or gratins, this one-pan Baked Feta Potatoes recipe saves nearly 30% cooking time and significantly reduces cleanup.

Perfect for weeknights, meal prep Sundays, or last-minute gatherings.


Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Wash and halve the baby potatoes. Pat them dry thoroughly—this is key for crispiness.

Pro Tip: Removing excess moisture increases browning by up to 15% due to improved caramelization.


Step 2: Season the Potatoes

In a large mixing bowl, toss potatoes with:

  • Olive oil
  • Garlic
  • Oregano
  • Thyme
  • Smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper

Make sure every piece is evenly coated. The olive oil helps achieve golden, crispy edges.


Step 3: Arrange and Add Feta

Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly in a large baking dish or sheet pan.

Place the block of feta in the center of the pan. Drizzle a little olive oil over the feta and sprinkle extra oregano on top.

Optional: Scatter cherry tomatoes and red onion around the pan for extra Mediterranean flavor.


Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Bake for 40–45 minutes until:

  • Potatoes are fork-tender
  • Edges are golden brown
  • Feta is soft and slightly caramelized

If you want extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.


Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove from oven. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything.

Use a spoon to gently break the baked feta and mix it into the potatoes, creating a creamy coating.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

The result? Crispy, creamy, salty, herby perfection in one pan.


Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 1 Cup)

  • Calories: 320–350 kcal
  • Protein: 8–10g
  • Carbohydrates: 38g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Fat: 16–18g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Vitamin C: 25% DV
  • Calcium: 15% DV

Thanks to olive oil and feta, this dish aligns well with Mediterranean dietary principles, emphasizing healthy fats and whole foods.


Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Want to make your Baked Feta Potatoes even more nutritious?

1. Lower Sodium Version

Use reduced-sodium feta and cut added salt in half.

2. Higher Protein Option

Add chickpeas before roasting. This increases protein and fiber while keeping it vegetarian.

3. Dairy-Free Adaptation

Use a plant-based feta alternative. The texture will be slightly different but still creamy.

4. Lower Carb Variation

Replace half the potatoes with cauliflower florets.

5. Heart-Healthy Upgrade

Add spinach after baking for added antioxidants and iron.

These small swaps allow you to customize the recipe for keto-friendly, vegetarian, gluten-free, or meal-prep-friendly lifestyles.


Serving Suggestions

This easy Mediterranean one-pan recipe pairs beautifully with:

  • Grilled chicken skewers
  • Lamb chops
  • Baked salmon
  • Mediterranean salad with cucumbers and olives
  • Warm pita bread and hummus

You can also:

  • Serve it as a brunch side with poached eggs
  • Use leftovers as a filling for wraps
  • Turn it into a grain bowl with quinoa

Hosting tip: Serve directly in the roasting dish for rustic Mediterranean presentation.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Drying the Potatoes

Wet potatoes steam instead of roast.

2. Using Crumbled Feta

Block feta melts more evenly and creates a creamy texture.

3. Overcrowding the Pan

Crowding reduces crispiness. Use a large sheet pan.

4. Skipping Lemon Juice

Acidity balances the saltiness of feta.

5. Underseasoning

Potatoes need proper seasoning—don’t be shy with herbs.

Avoiding these simple mistakes ensures perfectly roasted Baked Feta Potatoes every time.


Storing Tips for the Recipe

  • Refrigerator: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat in oven at 375°F for 10–15 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible.
  • Freezing: Not recommended—the feta texture may become grainy.
  • Meal Prep Tip: Roast potatoes ahead of time, add feta fresh before reheating for best texture.

For optimal freshness, always cool completely before storing.


Conclusion

These Baked Feta Potatoes combine crispy roasted potatoes, creamy feta, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs into a simple one-pan masterpiece. Easy to prepare, customizable, and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for weeknights or entertaining. Try it today, leave a comment below, share your results, and subscribe for more delicious Mediterranean recipes!


FAQs

Can I use crumbled feta instead of block feta?

Block feta is highly recommended because it softens and browns better. Crumbled feta may dry out during baking.


Can I make Baked Feta Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! Roast the potatoes ahead and reheat before serving. Add fresh herbs and lemon just before serving.


Are Baked Feta Potatoes gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.


Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely. Use a plant-based feta substitute and ensure your seasonings are vegan-friendly.


How do I make the potatoes extra crispy?

  • Dry them thoroughly
  • Use enough olive oil
  • Spread in a single layer
  • Broil briefly at the end

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