If you are looking for a snack or side dish that bursts with flavor and texture, you will absolutely fall in love with Smashed Crispy Feta Potatoes with Garlic Butter Drizzle. This dish takes humble baby potatoes, crisps them to perfection, and then elevates them with a golden, tangy feta topping and a rich, aromatic garlic butter drizzle. It’s a harmonious blend of crispy edges, creamy cheese, and buttery garlic that makes every bite utterly addictive. Whether you’re serving this at a casual family meal or impressing guests at a dinner party, these potatoes promise a crowd-pleasing experience that’s both simple and decadent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Smashed Crispy Feta Potatoes with Garlic Butter Drizzle comes down to a handful of well-chosen ingredients, each playing a crucial role in bringing out layers of flavor, texture, and beautiful color. From the creamy baby potatoes to the tangy feta and the fragrant garlic butter, every component is essential for achieving that perfect balance.
- Baby Potatoes (800 g): Choose small, tender potatoes for creamy centers and crispy edges when smashed and roasted.
- Olive Oil (3 tbsp total): Divided into drizzling the potatoes and feta, it adds richness and helps the potatoes get that irresistible crisp.
- Salt (1 tsp): Enhances natural flavors, seasoning the potatoes perfectly.
- Black Pepper (½ tsp): Adds gentle heat and depth to the dish.
- Feta Cheese (150 g, crumbled): Tangy and salty, it crisps up beautifully in the oven, lending a stunning texture contrast.
- Dried Oregano (½ tsp): Brings a warm, herbal note that perfectly complements the feta.
- Chili Flakes (½ tsp, optional): For those who enjoy a hint of spice to elevate the flavor profile.
- Butter (3 tbsp): The base of the garlic butter drizzle, ideal for achieving silky richness.
- Garlic (3 cloves, finely minced): Provides a fragrant, savory punch that makes this drizzle utterly addictive.
- Fresh Lemon Juice (1 tbsp): Adds brightness and cuts through the richness with a refreshing tang.
- Fresh Parsley (1 tbsp, finely chopped): Offers a pop of green color and fresh herbal flavor that finishes the dish beautifully.
How to Make Smashed Crispy Feta Potatoes with Garlic Butter Drizzle
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes Until Tender
Start by placing your baby potatoes into a large pot, covering them generously with salted water. Boil for about 15 to 20 minutes until they’re fork-tender but still firm enough to hold their shape. This step ensures that the potatoes cook evenly and stay fluffy inside even after smashing and roasting.
Step 2: Gently Smash the Potatoes
Once drained, arrange the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Use the bottom of a glass to gently press down on each potato until they are roughly flattened but not falling apart. This smashing technique creates more surface area to get crunchy edges and a delightful texture contrast when roasted.
Step 3: Season and Roast
Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over the smashed potatoes, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste. Pop the tray into a preheated oven at 220°C (425°F) and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll want to watch for golden, crispy edges—which is the hallmark of perfectly roasted smashed potatoes.
Step 4: Add the Crispy Feta Topping
After removing the potatoes from the oven, sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese on top. Drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over the feta, then sprinkle dried oregano and chili flakes, if using. Return the tray to the oven for another 8 to 10 minutes until the feta turns lightly golden and crisp on the edges, infusing the potatoes with a tangy, salty richness.
Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Butter Drizzle
While the potatoes bake, melt butter gently in a small pan over low heat. Add the finely minced garlic and sauté for 30 to 40 seconds until fragrant but not browned, preserving that rich, mellow garlic flavor. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and finely chopped parsley, creating a bright, aromatic drizzle that perfectly finishes the dish.
Step 6: Drizzle and Serve
As soon as the potatoes are out of the oven, pour the warm garlic butter mixture over the top. The butter will soak into the crispy potatoes, marrying all the flavors in a beautifully rich and garlicky drizzle that takes this dish from delicious to unforgettable.
How to Serve Smashed Crispy Feta Potatoes with Garlic Butter Drizzle
Garnishes
Adding a little extra color and flavor can really boost the dish’s appeal. Try a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives to brighten the dish visually and add a fresh herbal touch. A light dusting of smoked paprika can also introduce a subtle smoky warmth that pairs wonderfully with the feta and garlic butter.
Side Dishes
These potatoes work beautifully alongside grilled meats like chicken or lamb, pairing perfectly with Mediterranean herbs and spices. They also hold their own next to a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly meal. Their rich, crispy texture makes them an easy favorite to complement almost any main course.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun appetizer, serve the smashed crispy feta potatoes on a large platter with lemon wedges, letting guests drizzle the garlic butter themselves. Alternatively, arrange them on individual plates with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki for dipping. Their rustic yet refined look also makes a charming addition to any brunch table spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers of Smashed Crispy Feta Potatoes with Garlic Butter Drizzle, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep their texture, it’s best to cool them completely before sealing the container.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this dish because the smashed potatoes tend to lose their crispiness and the feta’s texture can change after thawing. For best results, enjoy fresh or store leftovers in the fridge only.
Reheating
To reheat, spread the leftover potatoes on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 10 minutes. This will help restore some of the original crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the potatoes soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?
While feta is key for its tangy and crumbly texture, you can experiment with halloumi or goat cheese for different flavors. Just note that the texture and taste will vary, and feta offers the perfect balance for this recipe.
What if I don’t have baby potatoes? Can I use regular potatoes?
Yes! You can use regular potatoes—just cut them into smaller chunks before boiling. Baby potatoes are preferred because they cook evenly and have a naturally creamy texture, but larger potatoes work great too.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?
You can easily swap the butter for a vegan alternative and use a plant-based feta cheese substitute. The garlic butter drizzle and crispy potatoes will still pack plenty of flavor.
How spicy are the chili flakes in this recipe?
The chili flakes are optional and used sparingly, adding just a gentle kick that enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the dish. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference or omit entirely.
Can I prepare the garlic butter drizzle ahead of time?
The garlic butter drizzle is best made fresh just before serving to preserve its bright garlic flavor and the freshness of the parsley and lemon. However, you can prepare it a few hours in advance and gently rewarm before drizzling.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly comforting yet special about Smashed Crispy Feta Potatoes with Garlic Butter Drizzle. This recipe brings together the best of crispy textures, savory tanginess, and rich garlic butter in a way that feels both indulgent and approachable. I can’t wait for you to try making it yourself—it’s one of those dishes that turns any meal into a celebration of flavor and texture. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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