Ina Garten Crusty Baked Potatoes with Whipped Feta Recipe

When comfort meets sophistication, you get Ina Garten’s Crusty Baked Potatoes with Whipped Feta. This dish brings together crispy golden potatoes with a light, tangy whipped feta dip that’s rich, smooth, and deeply flavorful.

What Are Ina Garten’s Crusty Baked Potatoes with Whipped Feta?

This recipe features small potatoes baked until their skins are ultra-crispy and the insides are buttery soft. They’re smashed slightly to increase surface area, then roasted to golden perfection. The potatoes are served alongside or on top of a creamy whipped feta spread made by blending feta cheese, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic until silky smooth.

Other Ina Garten Recipes

• Ina Garten Tomato Feta Salad
• Ina Garten Tomatoes & Burrata
• Ina Garten’s Crispy Roasted Kale
• Ina Garten Eton Mess

Reasons to Try Ina Garten’s Crusty Potatoes with Whipped Feta

• Crispy outside, fluffy inside – The perfect potato texture
• Bold, tangy whipped feta – A refreshing change from sour cream or butter
• Easy to prep ahead – Roast the potatoes and chill the feta in advance
• Looks gourmet, feels rustic – Great for both dinner parties and casual meals
• Naturally gluten-free – Suitable for various dietary needs
• Pairs with so many dishes – From lamb chops to grilled veggies
• Flavor-packed and satisfying – Hits all the savory, salty, creamy notes

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten’s Crusty Baked Potatoes with Whipped Feta

For the potatoes:

• 2 pounds of baby Yukon gold or fingerling potatoes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

For the whipped feta:

• 6 oz feta cheese, crumbled
• 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt (full-fat preferred)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 small garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: lemon zest and chopped chives for garnish

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten’s Crusty Baked Potatoes with Whipped Feta

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 15–18 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Smash and Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place potatoes on a sheet pan lined with parchment. Use a glass or potato masher to gently press each potato until slightly flattened but still intact.

Step 3: Season and Bake

Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and herbs if using. Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Step 4: Make the Whipped Feta

While potatoes bake, combine feta, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil in a food processor or blender. Blend until very smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust salt and pepper. Chill until ready to serve.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Spread the whipped feta on a serving plate or spoon it into a bowl. Top with warm potatoes or serve them on the side for dipping. Garnish with lemon zest or herbs if desired.

What to Serve With Ina Garten’s Crusty Potatoes

• Grilled lamb or chicken – The creamy feta pairs beautifully with bold meats
• Seared salmon or tuna – A bright contrast to rich fish
• Roasted vegetables – Complements seasonal greens and roots
• Chopped Greek salad – Keeps things fresh and Mediterranean
• Charcuterie boards – Add potatoes and feta dip as a hearty component
• Poached eggs – Turn it into a brunch-worthy dish
• Warm pita or flatbread – Scoop up every last bit of whipped feta

Expert Tips for Mastering the Recipe

• Boil until fully tender – This helps the potatoes crisp better in the oven
• Dry potatoes before baking – Moisture reduces crispiness
• Use parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier
• Flip halfway for even crisping – Ensures both sides get golden
• Don’t over-blend the feta – Just until smooth and spreadable
• Chill the whipped feta before serving – Helps the flavors meld
• Serve potatoes hot – The contrast with cold whipped feta is perfect

Variations of the Recipe

• Add red pepper flakes to the feta – For a spicy kick
• Use sweet potatoes instead – For a slightly sweeter twist
• Top with caramelized onions – Adds savory depth
• Swirl in pesto to the feta – Gives it an herby lift
• Try with labneh or ricotta – As feta alternatives
• Add chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes – Mediterranean flair
• Make it vegan – Use plant-based feta and yogurt options

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate potatoes and feta separately – Keeps each fresh
• Use airtight containers – Prevents drying and absorbs less odor
• Store whipped feta for up to 4 days – Stir before reusing
• Reheat potatoes in oven or air fryer – Regains crispness
• Avoid microwaving feta dip – Serve it chilled
• Do not freeze whipped feta – Texture will separate
• Label containers with date – Use within best time frame

How Do I Reheat Ina Garten’s Crusty Potatoes?

• Reheat in oven at 375°F – 10–15 minutes until hot and crisp
• Use air fryer for extra crispness – 5–8 minutes at 375°F
• Avoid microwaving – Makes potatoes soggy
• Drizzle with olive oil before reheating – Helps restore crunch
• Keep feta cold – Don’t warm the dip, serve as a contrast
• Reheat only what you’ll eat – For best texture
• Serve immediately after reheating – Crispness fades over time

Nutritional Value (per serving)

• Calories: 290
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Protein: 6g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 420mg

FAQs

How do I make potatoes extra crispy in the oven?

To get extra crispy potatoes, boil them first until tender, smash gently, then roast at a high temperature with enough olive oil. Make sure they’re dry before baking and flip halfway through.

Can I make the whipped feta ahead of time?

Yes, whipped feta can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and stir before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Baby Yukon gold or fingerling potatoes are ideal because they have a creamy interior and crisp up nicely when smashed and roasted.

How do I serve whipped feta with baked potatoes?

You can either spread the whipped feta on a platter and top it with hot potatoes or serve it on the side as a dip. Garnish with herbs or lemon zest for extra flavor.

Final Words

Ina Garten’s Crusty Baked Potatoes with Whipped Feta prove that a simple potato can become something unforgettable. With their golden edges and creamy, tangy accompaniment, these potatoes steal the show at any meal. They’re proof that comfort food and elegance can go hand in hand—with very little effort.

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