Name: Mediterranean Baked Feta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 8 ounces block feta cheese; 1 cup pitted olives, drained and halved; ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and roughly chopped; ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon dried basil; pinch red pepper flakes; kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; roughly chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 32 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that’s as vibrant in flavor as it is simple to prepare, you absolutely must try this Mediterranean Baked Feta Recipe. Picture a warm, bubbling block of tangy feta cheese surrounded by briny olives, sweet sun-dried tomatoes, and fragrant herbs all roasted to perfection in rich olive oil. This dish brings together the vibrant tastes of the Mediterranean in a way that feels both comforting and elegant, perfect for everything from a casual snack to a stunning appetizer that wows guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled with layers of green olives, some whole and some cut in half, mixed with pieces of sun-dried tomatoes that are dark red and wrinkled. The olives and tomatoes are coated in a light layer of olive oil with visible specks of chopped garlic and herbs scattered evenly throughout. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl, slightly tilted, showing the glistening texture of the ingredients. The colors range from the shiny green olives to the deep red sun-dried tomatoes, creating a fresh and vibrant mix photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this recipe sing with authentic Mediterranean flavors. Each component plays a crucial role, whether balancing the sharpness of the feta or adding layers of earthiness and brightness.

8 ounces block feta cheese: The star of the show, providing a creamy, salty foundation that melts beautifully when baked.
1 cup pitted olives, drained and halved: Adds a briny richness and a delightful bite to the mix.
½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and roughly chopped: Brings a concentrated sweetness with chewy texture.
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil: Essential for roasting, this oil infuses the dish with fruity depth and keeps the feta luscious.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic elevates every element with its pungent, fragrant punch.
½ teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Mediterranean herb that adds warmth and earthiness.
½ teaspoon dried thyme: Offers subtle floral notes that complement both cheese and vegetables.
½ teaspoon dried basil: Provides a sweet, slightly peppery aroma to round out flavors.
Pinch red pepper flakes: For a gentle heat that awakens the palate without overwhelming.
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: To season perfectly and enhance all other flavors.
Roughly chopped fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds a splash of color and a fresh herbal finish.

How to Make Mediterranean Baked Feta Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by warming your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it reaches temperature, choose a small baking dish that snugly fits your block of feta—this helps the cheese bake evenly and prevents drying out.

Step 2: Arrange the Ingredients

Place the block of feta in the center of your dish. Scatter the pitted olives and chopped sun-dried tomatoes around the cheese, making sure everything is distributed evenly for balanced flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Season and Add Olive Oil

Sprinkle the minced garlic, oregano, thyme, basil, red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper all over the cheese and vegetables. Drizzle the olive oil generously over the entire dish to ensure a rich roasting bath that will make the feta creamy and the toppings tender.

Step 4: Bake Until Melty and Golden

Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the feta is soft around the edges and bubbling slightly with golden spots. The aromas filling your kitchen will already have you reaching for a crusty loaf of bread.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the top. This not only brightens the dish visually but also adds a fresh pop of flavor that cuts through the richness.

How to Serve Mediterranean Baked Feta Recipe

The image shows a white oval baking dish filled with a thick, rectangular piece of baked cheese that is golden brown on top. The cheese is surrounded by whole and sliced green olives and wrinkled sun-dried tomatoes, all mixed in a light oily sauce with herbs sprinkled over everything. A square, light brown cracker is partially dipped into the cheese, which is soft and slightly broken near the cracker. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a gray and white striped cloth partially visible on one side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or even a light drizzle of honey can be lovely to finish your Mediterranean Baked Feta Recipe. The herbs bring vibrancy while a touch of honey adds unexpected sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the salty cheese.

Side Dishes

This dish is a perfect partner for toasted baguette slices, warm pita bread, or crunchy crackers, allowing you to scoop up every bit of the luscious feta mixture. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to complement the Mediterranean flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Mediterranean Baked Feta Recipe family-style, letting everyone dig in around the table. Alternatively, use the baked feta as a rich topping for grilled chicken or roasted eggplant to elevate an everyday dinner into something truly special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making your next meal just as delightful.

Freezing

Freezing baked feta isn’t ideal as the texture of the cheese can change. However, if you need to, freeze it tightly wrapped and thaw it slowly in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To reheat, place your leftovers in a small ovenproof dish and warm at 350°F (175°C) until just heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain that lovely creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of feta?

Feta is key to this recipe because of its tangy flavor and crumbly texture, but you could experiment with halloumi or fresh goat cheese for a different twist, keeping in mind that the texture and saltiness will vary.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

For a vegan alternative, try using a plant-based feta-style cheese and follow the cooking process as usual. The vegetables and seasoning provide plenty of flavor to complement the substitute.

How spicy is the Mediterranean Baked Feta Recipe?

The pinch of red pepper flakes adds just a subtle heat, so the dish is generally mild and approachable. Feel free to add more if you enjoy a spicier kick!

What type of olives should I use?

Any good-quality pitted olives work well—Kalamata, Castelvetrano, or green olives all bring different flavor profiles, so choose based on your preference for saltiness and fruitiness.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can assemble the dish a few hours before baking and keep it covered in the fridge to let the flavors meld, then bake fresh just before serving for the best texture and aroma.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Baked Feta Recipe is such a joyful blend of bold flavors and comforting textures that I can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re serving it for a weekend gathering or a simple family dinner, it’s always a winner. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes one of your favorite go-to dishes for sharing good times and great food.