Experience the rich, savory flavors of the Mediterranean with this Albanian Baked Feta Recipe. Perfectly golden, creamy feta is baked with aromatic herbs and fresh vegetables, creating a dish that is both irresistible and easy to prepare. This traditional Albanian-style feta bake brings the taste of Albania to your kitchen in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for brunch, appetizers, or a quick weeknight snack. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving comfort food, this recipe will delight your senses and impress your guests.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Why You’ll Love This Albanian Baked Feta Recipe
Authentic Flavor: A true taste of Albania with oregano, olive oil, and fresh vegetables.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25–30 minutes from prep to table.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Packed with flavor while staying meat-free.
Budget-Friendly: Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor.
Versatile Serving: Perfect with crusty bread, pita, or alongside your favorite Mediterranean dishes.
Healthy Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality feta make it a wholesome choice.
Impress Guests: Elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for weeknights.
Ingredients
Cheese:
1 block (7 oz) feta cheese, drained and patted dry – the star of this Albanian Feta Cheese Casserole.
Vegetables:
1 medium tomato, chopped
1 small green bell pepper, sliced into rings
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Oil:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Garnish:
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Substitutions & Tips:
Use Greek feta if Albanian feta is unavailable.
Add sliced zucchini or eggplant for extra vegetables.
Extra virgin olive oil enhances richness and aroma.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Albanian Baked Feta Recipe
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even baking of the feta and vegetables. Preheating is crucial for a perfectly softened cheese with lightly golden edges.
2. Prepare the Baking Dish
Place the drained block of feta cheese in the center of a small oven-safe skillet or baking dish. Arrange vegetables around the cheese, ensuring they have space to roast and caramelize.
3. Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Scatter chopped tomatoes, bell pepper rings, sliced onions, and minced garlic over and around the feta. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and black pepper. This layering allows the feta to absorb the flavors of the herbs and vegetables.
4. Bake Until Golden
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and the feta has softened with golden edges. For a crispier top, broil for an additional 2–3 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
5. Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with pita, crusty bread, or as a side to your favorite Mediterranean dishes.
Pro Tips for Perfect Albanian Baked Feta
How can I prevent feta from drying out?
Wrap feta loosely with parchment paper before baking or place a small drizzle of olive oil over the top. The cheese retains moisture while forming a golden crust.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the vegetables and feta in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready; you may need an extra 3–5 minutes.
What variations are possible for this recipe?
Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted red peppers for a Mediterranean twist.
Sprinkle with fresh thyme or rosemary instead of oregano for herbal variation.
Turn it into a cheesy Albanian baked feta dish by adding shredded mozzarella or Parmesan for extra creaminess.
Best Ways to Serve Albanian Baked Feta Recipe
Pair with Mediterranean appetizers like roasted vegetables, hummus, or tabbouleh.
Serve alongside Albanian cheese pies or oven-baked pastries for a complete Albanian-style brunch.
Include as part of a cheese platter with fresh fruits and nuts for a festive touch.
Nutrition Information (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 210 kcal
Protein: 8 g
Fat: 18 g (Saturated: 9 g)
Carbohydrates: 6 g (Fiber: 1 g, Sugars: 3 g)
Sodium: 520 mg
Note: Nutrition may vary depending on the brand of feta and quantity of olive oil used.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes to restore softness and flavor.
Freezing: Not recommended as feta may become crumbly after thawing.
FAQs About Albanian Baked Feta Recipe
Q1: Can I use low-fat feta for this recipe?
Yes, but full-fat feta melts better and delivers a creamier texture and richer taste.
Q2: Is this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Serve with gluten-free bread or crackers to keep it gluten-free.
Q3: Can I add meat to this Albanian-style feta bake?
Yes, diced cooked chicken or crumbled bacon can be added for a non-vegetarian version.
Q4: How spicy is this recipe?
Mild, but you can increase the crushed red pepper flakes for more heat.
Variations
Herbed Albanian Feta Bake: Mix thyme, rosemary, or basil for a fragrant variation.
Albanian Feta Pie: Layer baked feta with phyllo dough for a flaky, savory pie.
Cheesy Albanian Baked Feta Dish: Combine with shredded mozzarella or gruyère for extra cheesiness.
Oven-Baked Feta Albanian Style with Vegetables: Add zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms for a veggie-rich meal.
Conclusion
The Albanian Baked Feta Recipe is a simple yet elegant dish that brings Mediterranean warmth to your table. Its creamy, tangy feta, roasted vegetables, and aromatic herbs create an irresistible combination that’s perfect for brunch, appetizers, or even a light dinner. With easy preparation, authentic flavors, and versatile serving options, this recipe is a must-have for any cheese lover.