One-Pot Pasta with Zucchini Recipe
If you’re looking for a warm, comforting side that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to impress, you have to try these Brie and Cranberry Smashed Potatoes. This dish takes humble baby potatoes and elevates them with crispy edges, creamy melted Brie, and the bright, sweet zing of cranberry sauce. It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes that comes together in a way that feels both cozy and festive. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become your new go-to for family dinners or holiday gatherings!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients each play a starring role to create the perfect Brie and Cranberry Smashed Potatoes. From the tender baby potatoes that form the crispy base to the rich Brie that melts beautifully on top, and the cranberry sauce that adds a burst of tart-sweet flavor, every bite sings.
- Baby potatoes, 750 g (1.65 lb): Choose small, uniform potatoes for even cooking and the best smashing results.
- Olive oil, 3 tablespoons: Adds a rich layer of flavor and helps create that irresistible golden crispiness.
- Garlic, 2 cloves minced: Provides aromatic depth and a subtle kick of savoriness.
- Fresh rosemary, 1 tablespoon finely chopped: Elevates the dish with a fragrant, piney note that pairs perfectly with potatoes and cheese.
- Salt to taste: Essential for enhancing every element’s natural flavor.
- Brie cheese, 200 g (7 oz) sliced: This creamy cheese melts into luscious pockets atop each potato for indulgence in every bite.
- Cranberry sauce, 120 g (1/2 cup): Whether homemade or store-bought, it adds a vibrant, tangy contrast that’s simply irresistible.
- Fresh rosemary leaves for garnish: Adds a pretty finishing touch and a burst of fragrance to the dish.
How to Make Brie and Cranberry Smashed Potatoes
Step 1: Parboil the potatoes
Start by washing your baby potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt, then place them in a large pot covered with cold salted water. Bring this to a boil and let the potatoes cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. This step softens the potatoes so they can be smashed easily without falling apart.
Step 2: Smash the potatoes
Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. On a baking tray lined with parchment paper, gently smash each potato using a measuring cup or a sturdy flat-bottom glass. The key here is to flatten them just enough so they get crispy around the edges when baked, but still hold their shape.
Step 3: Prepare the olive oil mixture
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and a pinch of salt. This fragrant mixture will infuse every smashed potato with mouthwatering flavor and help crisp up the edges beautifully during roasting.
Step 4: Coat and bake the potatoes
Brush each smashed potato generously with the olive oil mixture, making sure they are all well-coated. Place the tray in a 425°F (220°C) preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes until the potatoes are golden and irresistibly crispy.
Step 5: Add Brie and finish baking
Once crispy, remove the potatoes from the oven and top each with a slice of Brie cheese. Return the tray to the oven for just 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the Brie to melt into silky, gooey perfection.
Step 6: Add cranberry sauce and garnish
Carefully transfer the Brie and Cranberry Smashed Potatoes to a serving dish. Spoon a teaspoon of cranberry sauce onto each potato and finish with fresh rosemary leaves for a pop of color and aroma. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor experience.
How to Serve Brie and Cranberry Smashed Potatoes
Garnishes
Fresh rosemary leaves add a lovely herbal contrast and a burst of color, making the dish feel fresh and inviting. You might also sprinkle a little flaky sea salt or cracked black pepper on top to enhance the flavors even further.
Side Dishes
These Brie and Cranberry Smashed Potatoes pair wonderfully with roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or pork, especially during festive meals. They also complement a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a lighter yet satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, try serving the smashed potatoes on a large wooden board, garnished with rosemary sprigs and small bowls of extra cranberry sauce for dipping. Alternatively, assemble them as appetizers on a platter for guests to grab easily at your next party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The potatoes may lose some of their crispiness, but the flavors will remain delicious.
Freezing
Because of the soft Brie and cranberry sauce, this dish is best enjoyed fresh. Freezing is not recommended as it can affect the texture of the cheese and potatoes.
Reheating
To reheat, place the leftover smashed potatoes on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps revive some of their original crispiness without overcooking the Brie.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Brie is ideal for its creamy melt and mild flavor, you can experiment with Camembert or a mild goat cheese for a slightly different twist. Just be sure the cheese melts well.
Is it possible to make the cranberry sauce from scratch?
Absolutely! Homemade cranberry sauce made with fresh cranberries, sugar, and a splash of orange juice will taste fantastic and add a lovely fresh dimension to the dish.
What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?
Dried rosemary can be used in a pinch, but fresh rosemary offers a stronger, more vibrant flavor. If you must use dried, reduce the quantity slightly and sprinkle it in during the olive oil mixing step.
Can I make these potatoes vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap the Brie for a plant-based cheese that melts well and replace the olive oil mixture with a vegan garlic herb oil. Feel free to skip or substitute the cranberry sauce depending on your preferences.
How crispy do the potatoes get?
Thanks to parboiling followed by smashing and roasting at a high temperature, the edges get delightfully crisp while the inside remains soft and fluffy. They strike the perfect balance every time!
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you give these Brie and Cranberry Smashed Potatoes a try soon. They are the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles, thanks to their rich flavors and irresistible textures. Whether for a special occasion or a simple dinner upgrade, these smashed potatoes will become a cherished favorite in your kitchen just like they have in mine.
