Hot Cranberry Roast Potatoes

When it comes to Christmas sides, roasties reign supreme—but why not turn up the festive flair with a spicy, sweet, and herby twist? Enter my Spicy Cranberry Roasties. These golden, crispy potatoes are coated in a mix of silk chili flakes, tangy cranberry sauce, and a fragrant medley of garlic, thyme, rosemary, and sage. They’re the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and holiday herbiness. Plus, can a recipe be classed as festive if it doesn’t include cranberry sauce, it’s the rule.

Forget hot honey, this is the festive twist you’ve been waiting for and OMG THEY ARE STUNNING. This is the gift I’ve been waiting for and I’ve “tested” so many batches already.

The TASTE

Let’s talk about these flavors. The cranberry sauce adds a sticky, caramelized glaze to the roasties, giving them a subtle sweetness that screams Christmas. Pair that with the gentle kick of silk chili flakes (not too hot, but just enough to keep things interesting), and you’ve got a combination that’s as bold as it is festive. Throw in the warmth of garlic and the earthy notes of rosemary, thyme, and sage, and you’re left with roast potatoes that taste like the holidays in every bite.

These roasties are not only delicious but also ridiculously versatile. Serve them alongside your roast turkey, glazed ham, or even a nut roast for the ultimate festive feast. They also work brilliantly as part of a Boxing Day buffet, piled high with other leftovers or eaten straight from the tray while you sip on a cheeky glass of mulled wine. And for all the foodies who love a late-night snack, these babies are next-level when reheated (or eaten cold, let’s be honest).

The TEXTURE

Now, let’s not forget the texture. The crispy, golden crust on the outside—achieved through proper steam drying and a hot roasting tin—is the perfect contrast to their fluffy, pillowy centers. The cranberry glaze caramelizes in the oven, creating little sticky, crispy edges that are absolutely irresistible. And because of the herb and chili coating, every bite is packed with flavor.

The UPGRADE

Feeling fancy? You can elevate these roasties even further. Add a sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan right before serving for an extra layer of indulgence. Or, for a pop of festive color, toss in some fresh pomegranate seeds or a handful of chopped parsley just before they hit the table. You could even drizzle a little balsamic reduction for that sweet and tangy contrast—because why not?

Not only are these Spicy Cranberry Roasties the perfect side dish, but they’re also an excellent conversation starter. They’re unexpected yet comforting, taking a classic and giving it a festive glow-up that’ll have your guests asking for the recipe before they’ve even finished their plate. Plus, they’re easy to make—no complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients, just simple steps that let the flavours shine.

So, whether you’re planning a big Christmas dinner, a cozy gathering with friends, or just want to treat yourself to something a little special this holiday season, these roasties have got you covered. Trust me, once you’ve tried them, you’ll never settle for plain roast potatoes again. Potatoes, spice, and everything nice—it doesn’t get more festive than this.

For more recipes from my “24 days of Christmas potatoes” series, pop over to my Instagram page to see videos of all my festive recipes in action.

FOUR YEARS in the making, and it’s finally happening—the POTATO BOOK is here! Don’t miss out—click here to pre-order your copy now! 🥔🎉