Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Bacon Recipe

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Mashed sweet potatoes are a delicious and versatile dish that can transform any meal into a comforting feast. Add crispy, smoky bacon to the mix, and you’ve got a recipe that’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Whether you’re preparing a festive holiday spread or simply looking for a creative way to elevate your side dishes, Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Bacon combines sweet, savory, and smoky flavors in one irresistible bowl.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Sweet and Savory Balance: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the salty, smoky goodness of bacon.
2. Comforting and Hearty: Creamy mashed sweet potatoes are elevated with rich, crunchy bacon pieces for an indulgent side dish.
3. Simple and Versatile: Easy to prepare and pairs well with a variety of main courses, from roasted chicken to grilled steak.
4. Perfect for Any Occasion: A crowd-pleaser for holiday feasts, dinner parties, or even weeknight dinners.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Potatoes

1. Peel and Chop:
   • Peel the sweet potatoes and cut them into evenly sized cubes (about 1–2 inches). This ensures even cooking.
2. Boil the Potatoes:
   • Place the sweet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water.
   • Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. Fry the Bacon:
   • Heat a skillet over medium heat. Lay the bacon strips flat in the pan, making sure they don’t overlap.
   • Cook until crispy, about 3–4 minutes per side.
2. Drain and Reserve Grease:
   • Transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels. Reserve 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease for the sweet potatoes.
3. Crumble the Bacon:
   • Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces. Set aside.

Step 3: Mash the Sweet Potatoes

1. Drain and Transfer:
   • Drain the cooked sweet potatoes and return them to the pot.
2. Add Ingredients:
   • Add butter, heavy cream, maple syrup (if using), cinnamon, nutmeg, and the reserved tablespoon of bacon grease to the pot.
3. Mash or Blend:
   • Use a potato masher for a rustic texture or a hand mixer for a smoother consistency. Blend until creamy and well combined.
4. Season to Taste:
   • Add salt and pepper as needed, tasting to adjust the seasoning.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Transfer to Serving Dish:
   • Scoop the mashed sweet potatoes into a serving bowl or dish.
2. Top with Bacon:
   • Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the top.
3. Garnish (Optional):
   • Add chopped green onions or a sprinkle of additional cinnamon for presentation.

Tips for Success

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Look for firm, evenly sized sweet potatoes without blemishes.
2. Don’t Skip the Bacon Grease: Adding a bit of bacon grease enhances the smoky flavor in the mash.
3. Customize the Texture: Adjust the consistency by adding more or less heavy cream, depending on your preference.
4. Make It Ahead: Prepare the sweet potatoes and bacon separately, then assemble just before serving for easy meal prep.

Variations

1. Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan for a creamy, cheesy mash.
2. Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary or thyme for a fragrant, earthy flavor.
3. Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a touch of heat.
4. Sweet Finish: Drizzle with additional maple syrup and top with candied pecans for a dessert-like side dish.

Pairing Suggestions

Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Bacon pairs beautifully with:

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1. Main Courses:
   • Roasted turkey or chicken
   • Glazed ham
   • Grilled steak or pork chops
2. Side Dishes:
   • Garlic green beans
   • Honey-glazed carrots
   • Fresh garden salad
3. Breads:
   • Warm cornbread
   • Flaky biscuits

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked bacon?

Yes, pre-cooked bacon saves time, but fresh-cooked bacon provides more flavor and allows you to use the grease.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Swap butter for plant-based margarine and heavy cream for coconut milk or almond milk.

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What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

For the best texture, reheat in the oven or on the stovetop with a splash of cream.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of creamy sweet potatoes and crispy bacon offers a contrast in texture and flavor that’s both comforting and indulgent. The subtle sweetness of the potatoes balances the smoky saltiness of the bacon, making this dish a versatile addition to any meal.

Conclusion

Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Bacon is a decadent yet simple dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and irresistible aroma, this recipe will quickly become a favorite at your table. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a special gathering, this dish promises to leave everyone asking for seconds.

Prep Time
10 minutes

Cook Time
25 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Mashed Sweet Potatoes
• 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• For the Bacon Topping
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional, for garnish)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Cook the Sweet Potatoes

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the cubed sweet potatoes and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain and set aside.

2. Mash the Sweet Potatoes

1. Return the sweet potatoes to the pot or transfer them to a mixing bowl.
2. Add butter, heavy cream, maple syrup (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or mix with a hand mixer until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

3. Prepare the Bacon Topping

1. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Crumble into small pieces.
2. Optional: Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon grease to drizzle over the mashed potatoes for added flavor.

4. Assemble and Serve

1. Spoon the mashed sweet potatoes into a serving dish.
2. Top with crumbled bacon, green onions, and Parmesan cheese if desired.
3. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

• Make Ahead: Prepare the mashed sweet potatoes and bacon topping separately up to a day in advance. Reheat and assemble before serving.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.

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