bacon mashed potatoes recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best bacon mashed potatoes recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite bacon mashed potatoes recipe! This dish has been a staple in my household for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends.

I love how the crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor to the creamy mashed potatoes, and the best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make. The key to this recipe is using high-quality ingredients, like fresh potatoes and real bacon, which makes all the difference in the flavor and texture.

My kids absolutely love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is one of their favorites because they get to be involved in the fun process of mashing the potatoes and adding the crispy bacon on top. We often make this dish for special occasions, like holidays or family gatherings, but it’s also a regular part of our weekly dinner routine.

I’ve found that using a combination of Russet and Yukon Gold potatoes gives the best result, as they hold their shape well but still yield to a fluffy interior when mashed. The addition of grated cheddar cheese adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the bacon perfectly.

When I’m feeling fancy, I like to garnish the dish with chopped scallions or chives for an extra pop of color and freshness. Overall, this recipe is a classic comfort food that never fails to impress.

Bacon Mashed Potatoes

4.7 from 1986 votes

Creamy mashed potatoes are elevated with crispy bacon bits and a touch of bacon fat for a savory, indulgent side dish. This recipe combines fluffy russet potatoes with rich butter and milk, then finishes with smoky bacon crumbles.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
1/2 cup whole milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Bacon

6 slices bacon

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water by 1 inch.
2Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and easily pierced with a knife.
3While the potatoes cook, place the bacon slices in a cold skillet.
4Cook over medium heat for 6 to 8 minutes, turning once, until the bacon is crispy and browned.
5Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble into small pieces once cool.
6Drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pot.
7Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper, then mash with a potato masher until smooth and creamy.
8Stir in half of the crumbled bacon, reserving the rest for garnish.
9Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl and top with the remaining bacon crumbles.
10Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Potato masher or ricer
Skillet
Paper towels
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 9g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 720mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 10g

📝Notes

For extra flavor, reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings and stir it into the mashed potatoes along with the butter. You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture without needing to peel them.

Watch Video Of How Bacon Mashed Potatoes Works

One thing that sets this recipe apart from others is its incredible versatility – whether we’re having a casual family dinner or hosting a big gathering, these mashed potatoes always bring everyone together!

Because they freeze beautifully after being cooled completely (wrap tightly in plastic wrap before freezing), you can easily make them ahead for future meals without worrying about spoilage.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Mashed Potatoes

1.

What kind of potatoes should I use?

For this recipe, you’ll want to use high-quality potatoes like Russet or Yukon Golds – they hold their shape well but still yield to a fluffy interior when mashed.

2.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon?

While pre-cooked bacon can save you some time in terms of prep work, it won’t give you quite the same smoky flavor as using real bacon.

3.

How do I mash my potatoes without lumps?

The key here is to use high-quality potatoes that are cooked until tender before mashing – then just mash them gently until smooth.

4.

What if I don’t have any cheddar cheese on hand?

You can omit it if you don’t have any cheddar on hand – but trust me when I say it makes all the difference!

5.

Can I make this recipe ahead?

While you can prep your ingredients ahead if needed (just store them separately until assembly), assembling everything together right before baking will ensure optimal results.

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