If you are searching for a comforting side dish that dazzles with both flavor and texture, the Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Bacon and Chives Recipe is destined to become your new favorite. This dish brings together the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the smoky crunch of bacon and the fresh zest of chives, all swirled into a silky, buttery mash. It’s a perfect balance of creamy richness and bright, savory notes that will elevate any meal, from simple weeknight dinners to festive holiday feasts.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients are the secret to a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and full of character. Each component adds a unique touch — from the earthy sweetness of the sweet potatoes to the crispy bacon bits that provide that irresistible savory contrast.
- Yukon potatoes (2 lbs or 7 medium, peeled): These add creaminess and a smooth texture that balances the sweet potatoes perfectly.
- Sweet potatoes (1 lb or 2 medium, peeled): Bring natural sweetness and vibrant color to the mash.
- Small onion (peeled and halved): Adds subtle depth of flavor during the cooking process.
- Bay leaves (2): Infuse a gentle aromatic layer to the potatoes as they cook.
- Garlic cloves (3): Introduce a mellow garlicky note without overpowering.
- Sea salt (1/2 Tbsp): Enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes.
- Unsalted butter (4 Tbsp, melted and hot): Provides luscious richness and a velvety finish.
- Sour cream (3 Tbsp): Adds tang and creaminess for a smooth texture.
- Bacon (4 oz, chopped): Brings crunchy, smoky goodness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy mash.
- Chives (1 Tbsp, chopped): For a fresh, vibrant garnish that brightens the entire dish.
How to Make Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Bacon and Chives Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Simmer the Potatoes
Begin by peeling and dicing both Yukon and sweet potatoes into half-inch cubes. Putting them into a large pot along with the halved onion, bay leaves, and whole garlic cloves creates a wonderful flavor base. Cover with water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. This gentle simmer allows the potatoes to soak up subtle aromatic notes, setting the stage for that unforgettable creamy mash.
Step 2: Cook and Drain for Perfect Texture
Once the water is boiling, sprinkle in the sea salt for seasoning, then reduce the heat to medium-low and partially cover the pot. Let the potatoes cook for 10 to 12 minutes, or until they’re easily pierced by a knife. The onion, garlic, and bay leaves will have done their job by now, so remove and discard them before draining the potatoes thoroughly. This ensures your mash will be smooth and not watery.
Step 3: Mash and Enrich the Potatoes
With the warm potatoes ready, mash them until the color is uniform—a beautiful mix of golden Yukon and orange sweet potato hues. Stir in the hot melted butter to add richness, then fold in the sour cream to inject that tangy creaminess. For the silkiest results, feel free to use a potato ricer or hand mixer if you want an extra smooth consistency. This step is where the magic of the Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Bacon and Chives Recipe truly happens.
Step 4: Crisp Bacon Topping and Final Garnish
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chopped bacon until it’s wonderfully crisp and golden brown. The crackling aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water! Remove the bacon from heat, then sprinkle the crispy pieces generously over your mashed potatoes. Finish with a scattering of fresh, chopped chives for a pop of color and a hint of freshness that elevates each bite.
How to Serve Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Bacon and Chives Recipe
Garnishes
Besides the crisp bacon and fresh chives, you can add a dusting of smoked paprika or a drizzle of extra melted butter to make this dish even more inviting. A small handful of toasted pecans or a few sprigs of thyme can add interesting textures and layers of flavor that complement the creamy mash perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with roasted or grilled meats like turkey, chicken, or pork. It’s a fantastic upgrade alongside your usual green beans, sautéed spinach, or even a bright, crunchy salad. The smoky richness from the bacon and the creaminess of the mash make it versatile enough to fit any meal plan, from casual dinners to holiday spreads.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the creamy mashed sweet potatoes in an elegant bowl with the bacon and chives sprinkled on top, allowing guests to grab spoonfuls easily. For a more rustic touch, layer the mash in a shallow casserole dish and sprinkle bacon and chives as a finishing flourish. You can also pipe the mash onto plates using a large star tip for a fancy presentation that still feels cozy and comforting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover mashed sweet potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before sealing to maintain freshness. The bacon topping may soften after storage, but the flavors will only deepen.
Freezing
You can freeze this mash for up to 2 months by placing it in a freezer-safe container. Keep the bacon separate and add it fresh after reheating for the best texture. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for even reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to redistribute the heat evenly. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture if the mash feels too thick after cooling. Top once again with crisp bacon and fresh chives for that fresh finish.
FAQs
Can I use only sweet potatoes instead of mixing with Yukon potatoes?
Absolutely! Using only sweet potatoes will give you a sweeter, more vibrant mash. Mixing in Yukon potatoes adds some creaminess and balances the sweetness, but it’s totally up to your taste preference.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Bacon and Chives Recipe?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and consider sautéing mushrooms or adding toasted nuts for a savory crunch. You could also use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic that smoky flavor.
How can I make this dish ahead for a party?
Prepare everything through Step 3, then cool and refrigerate. Before serving, bring back to room temperature and reheat gently, then add freshly cooked bacon and chives just before serving to keep those textures crisp and fresh.
Can I substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute if you want a tangy flavor with less fat. It also adds protein and a creamy texture that works beautifully here.
What is the best type of bacon to use?
Thick-cut smoked bacon works best because it crisps up nicely and adds a robust smoky flavor that complements the sweet potatoes perfectly.
Final Thoughts
There is something so heartwarming about a bowl of creamy mashed potatoes, especially when they come dressed with crispy bacon and fresh chives. This Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Bacon and Chives Recipe strikes the perfect chord between comfort and elegance, making it a dish you’ll want to reach for again and again. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a staple on your table and a favorite in your recipe collection. So grab those sweet potatoes and get ready for some seriously delicious magic!
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Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Bacon and Chives Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Mashed Sweet Potatoes Recipe combines creamy Yukon and sweet potatoes with aromatic garlic, onion, and bay leaves for a flavorful side dish. Topped with crispy bacon and fresh chives, this comforting dish is perfect for any meal and serves 8 generously.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Aromatics
- 2 lbs Yukon potatoes (7 medium), peeled and diced into 1/2″ cubes
- 1 lb sweet potatoes (2 medium), peeled and diced into 1/2″ cubes
- 1 small onion, peeled and halved
- 2 bay leaves
- 3 garlic cloves, peeled
- 1/2 Tbsp sea salt
Mix-Ins and Toppings
- 4 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted and hot
- 3 Tbsp sour cream
- 4 oz bacon, chopped
- 1 Tbsp chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel and dice the Yukon and sweet potatoes into 1/2″ cubes. Place them in a large pot along with the halved onion, bay leaves, and garlic cloves. Add enough water to cover the potatoes completely, then set the pot over medium-high heat.
- Cook the potatoes: Once the water starts boiling, add 1/2 tablespoon of sea salt. Reduce the heat to medium-low, partially cover the pot, and cook for 10-12 minutes until the potatoes are easily pierced with a knife. Remove and discard the onion, garlic, and bay leaves, then drain the potatoes thoroughly.
- Mash the potatoes: Mash the potatoes until smooth and uniform in color. Stir in the hot melted butter for richness. Add 2 heaping tablespoons of sour cream and continue mashing until the mixture is creamy and smooth. For an ultra-smooth texture, use a potato ricer or hand mixer if desired.
- Cook the bacon and serve: In a medium sauté pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until golden brown and crisp. Remove from heat and drain excess fat if needed. Sprinkle the crispy bacon over the mashed potatoes and garnish with chopped chives before serving.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter and sour cream with plant-based alternatives.
- You can prepare the potatoes a day ahead and reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess.
- To make this recipe vegetarian, omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions as toppings.
- Ensure to peel the sweet potatoes thoroughly to avoid any tough skin in the mash.
- The addition of bay leaves, garlic, and onion while boiling enhances the flavor but is removed before mashing for a smooth texture.
