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Creamy Loaded Mashed Potatoes with Bacon

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A rich and creamy mashed potato recipe loaded with crispy bacon, cream cheese, and sour cream for ultimate comfort food. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream, full-fat preferred
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole or 2% milk, warmed
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Optional: Freshly chopped chives

Instructions

  1. Peel and cut 3 pounds of Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes into roughly 2-inch chunks.
  2. Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water by about an inch. Add 1 teaspoon salt to the water.
  3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
  4. While potatoes cook, crisp up 8 slices of thick-cut bacon in a skillet over medium heat (about 7-10 minutes). Drain on paper towels and chop into bite-sized pieces. Reserve some bacon fat if desired.
  5. Drain potatoes well in a colander and return them to the hot pot. Place the pot back on low heat for 1-2 minutes to evaporate excess moisture.
  6. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or ricer until mostly smooth.
  7. Stir in softened butter, cream cheese, and sour cream.
  8. Gradually add warm milk, stirring until desired creamy consistency is reached.
  9. Fold in minced garlic if using, then season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
  10. Gently fold in chopped bacon and sliced green onions, reserving some for garnish.
  11. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle remaining bacon and green onions on top.
  12. Optional: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese right after mashing for a cheesy twist.

Notes

Do not overboil potatoes to avoid gluey texture. Dry potatoes well after draining to prevent watery mash. Use warm milk for smoother consistency. Avoid overmixing to keep mash fluffy. Crisp bacon separately for best texture. Reserve some bacon fat to drizzle on top for extra flavor. Add cheddar cheese after mashing for a cheesy variation. Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version. Use smoked turkey bacon for a leaner option. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potatoes, loaded mashed potatoes, bacon mashed potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, comfort food, easy side dish

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/creamy-loaded-mashed-potatoes-with-bacon-recipe-easy-comfort-food/