Bacon Chive Mashed Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Bacon Chive Mashed Potatoes are not just a side dish; they are a celebration of flavor and comfort that can elevate any meal. Imagine creamy, buttery mashed potatoes infused with the smoky richness of crispy bacon and the fresh zing of chives. This delightful combination has roots in traditional comfort food, but it has been given a modern twist that makes it irresistible. I love how the crispy bits of bacon add a satisfying crunch, while the chives provide a burst of color and freshness. It’s no wonder that Bacon Chive Mashed Potatoes have become a favorite at family gatherings and dinner parties alike. They are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making them a go-to recipe for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Join me as we dive into this mouthwatering dish that promises to bring joy to your table!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of russet potatoes
• 1/2 cup of unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup of whole milk
• 1/2 cup of sour cream
• 1 cup of cooked bacon, chopped
• 1/4 cup of fresh chives, chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste

Preparing the Potatoes

1. Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold running water. I like to scrub them gently with a vegetable brush to remove any dirt or debris. 2. Once clean, peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler. If you prefer a more rustic texture, you can leave the skins on, but I find that peeling them gives a creamier finish. 3. Cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks, about 1 to 2 inches. This ensures they cook evenly and makes mashing easier later on. 4. Place the cut potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Make sure the water level is about an inch above the potatoes. This helps them cook evenly and prevents them from becoming waterlogged. 5. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. This will season the potatoes as they cook. 6. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. You can test this by inserting a fork into a potato chunk; it should slide in easily.

Draining and Mashing the Potatoes

7. Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully drain them in a colander. Allow them to sit for a minute to let any excess steam escape. This step is crucial as it helps to avoid watery mashed potatoes. 8. Return the drained potatoes to the pot. This is where the magic happens! 9. Add the unsalted butter to the hot potatoes. The heat from the potatoes will melt the butter, creating a rich and creamy base. 10. Pour in the whole milk and add the sour cream. I love using sour cream because it adds a delightful tanginess to the mash. 11. Using a potato masher, start mashing the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency. I prefer mine to be smooth but with a few lumps for texture. If you like them creamier, you can use a hand mixer or a food processor, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make them gummy.

Incorporating Bacon and Chives

12. Once the potatoes are mashed to your liking, it’s time to fold in the star ingredients: the chopped bacon and fresh chives. 13. Gently stir in the cooked bacon, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the potatoes. The crispy bits of bacon add a wonderful crunch and flavor. 14. Next, add the chopped chives. I love the fresh, oniony flavor they bring to the dish. Stir until everything is well combined. 15. Taste the mashed potatoes and season with salt and black pepper to your preference. Remember, the bacon can be salty, so adjust accordingly.

Serving the Bacon Chive Mashed Potatoes

16. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving bowl. I like to use a large, shallow bowl for presentation. 17. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some additional chopped chives and crumbled bacon on top. This not only looks beautiful but also gives a hint of what’s inside. 18. If you want to keep the mashed potatoes warm before serving, cover the bowl with aluminum foil or place it in a warm oven (set to low heat) until you’re ready to serve.

Tips for Perfect Bacon Chive Mashed Potatoes

19. Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes are my go-to for mashed potatoes because they are starchy and yield a fluffy texture. Yukon Golds are also a great option if you prefer a creamier mash. 20. Don’t skip the soaking: Soaking the potatoes in cold water for about 30 minutes before cooking can help remove excess starch, resulting in a fluffier mash. 21. Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other ingredients like garlic, cream cheese, or even a sprinkle of cheese for a different twist. The possibilities are endless! 22. Make it ahead: You can prepare the mashed potatoes a day in advance. Just reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if they seem too thick. Enjoy your delicious Bacon Chive Mashed Potatoes! They make a

Conclusion:

In summary, these Bacon Chive Mashed Potatoes are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their side dish game. The creamy texture combined with the savory crunch of bacon and the fresh zing of chives creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re serving them alongside a juicy steak, roasted chicken, or even a vegetarian main dish, these mashed potatoes are sure to steal the show at your dinner table. Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can swap out the chives for green onions or even add a sprinkle of cheese for an extra layer of richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, try incorporating roasted garlic for a deeper flavor profile or even a dash of sour cream for added creaminess. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to make this dish your own. I can’t wait for you to try these Bacon Chive Mashed Potatoes! Once you do, I would love to hear about your experience. Did you make any fun variations? How did your family and friends react? Share your thoughts and photos with me, and let’s celebrate the joy of cooking together. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household, and you’ll find yourself making it time and time again. Happy cooking! Print