Bacon-Scallion Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes infused with crispy bacon and fresh scallions, offering a savory, flavorful side perfect for casual dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook potatoes and garlic in a large pot with lightly salted water to cover for 13 to 15 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender.
- While potatoes cook, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy; remove and drain on paper towels.
- In the same skillet, cook sliced scallions until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
- Drain potatoes and garlic, then return to the pot.
- Add warmed low-fat milk and reduced-fat sour cream to the potatoes and mash until smooth.
- Stir in cooked bacon and scallions.
- Season with salt and ground pepper to taste.
- Serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked bacon or substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option. For a creamier texture, consider using half-and-half instead of low-fat milk. This recipe pairs wonderfully with American recipes like Tavern Burgers or Oven Eggs And Bacon.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Bacon-Scallion Mashed Potatoes alongside your favorite protein, such as grilled chicken or pork recipes, for a hearty meal. They also make an excellent side dish for holiday feasts or family gatherings. Consider topping them with additional crispy bacon or scallions for a beautiful presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, and add a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon-Scallion Mashed Potatoes contains roughly 368 calories, with 12g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (39% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 595mg per serving (26% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just reheat them before serving, adding a bit of milk to maintain the creamy texture. This makes them a convenient option for meal prepping or holiday dinners.
What type of potatoes work best for mashing?
All-purpose potatoes, like Yukon Gold or Russet, are ideal for mashing due to their high starch content, resulting in a fluffy texture. Avoid waxy potatoes, as they can lead to a gluey consistency when mashed.
Can I substitute the sour cream?
Absolutely! You can use plain Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative, or even cream cheese for a richer flavor. Both options will maintain the creaminess of the dish while providing a slight tanginess.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).