Irresistible Bacon and Cheddar Mashed Potatoes Recipe You Need to Try

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a bowl of creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes, but when you add crispy bacon and sharp cheddar into the mix, it transforms into a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes have long been a favorite in my family, especially during those cozy Monterey evenings when the fog rolls in and my daughters, Olivia and Isabella, gather around the kitchen island, eagerly waiting for a taste. This recipe is more than just a side—it’s a celebration of family, heritage, and the kind of food that brings everyone together.

Why You’ll Love This Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes

Growing up in the heart of Monterey, my earliest kitchen memories revolve around my Nonna Rosa’s rustic table, where simple ingredients turned into soul-soothing meals. This Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes recipe is a nod to those traditions, combining the richness of creamy potatoes with the smoky crunch of bacon and the sharp tang of cheddar. What makes this dish special is its ability to satisfy both the kid in you and the gourmet at heart.

Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, these mashed potatoes are quick to make but feel indulgent and thoughtful. The crispy bacon adds a lovely texture contrast, while the cheddar cheese melts into every bite, creating layers of flavor that remind me of the hearty meals my mother Elena used to whip up with whatever was fresh from the garden. It’s the kind of recipe that gets better every time you make it, and I promise, your family will ask for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes

• 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)

Substitution tips: If you prefer a lighter version, substitute turkey bacon for traditional bacon. For a dairy-free option, use olive oil in place of butter and coconut or almond milk instead of dairy milk. You can also swap cheddar for a sharp white cheddar or even a smoked gouda for a twist.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving (based on 6 servings)
• Protein: 12g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg

Print

Steps to Create Your Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes

1. Place the peeled and chopped Yukon Gold potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. While the potatoes cook, crisp the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crunchy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool. Once cool, crumble into bite-sized pieces.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to low and add the minced garlic to the bacon drippings. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes until smooth but still a little rustic for texture.
5. Stir in the butter, warmed milk, sautéed garlic with bacon fat, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently until everything is creamy and well combined. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Fold in the crumbled bacon, reserving a little to sprinkle on top for presentation.
7. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish, sprinkle with the remaining cheddar and bacon pieces, and garnish with chopped fresh chives if using. Serve warm and watch your family smile!

“I remember one chilly winter evening when Olivia insisted on stirring the potatoes, flour all over her cheeks, while Isabella eagerly tasted the melted cheddar. It’s moments like those that make this recipe more than just food—it’s family in a bowl.”

Tips for Making the Best Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes

One of the lessons I learned early from Nonna Rosa was to never rush the potatoes. Patience is key here. Starting your potatoes in cold water ensures even cooking and prevents the outside from becoming mushy before the inside cooks through. Always use Yukon Gold or russet potatoes for the best creamy texture.

When it comes to bacon, thick-cut is my preference—it holds up beautifully and adds that satisfying crunch. Cooking the bacon slowly over medium heat allows the fat to render out perfectly, which you can then use to sauté garlic and add even more flavor to your mash. Learn more: Sweet and Savory Delight: Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes

Don’t shy away from adjusting the milk or cream quantity. I always add a splash at a time until I get that velvety consistency I love. And if you’re feeling extra indulgent, a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese folded in will take these mashed potatoes to a new level of comfort food bliss.

Finally, mixing in fresh herbs like chives or parsley adds a lovely pop of color and freshness that balances the richness. Watching my mother Elena toss fresh herbs from our garden into her dishes always reminded me how a little green can brighten any plate.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes are the perfect companion to so many dishes. They shine alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a simple pan-seared salmon. During the holidays, I love serving them with a classic herb-roasted turkey and a side of sautéed green beans with almonds, a nod to the feasts Nonna Rosa used to prepare.

For a cozy weeknight meal, pair these mashed potatoes with sautéed garlic spinach and a crisp Caesar salad for a well-rounded plate. If you want to elevate the experience, a glass of medium-bodied red wine, like a Chianti or Merlot, brings out the smoky notes in the bacon beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes reheat wonderfully, making them a great make-ahead side. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, place the mashed potatoes in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the texture and keep them creamy. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

If you want to refresh the crispy bacon topping, sprinkle on some fresh crumbles after reheating. I often reheat the potatoes with a little butter and garlic to bring back that freshly made flavor, and my daughters never complain about leftovers!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes?

The main ingredients for Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes?

The total time to make Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes?

Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

What I love most about this Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes recipe is how it captures the spirit of my Monterey kitchen—the blending of simple, honest ingredients with a touch of love and history. It’s a dish that invites everyone to the table, encouraging laughter, stories, and the sharing of cherished moments.

Cooking with my daughters, Olivia and Isabella, I see how food becomes a language of connection, much like it was for my mother Elena and Nonna Rosa before her. This recipe is a way to pass down those traditions, the warmth of family, and the joy of comfort food that feels like home.

I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing these Bacon & Cheddar Mashed Potatoes as I do. May every creamy, cheesy, crispy bite remind you of the simple pleasures that good food and good company bring to our lives.