Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our "Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Bacon and Gorgonzola" recipe! Imagine fluffy, buttery potatoes infused with the rich flavors of Gorgonzola cheese and the irresistible crunch of crispy bacon. This dish is not just a side; it's a culinary experience that will elevate any meal and leave your guests begging for seconds. Whether you're hosting a cozy dinner or simply treating yourself, these creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect companion to any main dish. Ready to discover how to make this mouthwatering delight? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Begin by washing, peeling, and cutting potatoes into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Place potato cubes in a large pot and cover completely with cold, salted water. The salt will help season the potatoes from within during cooking.
- Bring the potato pot to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-high and cook for approximately 15-18 minutes until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- While potatoes are cooking, prepare bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp and golden brown. Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces.
- Once potatoes are fully cooked, drain thoroughly in a colander, then return to the hot pot to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
- Add butter and heavy cream to the potatoes. Use a potato masher or rigged potato ricer to create a smooth, creamy texture.
- Fold in crumbled Gorgonzola cheese, allowing it to melt slightly into the warm potatoes.
- Gently mix in the crispy bacon pieces, reserving some for garnish.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting seasoning as needed.
- Transfer to a serving dish, sprinkle remaining bacon crumbles on top, and serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: For the creamiest mashed potatoes, opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. They mash beautifully and create a smooth texture.
- Salt the Water: When boiling your potatoes, don't skip the salt in the water. It enhances the flavor of the potatoes from the inside out.
- Dry Your Potatoes: After draining the cooked potatoes, return them to the hot pot for a minute or two. This allows excess moisture to evaporate, ensuring your mashed potatoes are not watery.
- Warm Your Cream and Butter: For an even creamier consistency, warm the heavy cream and butter before mixing them into the potatoes. This helps them blend seamlessly.
- Customize Your Cheese: While Gorgonzola adds a unique flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or blue cheese for a different twist.
- Crisp the Bacon: Cook the bacon until it's perfectly crispy. This not only adds great texture but also prevents it from becoming chewy when mixed into the potatoes.
- Serve Immediately: Mashed potatoes are best served hot and fresh. If you need to keep them warm, place them in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t forget to sprinkle some reserved bacon crumbles on top before serving. It adds a beautiful touch and hints at the deliciousness within!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 75mg
