Roasted Hasselback Sweet Potatoes With Bacon Maple Brown Butter
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Elevate your side dish game with these Roasted Hasselback Sweet Potatoes, drizzled with rich bacon maple brown butter. The unique Hasselback cut allows for crispy edges while maintaining a tender interior, making each bite a deliciously savory experience. Perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners, this recipe combines the flavors of sweet potatoes, crispy bacon, and the irresistible sweetness of maple for a dish that’s both elegant and comforting.
This dish brings together the wonderful flavors of sweet potatoes, bacon, and maple, creating a delightful balance of savory and sweet.
The Joy of Hasselback Cooking
Hasselback cooking transforms your ordinary sweet potatoes into a visually striking dish that impresses everyone at the table. The technique, which originated from Sweden, not only elevates the presentation but also maximizes flavor absorption. This method creates small pockets that can hold toppings or sauces, ensuring that every bite is infused with deliciousness. Plus, the crispy edges are a delightful contrast to the soft, sweet interior, making them an exciting dish for all ages.
Whether you are new to cooking or a seasoned chef, the Hasselback style offers an innovative way to enjoy sweet potatoes. It encourages creativity in the kitchen, inviting you to experiment with flavors and toppings. Imagine adding cheese, fresh herbs, or spices—this technique is versatile and allows for endless variations. Plus, the aroma that fills your home as they roast is bound to make your mouth water!
Bacon Maple Brown Butter Bliss
The combination of bacon, maple syrup, and brown butter is a match made in culinary heaven. As the butter browns in the skillet, it develops nutty undertones that perfectly complement the sweetness of the maple syrup. This dynamic duo enriches the sweet potatoes, infusing them with deep, savory flavors that elevate them above typical side dishes. Adding crumbled bacon provides a satisfying crunch and a smoky element, ensuring this dish is as indulgent as it is comforting.
Drizzling this bacon maple brown butter over the potatoes not only enhances their natural sweetness but also adds a rich, umami twist that will have your guests asking for seconds. The layered flavors create a perfect harmony, making each bite an experience. Whether served at a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, this dish is destined to become a favorite.
Perfect Pairings for Your Sweet Potatoes
Ingredients
For the Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 4 slices of bacon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Make sure to choose sweet potatoes that are uniform in size for even cooking.
Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and dry the sweet potatoes. Using a sharp knife, make thin slices across the top of each sweet potato, being careful not to cut all the way through.
Cook the Bacon
In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and crumble. Reserve the bacon fat in the skillet.
Make the Maple Brown Butter
In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the unsalted butter and cook over medium heat until it starts to brown. Stir in the maple syrup and crumbled bacon.
Roast the Sweet Potatoes
Arrange the prepared sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and brush with the bacon maple brown butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes, basting occasionally until the edges are crispy and the insides are tender.
Garnish and Serve
Once cooked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful side dish!
This dish pairs well with roasted meats or as a stand-alone vegetarian option.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers of these delicious roasted sweet potatoes, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at a low temperature to retain their crispy edges. Alternatively, the microwave will work in a pinch, though it may result in slightly softer potatoes. If you prefer, toss them back in a skillet with a bit of additional butter to reignite that crispy texture!
These sweet potatoes also freeze well. After cooking, allow them to cool completely before freezing them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven.
Making it Your Own
One of the best aspects of this recipe is how easily it can be customized. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne can add a delightful kick. You could also swap the bacon for a plant-based alternative or use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter version. The richness of the dish can be adjusted based on your dietary needs or personal preferences.
Don’t shy away from topping the sweet potatoes with your favorite ingredients after baking—feta cheese, green onions, or a drizzle of sriracha can bring an extra layer of flavor. Tailoring this recipe to your liking not only makes it unique but also allows you to enjoy it over and over again.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use regular potatoes, but the flavor will differ.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Roasted Hasselback Sweet Potatoes With Bacon Maple Brown Butter
Elevate your side dish game with these Roasted Hasselback Sweet Potatoes, drizzled with rich bacon maple brown butter. The unique Hasselback cut allows for crispy edges while maintaining a tender interior, making each bite a deliciously savory experience. Perfect for holiday gatherings or weeknight dinners, this recipe combines the flavors of sweet potatoes, crispy bacon, and the irresistible sweetness of maple for a dish that’s both elegant and comforting.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: Serves 4
What You'll Need
For the Sweet Potatoes
- 4 medium sweet potatoes
- 4 slices of bacon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Wash and dry the sweet potatoes. Using a sharp knife, make thin slices across the top of each sweet potato, being careful not to cut all the way through. This is the Hasselback cut.
In a skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and crumble. Reserve the bacon fat in the skillet.
In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the unsalted butter and cook over medium heat until it starts to brown. Stir in the maple syrup and crumbled bacon.
Arrange the prepared sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and brush with the bacon maple brown butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes, basting occasionally until the edges are crispy and the insides are tender.
Once cooked, remove from the oven and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your delightful side dish!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 4g