Potato mash with bacon and caramelised onion

This creamy potato mash combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and sweet caramelised onions for a comforting dish. Perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying snack, it’s easy to prepare and sure to please.

29 Nov 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 10 min

Ingredients:

4 potatoes
1/4 cup butter
1/3 cup milk (1% fat)
1 cup cheddar cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
2 bacon strips
2 onions
2 garlic cloves
1/3 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp fresh parsley
Potato mash with bacon and caramelised onion

Potato cheesy mash with bacon and caramelised onion is the ultimate comfort food, combining the creamy richness of mashed potatoes with the savory flavors of cheese and crispy bacon, all topped off with sweet and tangy caramelized onions. Whether you're preparing a hearty side dish for a family dinner or treating yourself to a decadent snack, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel the potatoes and cut them into large chunks.
- Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
2. Mash the Potatoes:
- Add the butter and milk to the potatoes.
- Mash until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and combined. Set aside and keep warm.
3. Cook the Bacon:
- While the potatoes are boiling, heat a large frying pan over medium heat.
- Add the bacon strips and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool.
- Once cool, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
4. Caramelise the Onions:
- In the same frying pan, add the olive oil and heat over medium heat.
- Add the thinly sliced onions and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and turn golden brown.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the brown sugar and vinegar, and continue to cook for another 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelised and sticky.
5. Assemble the Dish:
- Gently fold the crumbled bacon and caramelised onions into the mashed potatoes.
- Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl or dish.
6. Garnish:
- Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the top as a garnish.
7. Serve:
- Serve immediately as a sumptuous side dish, or enjoy it on its own!

There you have it - a flavorful, creamy, and indulgent loaded cheesy mash with bacon and caramelized onion. With its perfect blend of savory, sweet, and tangy elements, it's sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Serve it hot, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy the delightful textures and flavors in every bite.

Potato mash with bacon and caramelised onion FAQ:

What type of potatoes work best for mashing?

Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for mashing due to their starchy texture, which results in a creamy consistency. Avoid waxy varieties, as they can lead to a gummy mash.

How can I ensure my mashed potatoes are smooth and creamy?

To achieve smooth and creamy mashed potatoes, make sure to drain the potatoes well after boiling, mash them while hot, and add warm milk and butter. Over-mashing can make them gluey, so blend just until combined.

How do I store leftover potato mash?

Store leftover potato mash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if it becomes too thick.

Can I substitute the bacon or make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute bacon with a vegetarian alternative like smoked tempeh or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. Consider using vegetable broth for additional flavor.

How do I know when the onions are properly caramelized?

Onions are properly caramelized when they turn golden brown, have a sweet aroma, and are soft to the touch. The process takes about 15-20 minutes on medium heat; stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Tips:

- For the creamiest mash, be sure to use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds.

- When caramelizing onions, cook them slowly over low heat. This allows the natural sugars in the onions to break down and caramelize without burning.

- Use room temperature butter and warm milk when mashing the potatoes to achieve a smoother texture.

- To save time, you can pre-cook the bacon and store it in the fridge until you're ready to use it.

- For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika or a pinch of nutmeg to the mash.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 530kcal
Protein 16g
Carbohydrates 60g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 27g
Fat 30g

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