While setting up for our latest gathering, the scent of sizzling bacon mingled with the sweetness of caramelized sweet potatoes filled the air, igniting my excitement. These Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers are not just another party dish; they are a delightful fusion of flavors that transforms simple ingredients into a crowd-pleasing appetizer. What truly makes this recipe irresistible is how quick it is to whip up, making it perfect for those spontaneous get-togethers. Plus, the vibrant colors and sticky glaze create a beautiful presentation that will surely impress your guests. Ready to elevate your appetizer game? Let’s dive into this deliciously sweet-savory recipe that’s bound to steal the spotlight at your next gathering!
Why Are Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers So Loved?
Irresistible Flavor: The sweet-savory combination of caramelized sweet potatoes and crispy bacon creates an explosion of taste that guests adore.
Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can create a gourmet appetizer without extensive cooking skills, freeing up more time for socializing.
Visually Stunning: The vibrant colors and sticky glaze make these skewers a gorgeous addition to any gathering, perfect for showcasing your culinary flair.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for a holiday party or backyard BBQ, these skewers are guaranteed to be a hit, much like our Ground Turkey Sweet Potato Bake.
Versatile Options: Easily customize them by swapping out bacon for turkey bacon or introducing different spices, allowing you to tailor the flavors to suit any occasion.
Ingredients for Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers
• • Get ready to make these delightful bites!
For the Skewers
- Sweet Potatoes – Natural sweetness and texture; cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Bacon – Adds smoky, salty crunch; use regular or turkey bacon for a lighter option.
For the Glaze
- Brown Sugar – Provides sweetness and caramelization for that irresistible sticky finish.
- Maple Syrup or Honey – Enhances the glaze’s sweetness, perfectly complementing the sweet potatoes.
- Olive Oil or Melted Butter – Binds the glaze and adds a rich depth of flavor.
- Cinnamon – Introduces warm, aromatic notes that elevate the dish.
- Cayenne or Chili Powder – Adds spicy heat for that exciting kick.
- Garlic Powder (optional) – Enhances the savory notes, creating a more complex flavor profile.
For Finishing Touches
- Sea Salt – Enhances overall flavor; sprinkle on at the end for a delicious finish.
- Fresh Rosemary or Thyme (optional) – Adds delightful herbal freshness, brightening each bite.
- Dipping Sauces (optional) – Consider marshmallow fluff, spicy aioli, or maple mustard for an added flavor burst.
Get ready to impress your guests with these Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) or set your grill to medium heat. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to catch any drippings and make cleanup easy. This setup creates the perfect cooking environment for your Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers, ensuring they turn out perfectly crispy.
Step 2: Parboil the Sweet Potatoes
In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Add the 1-inch sweet potato cubes and parboil for 5–7 minutes, until they are fork-tender yet still firm. This step is key for achieving a tender interior while keeping the exterior intact for skewering. After boiling, drain the sweet potatoes and let them cool slightly.
Step 3: Make the Glaze
In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, maple syrup or honey, olive oil or melted butter, cinnamon, cayenne, and optional garlic powder. Mix until smooth and fully combined. This sticky glaze will coat your sweet potatoes beautifully, enhancing the flavor profile of your Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers.
Step 4: Coat the Sweet Potatoes
Toss the cooled sweet potato cubes in the glaze until they are fully coated. Ensure every piece is enveloped in the mixture to maximize flavor and caramelization. The glaze will give the sweet potatoes a lovely shine, making them irresistible once cooked.
Step 5: Assemble the Skewers
Take wooden or metal skewers and start assembling your Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers by wrapping bacon slices around each sweet potato cube or alternating them on the skewer. This method not only adds flavor but also creates a visually appealing contrast between the sweet potatoes and crispy bacon.
Step 6: Cook the Skewers
Place your assembled skewers on the prepared baking sheet or grill. Bake or grill for 25–30 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. The bacon should become crispy, and the sweet potatoes should caramelize beautifully, creating an enticing aroma.
Step 7: Optional Glaze Brush
For an extra glossy finish, brush the skewers with more glaze during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will enhance the sweetness and add a deeper flavor to your Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers, making them even more appealing.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once done, remove the skewers from the oven or grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces, such as marshmallow fluff or spicy aioli. A light sprinkle of herbs or sea salt enhances the dish’s presentation and flavor, making your Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers the star of the gathering.
Expert Tips for Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers
• Consistent Sizing: Ensure sweet potato cubes are cut evenly to guarantee they cook uniformly and achieve the perfect texture.
• Avoid Overboiling: Parboil the potatoes just until fork-tender to keep them firm enough for skewering, preventing them from falling apart.
• Crispy Bacon Trick: For extra crispy bacon, place the skewers on a wire rack while baking or grilling, allowing fat to drain away for a delightful crunch.
• Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes prior to cooking. This prevents burning while grilling or baking.
• Customize the Glaze: Feel free to experiment with spice levels and sweetness in the glaze, adjusting cayenne or adding more maple syrup to suit your taste.
• Leftover Storage: Store any leftover skewers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain their delightful texture.
What to Serve With Candied Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers
When hosting a gathering, complementing the delightful flavors of skewers can transform your meal into a memorable experience.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Rich and velvety, they balance the savory-sweet nature of the skewers. The smooth texture makes every bite comforting.
Fresh Green Salad: A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette adds brightness, cutting through the richness of the bacon and glaze. Toss in some candied nuts for an extra crunch!
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky, and charred to perfection, grilled corn enhances the outdoor, festive feel of your event. It’s a fun finger food that pairs beautifully!
Roasted Asparagus: Tender-crisp asparagus seasoned with lemon zest provides a vibrant color and refreshing crunch, bridging the savory and sweet flavors beautifully.
Honey Butter Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits with a touch of honey bring a delightful sweetness that complements the skewers while being perfect for sopping up any glaze.
Sparkling Apple Cider: Non-alcoholic and refreshing, this drink echoes the sweet notes of the skewers and adds a festive sparkle to your table setting.
With these diverse pairings, you’ll create a feast that delights the senses and keeps your guests raving about the meal!
How to Store and Freeze Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers
Fridge: Store leftover sweet potato and bacon skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for reheating.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze assembled but uncooked skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat skewers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until heated through and crispy. This retains the delightful texture and flavor.
Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers Variations
Feel free to explore these variations and personalize your Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers for a truly unique experience!
- Turkey Bacon: Swap out regular bacon for turkey bacon for a lighter, healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Different Sweet Potatoes: Use unique varieties like purple or Japanese sweet potatoes for a colorful twist on texture and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Experiment with adding smoked paprika or cumin to your glaze for an exciting depth of flavor that dances on your palate.
- Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro into your glaze for a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Heat Level Adjustment: If you like a bit of heat, increase the amount of cayenne or chili powder in the glaze for a spicier kick.
- Alternative Glaze: Try using a mixture of hoisin sauce and honey for a sweet, Asian-inspired flavor that pairs wonderfully with the sweet potatoes.
- Dipping Sauce Twist: Experiment with different dipping sauces, like spicy aioli or a honey mustard blend, to cater to varied taste preferences.
- Add Veggies: For added nutrition and color, skew some colorful bell peppers or zucchini alongside the sweet potatoes for a delicious presentation.
Remember, the world of flavors is at your fingertips! If you’d like to dive into more delightful dishes, check out our authentic Spanish chorizo potato soup or enjoy the seasonal goodness of our butternut sweet potato casserole. Happy cooking!
Make Ahead Options
These Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can parboil the sweet potatoes and prepare the glaze up to 24 hours in advance. Simply parboil the sweet potato cubes for 5–7 minutes, drain, and let them cool before refrigerating. Store the glaze in a separate container in the fridge to keep its consistency intact. When you’re ready to assemble and cook, just toss the cold sweet potatoes in the glaze, wrap them with bacon, and bake or grill as directed. This prep-ahead strategy allows you to enjoy the delightful, sweet-savory flavor of these skewers with minimal effort on the day of your gathering!
Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers Recipe FAQ
How do I select ripe sweet potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing sweet potatoes, look for firm, smooth ones without dark spots or blemishes. A good sweet potato should feel heavy for its size and have a deep, vibrant color. Smaller to medium-sized sweet potatoes are usually sweeter and less starchy, making them perfect for skewer recipes.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of the skewers?
After enjoying your delicious Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just make sure they are fully cooled before placing them in the container to avoid moisture buildup.
Can I freeze Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers?
Yes, you can! To freeze, assemble the skewers but do not cook them yet. Lay them flat on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. After they’re frozen, transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, just pop them in the oven without thawing—bake for a few extra minutes to ensure they’re heated through.
What should I do if the bacon isn’t getting crispy enough?
Very good question! If your bacon isn’t crisping up, try elevating the skewers on a wire rack while they cook. This method allows the fats to drip away and ensures that hot air circulates around the skewers, leading to a crunchier bacon texture. Additionally, consider extending the cooking time by a few minutes, keeping an eye on them to prevent burning.
Are these skewers suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can customize these Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers to fit various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, ensure all your ingredients are certified gluten-free. If you want to make them healthier, using turkey bacon is a great alternative. Always check for allergies, especially if you’re using unconventional dipping sauces or spices.
Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers for Irresistible Flavor Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or set your grill to medium heat. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Bring water to a rolling boil. Parboil sweet potato cubes for 5–7 minutes until fork-tender yet firm.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together brown sugar, maple syrup or honey, olive oil or melted butter, cinnamon, cayenne, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Toss the cooled sweet potato cubes in the glaze until fully coated.
- Assemble skewers by wrapping bacon slices around each sweet potato cube or alternating them.
- Place skewers on the prepared baking sheet or grill and cook for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Brush with more glaze during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a glossy finish.
- Let skewers rest for a few minutes before serving warm with dipping sauces.
