Every time I fire up the grill for a gathering, I can’t help but think about the magic of skewers! There’s something so fun and festive about food on a stick, don’t you think? My friends and family always rave about my Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers. The sweet, creamy texture of the sweet potatoes perfectly balances the crispy, savory bacon. Wow, just thinking about that flavor combination gets me excited! These skewers are not only a hit at barbecues but also a fantastic appetizer for any occasion. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!
Ingredients for Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers Recipe
Let’s gather everything we need to create these delicious Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers! Here’s what you’ll need:
2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
8 slices of bacon, cut into halves
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
When you’re picking out your sweet potatoes, look for ones that feel firm and smooth. Trust me, the better the ingredients, the better your skewers will taste! And don’t skimp on the bacon—go for a good quality one that’ll crisp up beautifully on the grill. Now, let’s get ready to skewer some magic!
How to Prepare Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers Recipe
Alright, let’s dive into the fun part—making these amazing Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers! I promise, the steps are straightforward, and soon you’ll be grilling up a storm!
Step 1: Preheat Your Grill
First things first, you’ll want to preheat your grill to medium heat. This step is super crucial because it helps ensure that your skewers cook evenly and that the bacon gets nice and crispy. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than undercooked bacon on a skewer!
Step 2: Boil Sweet Potatoes
Next, let’s get those sweet potatoes boiling! Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a pot of boiling water and let them cook for about 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when you can easily pierce them with a fork. Don’t forget to drain them and let them cool just a bit before moving on. Oops! You don’t want to burn your fingers!
Step 3: Season the Sweet Potatoes
Now it’s time to add some flavor! In a large bowl, toss the slightly cooled sweet potatoes with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is well coated—this is where the magic happens! The olive oil will help crisp them up on the grill while the spices add a delicious kick.
Step 4: Prepare Bacon-Wrapped Sweet Potatoes
Here comes the fun part! Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it around each sweet potato cube, securing it tightly. Then, thread these little bundles of joy onto skewers. Make sure to space them a bit apart so they grill evenly. It’s like a little work of art, and I can already smell the deliciousness!
Step 5: Grill the Skewers
Time to get grilling! Place the skewers on your preheated grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally. You’ll want to keep an eye on them to ensure the bacon gets that beautiful crispy texture. The sweet potatoes will soften and soak up all that yummy bacon flavor—yum!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once they’re perfectly grilled, remove the skewers from the grill and serve them warm. These Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers are fantastic on their own, but if you want to take it up a notch, you can pair them with a nice dipping sauce like ranch or a zesty aioli. Presentation is key—arrange them on a platter, and watch your friends and family dive in!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers turn out absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few handy tips that I swear by. First off, if you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This little trick prevents them from burning on the grill, and trust me, your skewers will thank you!
Next, don’t be shy with the seasoning! Adjust the salt, pepper, and paprika to fit your taste buds. If you like a bit more kick, toss in a pinch of cayenne or some garlic powder for an extra flavor boost. Remember, the more you taste and adjust, the more you’ll fall in love with your skewers!
Lastly, keep an eye on your grilling time. Every grill is different, so it might take a little less or a little more time to get that bacon just right. Make sure to turn them regularly for even cooking. You want that crispy bacon and tender sweet potato to be just perfect! Happy grilling!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk numbers! While these Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers are undeniably delicious, it’s also good to know what you’re indulging in. Here’s a typical breakdown of the nutritional values per serving, which is about 2 skewers:
Calories: 250
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 24g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 500mg
Cholesterol: 20mg
Keep in mind, these figures are just estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But with sweet potatoes and bacon in the mix, you can count on a satisfying combination of flavor and nutrition. Enjoy these skewers guilt-free and savor every bite!
FAQ About Sweet Potato and Bacon Skewers Recipe
Can I use other vegetables with this recipe?
Absolutely! While sweet potatoes are a star in this dish, you can easily swap in other veggies that pair beautifully with bacon. Think about using zucchini, bell peppers, or even chunks of red onion. They’ll all soak up that smoky, savory goodness from the bacon and add a nice pop of color to your skewers!
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
If you want to get a head start, you can prepare the sweet potatoes and wrap them in bacon a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This way, you’ll save time when it’s go-time at your gathering! Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.
What dipping sauces go well with these skewers?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love serving these skewers with a creamy ranch dressing or a tangy barbecue sauce—it really complements the sweet and savory flavors. You could also try a spicy aioli or a zesty chimichurri for a fresh twist. Just set out a couple of options, and watch your guests enjoy dipping away!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings!
Deliciously unique flavor combination of sweet, creamy sweet potatoes and crispy, savory bacon.
Versatile dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, side, or even a main course.
Customizable! Feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
Grilling gives it that mouthwatering smoky flavor that everyone loves.
Great for meal prepping; they’re easy to make ahead and reheat for a quick snack!
Kid-friendly and sure to impress both adults and little ones alike!
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