Loaded Sweet Potato Skins with Candied Bacon and a Spicy Basil Cream Sauce

Sweet, savory, and a touch spicy—these loaded sweet potato skins are the perfect appetizer, snack, or even dinner option. Crispy sweet potato skins are filled with sharp cheddar cheese, diced candied bacon, and topped with a drizzle of spicy basil cream sauce for a bold flavor experience. Garnished with fresh chives, this recipe is sure to impress family and guests alike.

Chef’s Tips

• Prep Ahead: Save time by preparing the candied bacon and spicy basil cream sauce a day ahead. Store them in airtight containers until ready to use.
• Save the Sweet Potato Flesh: Use the scooped-out sweet potato flesh to make mashed sweet potatoes or add it to smoothies for extra nutrition.
• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer less heat, remove the seeds from the jalapeño or substitute with a milder chili pepper.
• Crispy Skins: For extra crispy sweet potato skins, broil them for 2–3 minutes before serving.

Ingredients

Loaded Sweet Potato Skins

• 4 medium sweet potatoes: Choose uniformly sized potatoes for even cooking.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the skins crisp up in the oven.
• Kosher salt: Enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, tangy flavor.
• 5 strips candied bacon (cooked and diced): Sweet and savory, the perfect topping.
• Drizzle of spicy basil cream sauce: Balances the dish with creamy, spicy goodness.
• Chives (chopped): Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor for garnish.

Easy Candied Bacon

• ½ pound thick-cut bacon: Opt for high-quality bacon for the best results.
• ¼ cup brown sugar: Creates a caramelized, sweet coating.
• Freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a subtle spicy note to complement the sweetness.

Spicy Basil Cream Sauce

• 1 handful fresh basil leaves: Bright and herbaceous.
• 1 jalapeño pepper (chopped): Adds heat; adjust to taste.
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt: Creamy base with a tangy flavor.
• 2 teaspoons honey: Balances the spice with a touch of sweetness.
• 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar: Adds acidity and brightness.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and balances the flavors.

Instructions

Loaded Sweet Potato Skins

1. Preheat and Prepare Potatoes:
   Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil. Wash and dry the sweet potatoes. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with kosher salt, and pierce each potato several times with a fork.
2. Bake Potatoes:
   Place the sweet potatoes on the baking sheet and bake for 40–50 minutes or until tender. Let cool before handling.
3. Scoop and Fill:
   Once cool, slice the sweet potatoes in half and scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer of potato inside. Arrange the skins face-up on the baking sheet. Save the scooped-out flesh for another use.
4. Add Toppings:
   Sprinkle the potato skins with shredded cheddar cheese and diced candied bacon.

5. Bake Again:
   Return to the oven and bake for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
   Drizzle with spicy basil cream sauce and garnish with chopped chives.

Easy Candied Bacon

1. Preheat Oven:
   Preheat the oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with foil or a wire rack.
2. Prepare Bacon:
   Arrange bacon slices on the baking sheet. Sprinkle with brown sugar and freshly cracked black pepper, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Bake:
   Bake for 25 minutes or until caramelized and crisp. Remove from the oven and let cool.

Spicy Basil Cream Sauce

1. Blend Ingredients:
   Add basil, jalapeño, Greek yogurt, honey, white wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
2. Adjust Seasoning:
   Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Storage and Reheating

• Sweet Potato Skins: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to restore crispness.
• Candied Bacon: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Spicy Basil Cream Sauce: Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in a sealed container.

FAQs

Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes! Russet potatoes work well for a savory twist on this recipe.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?
Omit the candied bacon or replace it with a plant-based bacon alternative.

What can I serve with these loaded sweet potato skins?
They pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad, roasted veggies, or as a side to grilled chicken or steak.

Can I make the spicy basil cream sauce milder?
Remove the jalapeño seeds or use a milder chili pepper for less heat.

Loaded Sweet Potato Skins with Candied Bacon and Spicy Basil Cream Sauce are the ultimate combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.