Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers Recipe – Candied, Crispy & Perfect for Parties

These Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers Recipe – Candied, Crispy & Perfect for Parties are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them the perfect appetizer for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, enjoying game day, or just want a tasty snack, these skewers are sure to impress. The combination of tender sweet potatoes wrapped in smoky turkey bacon and brushed with a delicious maple-brown sugar glaze creates a unique treat that everyone will love. Easy to assemble and bursting with flavor, they’re destined to be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The mix of sweet potatoes and smoky turkey bacon offers a balanced taste that pleases every palate.
• Quick Assembly: With simple steps, you can put these skewers together in no time, making them ideal for last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm as an appetizer or serve them alongside dipping sauces for added flair.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together or a festive feast, these skewers fit right in.
• Healthier Alternative: Using turkey bacon instead of traditional pork options makes this recipe lighter yet flavorful.

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your cooking experience is smooth, gather the necessary tools before you start. Having everything ready will make the process quicker and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or foil
• Medium pot
• Mixing bowl
• Skewers

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for cooking the skewers, ensuring they caramelize perfectly.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining your glaze ingredients without making a mess.
• Medium pot: Essential for parboiling the sweet potatoes to achieve the right tenderness before roasting.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers Recipe – Candied, Crispy & Perfect for Parties, you will need:

For the Skewers

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 12 slices regular-cut turkey bacon, halved or cut into thirds

For the Glaze

• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• 1 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp cayenne or chili powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)

For Garnishing

• Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)
• Sea salt for finishing

Optional Dipping Sauces

• Vegan marshmallows fluff
• Spicy aioli
• Maple mustard

How to Make Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers Recipe – Candied, Crispy & Perfect for Parties

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat your grill to medium. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Parboil Sweet Potatoes

Parboil the sweet potato cubes in boiling water for 5–7 minutes until they are just fork-tender. Drain and allow them to cool slightly before continuing.

Step 3: Make Glaze

In a mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, maple syrup, olive oil, cinnamon, cayenne, and garlic powder until well combined.

Step 4: Coat Potatoes in Glaze

Toss the parboiled sweet potato cubes in the glaze mixture until they are evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble Skewers

Wrap each sweet potato cube with turkey bacon or alternate them on skewers. Secure tightly so that they hold together during cooking.

Step 6: Bake or Grill Skewers

Place the assembled skewers on the prepared baking sheet (or wire rack). Roast them in the oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through until the turkey bacon is crisp and the potatoes are caramelized.

Step 7: Optional Glaze Brush

For an extra layer of flavor, brush with additional glaze during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added shine.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces. Garnish with fresh herbs or sea salt for an enhanced presentation. Enjoy your delicious Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers!

How to Serve Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers Recipe – Candied, Crispy & Perfect for Parties

These Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be served in various ways to enhance your gathering. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will impress your guests.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh Rosemary or Thyme: Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top of the skewers enhances flavor and adds a pop of color.

Dipping Sauces

• Vegan Marshmallow Fluff: This sweet dip complements the candied flavor of the skewers perfectly.
• Spicy Aioli: A creamy, spicy sauce that balances the sweetness with heat.
• Maple Mustard: This tangy sauce provides a delightful contrast to the sweet potatoes.

Serve on a Platter

• Stunning Presentation: Arrange the skewers on a large platter with colorful vegetables to create an eye-catching display.

Pair with Drinks

• Refreshing Lemonade or Iced Tea: These drinks provide a refreshing counterpoint to the savory richness of the skewers.

How to Perfect Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers Recipe – Candied, Crispy & Perfect for Parties

To achieve the best results with your Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Parboil Sweet Potatoes: Parboiling ensures they cook evenly and become tender without burning during grilling or baking.
• Bold Use Quality Turkey Bacon: Choose high-quality turkey bacon for better flavor and crispiness when cooked.
• Bold Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your preference, adding more cayenne for heat or cinnamon for sweetness.
• Bold Brush Extra Glaze: Brushing skewers with extra glaze during the last few minutes of cooking enhances caramelization and adds shine.

Best Side Dishes for Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers Recipe – Candied, Crispy & Perfect for Parties

Pairing side dishes with your Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Crispy Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the skewers.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted till caramelized add color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes offer comfort alongside the sweet-and-savory skewers.
4. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with chopped veggies provides texture and health benefits.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender skewers.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with herb butter is a summer favorite that pairs well with any party food.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing the Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers, it’s essential to avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Not parboiling sweet potatoes – Skipping this step can lead to undercooked potatoes. Make sure to parboil them until just fork-tender for even cooking.
• Overcrowding the skewers – Packing too many ingredients on a skewer may lead to uneven cooking. Leave some space between pieces for better heat circulation.
• Ignoring glaze application – Forgetting to brush on the glaze can result in less flavor and caramelization. Apply it generously for that sweet, sticky finish.
• Using low-quality Turkey Bacon – Lower quality options may not crisp up as desired. Opt for regular-cut Turkey Bacon for a better texture and taste.
• Skipping fresh herbs – Not garnishing with herbs can make the dish less visually appealing. Add fresh rosemary or thyme before serving for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked skewers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers Recipe – Candied, Crispy & Perfect for Parties

• Place cooled skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers Recipe – Candied, Crispy & Perfect for Parties

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat skewers on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warm and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium for 1-2 minutes. Note that this method may soften the bacon.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet over medium heat, reheating skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries related to the Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers Recipe.

Can I use other types of meat instead of Turkey Bacon?

Yes, you can substitute Turkey Bacon with chicken or beef bacon based on your preference. Ensure they are cut similarly for even cooking.

How do I ensure my sweet potatoes cook evenly?

Parboiling sweet potatoes before assembling is key. This step helps them cook through while ensuring they don’t become mushy during roasting.

What dipping sauces pair well with these skewers?

Try vegan marshmallows fluff, spicy aioli, or maple mustard as delicious dipping options that complement the sweet and savory flavors.

Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the skewers ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake or grill them.

How do I customize this recipe?

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini between the sweet potato cubes. You can also experiment with different spices for more flavor.

Final Thoughts

These Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Their sweet-and-savory combination is sure to please guests at parties or family gatherings. Customize them by adding your favorite veggies or dipping sauces, making them perfect for any palate!