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 combination of sweet and savory flavors that make for an irresistible appetizer. Perfect for festive gatherings, holiday parties, or game day snacks, these skewers are not only easy to assemble but also pack a punch with their caramelized goodness. The tender sweet potatoes wrapped in crispy turkey bacon and brushed with a maple-brown sugar glaze will have your guests coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, these skewers are fast to make.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavors: The combination of sweet potatoes and turkey bacon offers a unique flavor that appeals to many.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them warm as an appetizer or cold as a snack; they taste great either way!
• Healthy Twist on Classic: Using turkey bacon adds a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: These skewers are ideal for holiday parties, casual get-togethers, or even brunch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper or foil
• Pot for parboiling
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Essential for roasting the skewers evenly while allowing the fat to drip away.
• Parchment paper or foil: Helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easier after roasting.
• Mixing bowl: Necessary for combining ingredients to create the delicious glaze.
• Whisk: Useful for blending ingredients smoothly when making the glaze.

Ingredients

For the Sweet Potatoes

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes

For the Turkey Bacon

• 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 Garnish

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

Dipping Sauces (Optional)

• Vegan marshmallows fluff, spicy aioli, or 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 prepare it for roasting.

Step 2: Parboil Sweet Potatoes

In a pot of boiling water, parboil the sweet potato cubes for 5–7 minutes until they are just fork-tender. Drain them well and let them cool slightly.

Step 3: Make Glaze

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
1. Brown sugar
2. Maple syrup
3. Olive oil (or melted butter)
4. Cinnamon
5. Cayenne (or chili powder)
6. Garlic powder (if using)

Step 4: Toss Potatoes in Glaze

Add the cooled sweet potato cubes into the bowl with the glaze. Toss until they are evenly coated with the mixture.

Step 5: Assemble Skewers

Wrap each sweet potato cube in turkey bacon slices or alternate them on skewers.

Step 6: Bake or Grill

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

Step 7: Optional Glaze Brush

During the last 5 minutes of cooking, consider brushing additional glaze over the skewers for extra shine and flavor.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Serve these delicious skewers warm alongside your choice of dipping sauces. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sea salt before enjoying!

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

These Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors, making them a versatile appetizer for any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your presentation.

Pair with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh rosemary or thyme adds an aromatic touch. Just sprinkle them on top before serving for an extra pop of flavor.

Dipping Sauces

• Offer a variety of dipping sauces like vegan marshmallow fluff, spicy aioli, or maple mustard. These add different flavor profiles that complement the skewers beautifully.

Garnish with Sea Salt

• A light finishing sprinkle of sea salt enhances the sweetness of the potatoes and the savoriness of the turkey bacon.

Serve Warm

• For the best taste, serve these skewers warm straight from the oven or grill. They maintain their crispy texture when enjoyed fresh.

Arrange on a Platter

• Present the skewers on a large platter, arranging them artfully to catch guests’ eyes. This makes for an inviting centerpiece at your gathering.

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

For truly outstanding skewers, consider these helpful tips that will ensure perfect results every time you make this recipe.

• Pre-cook sweet potatoes: Parboiling sweet potato cubes ensures they cook evenly without burning the bacon.
• Use quality turkey bacon: Opt for thick-cut turkey bacon for better texture and flavor during cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd skewers: Give each piece enough space on the skewer to allow heat circulation, promoting even cooking.
• Brush with glaze: Applying extra glaze in the last few minutes of baking makes the skewers shinier and more flavorful.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust seasoning levels or add other spices like smoked paprika to enhance taste further.

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

Complement your Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers with delicious side dishes that round out your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts tossed in balsamic glaze provide a crunchy contrast to the skewers.
2. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs well with savory flavors.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad packed with veggies offers a light and healthy accompaniment.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the skewers.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus drizzled with lemon juice brings brightness to your plate.
6. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or beans can be a hearty side dish that complements the sweet notes of your skewers.
7. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful bite-sized treat alongside your savory appetizers.
8. Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit salad provides freshness and sweetness, making it a perfect contrast to your savory skewer dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Not parboiling sweet potatoes: Skipping this step can lead to undercooked potatoes. Always parboil to ensure they become tender when roasted.
• Using thick cuts of Turkey Bacon: Thick slices may not crisp up properly. Opt for regular-cut turkey bacon for better texture and flavor.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Stuffing too many ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Space them out for optimal caramelization and crispiness.
• Neglecting the glaze: Failing to coat the potatoes evenly can result in bland skewers. Take your time to toss them in the glaze thoroughly.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Cooking at too low a temperature may not yield crispy bacon. Stick to 400°F (200°C) for perfectly caramelized results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover 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 skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet before freezing.
• Once frozen, transfer them into a freezer bag and store 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 for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes but be aware that this may soften the bacon.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious recipe.

How do I make Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers Recipe – Candied, Crispy & Perfect for Parties gluten-free?

You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by ensuring that any sauces or condiments used are labeled gluten-free.

Can I use other types of sweet potatoes?

Yes! While orange sweet potatoes are commonly used, you can experiment with purple or white varieties for different flavors.

What dipping sauces pair well with these skewers?

Dipping sauces like vegan marshmallow fluff, spicy aioli, or maple mustard complement the flavors beautifully.

Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the skewers and refrigerate them before cooking. Just add extra time to bake when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

These Sweet Potato and Turkey Bacon Skewers are not only candied and crispy but also versatile enough for any gathering. Feel free to customize them with your favorite spices or dipping sauces. Give this recipe a try at your next party—your guests will love it!