potato rolls with bacon

Potato Rolls with Bacon combine the soft, pillowy texture of homemade potato rolls with the savory, smoky goodness of crispy bacon. These rolls make a perfect addition to any meal or a delightful snack on their own!

Ingredients:

For the Potato Rolls:

• 2 cups mashed potatoes (preferably made from russet potatoes, cooled)
• 1/2 cup warm milk (about 110°F)
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 1 packet active dry yeast (about 2 1/4 teaspoons)
• 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour (divided)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 egg (for egg wash, optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the bowl)

For the Bacon:

• 6 strips of bacon
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional for candied bacon)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Bacon

1. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet or on a baking sheet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. If you like candied bacon, sprinkle the bacon with brown sugar before cooking. Drain the cooked bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and sugar. Sprinkle the yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, until it becomes foamy.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the mashed potatoes, melted butter, and salt. Stir to combine. Then, add the yeast mixture to the mashed potatoes.
3. Add Flour: Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing with a wooden spoon until the dough comes together. You may need up to 4 cups of flour depending on the consistency of your dough.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, a little at a time.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl (use olive oil or a bit of melted butter), cover with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Shape the Rolls: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface and divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
3. Incorporate Bacon: Flatten each dough ball slightly and sprinkle a tablespoon of chopped bacon in the center. Fold the dough over the bacon, pinching the edges to seal. Shape the rolls into balls again.
4. Place in Pan: Place the filled rolls into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a round cake pan, spacing them slightly apart.

Step 4: Second Rise

1. Let the Rolls Rise: Cover the pan with a kitchen towel and let the rolls rise for another 30-45 minutes, until puffy and doubled in size.

Step 5: Bake

1. Brush with Egg Wash (Optional): If you’d like a golden, shiny finish, beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the rolls before baking.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown on top.

Step 6: Serve

1. Cool and Serve: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, with the crispy bacon and soft, fluffy bread.

These Potato Rolls with Bacon are perfect for any meal, from a side dish to a fun snack or appetizer! Enjoy the savory, comforting combination of soft bread and smoky bacon.