By Cindy Adams

This is an absolute must for Thanksgiving! It’s so easy and so good with the sage-butter and crisp bacon bits!

„

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

INGREDIENTS:

3 1/2 pounds medium sweet potatoes
5 slices bacon, chopped
1/2 cup unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage leaves
2 tablespoons maple syrup
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:„

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with foil
or parchment paper.

2. Place potatoes in a single layer onto the prepared baking sheet. Place into oven and bake until tender, about 1 hour. Let cool before peeling.

3. Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add bacon and cook until brown and crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat; transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate.

4. Melt butter in the skillet. Add garlic and sage, and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat; keep warm.

5. Using a potato masher, mash potatoes until smooth. Stir in maple syrup and 6 tablespoons reserved butter mixture; season with salt and pepper, to taste.

6. Serve immediately with remaining butter mixture and bacon.