Sweet Potato Bacon Fritters

This sweet potato fritter recipe has become my go-to when I need to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of crispy exterior and tender, flavorful interior makes these fritters irresistible, while the bacon and green onions add savory depth that transforms the humble sweet potato into something extraordinary.

I first made these fritters for a weekend brunch when my in-laws visited unexpectedly. They were such a hit that they've become our family's special occasion breakfast, though they're simple enough for weeknight dinners too.

Ingredients

• Sweet potato: The star of the show provides natural sweetness and hearty texture. Choose firm potatoes with uniform orange color
• Egg: Acts as the essential binder that holds everything together. Room temperature eggs blend more easily
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty umami flavor and helps create a crispy exterior. Freshly grated works better than pre-packaged
• Flour: Helps absorb moisture and creates structure. All purpose works great, but almond flour makes them gluten free
• Brown sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness of the potato. Dark brown provides more molasses flavor
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasoning that balances the sweetness. Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper make a difference
• Onion or garlic powder: Provides aromatic depth without texture. Fresh powder has more potency than older spices
• Oregano: Adds herbal notes. Mediterranean oregano has a stronger flavor than Mexican varieties
• Green onions: Bring fresh, mild onion flavor and pretty flecks of color. Use both white and green parts for best flavor
• Bacon crumbles: Contribute smokiness and savory richness. Thick cut bacon provides bigger flavor impact
• Avocado oil: Has a high smoke point perfect for frying. Its neutral flavor lets the fritter ingredients shine

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Sweet Potatoes:

Peel your sweet potato and shred it using a food processor or box grater. This step is crucial for creating the right texture. Aim for medium shreds that will cook through evenly without burning on the outside before the inside is done.

Rinse and Drain:

Place the shredded sweet potatoes in a colander and rinse under cold water until it runs clear. This removes excess starch which helps achieve crispier fritters. Take your time with this step as thorough rinsing makes a significant difference in the final texture.

Remove Moisture:

Using a cheesecloth or clean kitchen towel, squeeze the shredded potatoes firmly to remove as much moisture as possible. The drier your mixture, the crispier your fritters will be. I usually squeeze them 2-3 times, redistributing the potatoes between squeezes.

Create the Batter:

Whisk the egg in a large bowl until slightly frothy, then add the chopped green onions and mix. This creates a flavorful base that will bind everything together. The slight beating of the egg helps create a lighter fritter.

Combine Ingredients:

Add the squeezed sweet potatoes to the egg mixture along with the cheese, flour, seasonings, and bacon if using. Mix thoroughly but gently until everything is evenly distributed. Overmixing can make the fritters dense, so fold ingredients together just until combined.

Cook to Perfection:

Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of mixture per fritter and flatten gently with a spatula. Leave space between fritters to make flipping easier. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until deeply golden brown and crisp around the edges.

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The first time I served these fritters at a family gathering, my bacon-loving nephew who typically avoids vegetables ate five in a row. That moment convinced me that sometimes the best way to introduce nutritious foods is through creative preparations that highlight familiar flavors.

Make Ahead Options

These sweet potato fritters work beautifully as a make ahead dish. You can prepare the mixture the night before and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just give it a quick stir before cooking as some liquid may separate. Alternatively, cook the fritters completely, let them cool, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes until hot and crispy again.

Perfect Pairings

These versatile fritters complement many different meals. For breakfast, serve alongside scrambled eggs and fresh fruit. As an appetizer, pair with a tangy yogurt dip or spicy aioli. For dinner, these make an excellent side dish with grilled chicken or fish. My personal favorite combination is serving them with a poached egg on top and a light arugula salad on the side for a complete meal that balances textures and flavors beautifully.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your fritters aren't holding together well, there are a few easy fixes. First, make sure you've squeezed out enough moisture from the sweet potatoes as excess water is usually the culprit. If they're still falling apart, add an extra tablespoon of flour to help bind the mixture. Another common issue is cooking temperature. If your fritters are burning on the outside before cooking through, your heat is too high. Aim for a steady medium heat that allows for even cooking.

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Sweet potato fritters are the perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can be combined creatively to create something truly memorable. Whether you're serving them to impress guests or as a quick weeknight dinner, these fritters are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these sweet potato fritters ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mixture up to a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. For fully cooked fritters, reheat them in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or in an air fryer for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.

→ Are these fritters gluten-free?

They can be! Simply substitute the regular flour with almond flour as mentioned in the ingredients list for a gluten-free version that's just as delicious.

→ What's the best way to drain the shredded sweet potatoes?

After rinsing the shredded sweet potatoes under cold water, using a cheesecloth bag is ideal for squeezing out excess moisture. Alternatively, you can place them between paper towels and press firmly. Removing as much moisture as possible helps achieve crispier fritters.

→ Can I make these vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon crumbles. You can enhance the flavor with extra cheese, herbs, or even add other vegetables like finely chopped bell peppers for additional texture and flavor.

→ What dipping sauces work well with these fritters?

Sour cream is a classic pairing, but homemade chipotle sauce adds a smoky kick. Other excellent options include garlic aioli, ranch dressing, sriracha mayo, or even a simple Greek yogurt sauce with herbs.

→ How can I ensure my fritters don't fall apart while cooking?

Make sure to properly drain the sweet potatoes of excess moisture and wait until the pan and oil are fully heated before adding the mixture. Let the fritters cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes on the first side to form a crust before flipping. Using a thin, wide spatula helps keep them intact.