Bacon and Sage Mashed Potatoes

Save these rich, decadent mashed potatoes for the coldest, dreariest winter day.

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 5  large yukon gold potatoes or 5  large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 (14 1/2ounce) cans chicken broth
• 3  tablespoons butter
• 2 1⁄2 cups  shredded smoked gouda cheese
• 4  slices bacon, fried until crisp (but not black)
• 2  tablespoons  finely chopped fresh sage

Directions

1. Place the potatoes and enough broth to barely cover them in a large saucepan and bring to a boil.
2. Cover, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer just until tender, about 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Drain the potatoes, reserving the cooking liquid.
4. Return the potatoes and 1 cup of the cooking liquid to the saucepan and, using a potato masher or the back of a wooden spoon, mash until smooth. Add the butter and gouda and stir until incorporated and melted; do not overmix.
5. If necessary, add more broth to attain the desired consistency.
6. Stir in the bacon, sage and salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.