Loaded Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients

• 1.5kg sweet potatoes, peeled and sliced ~5mm thick
• 30mL olive oil
• 15mL smoked paprika
• 15mL garlic powder
• 6mL salt
• 2.5mL pepper
• 250g (~500mL) extra sharp cheddar, grated
• 4 slices bacon, cut into 1cm pieces
• 3 scallions, sliced thin
• sour cream

Procedure

1. Adjust oven rack to middle position. Preheat to 400°F.
2. Toss potatoes, oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
3. Microwave, covered, until potatoes are just tender, 10-12 minutes; stir halfway through. Uncover and let cool until safe to handle, ~15 minutes.
4. Grease a 13"x9" baking dish.
5. Layer the ingredients into the dish, alternating ⅓ of the potatoes with 125mL cheddar. After putting the third layer of potatoes in, pour in any liquid from the bowl and cover with all the remaining cheddar.
6. Bake until knife-tender and cheese is starting to brown, ~30 minutes.
7. Meanwhile, cook bacon until crispy, 6-8 minutes, and transfer to paper towel to dry.
8. Remove dish from oven and let cool for 15 minutes. Top with bacons and scallions and serve with sour cream.