A comforting mash alternative at approximately 90 calories. Buttery mashed turnips crisped with crumbled bacon on top.

These Mashed Turnips with Bacon boil turnips until fork-soft, then mash them with a touch of butter and finish with a saute in leftover bacon fat for a crispy edge. It is a genuinely satisfying lower-carb side at around 90 calories and 2 WW Classic Points per serving.

Recipe Info

Serves: 4  |  Prep Time: 10 minutes  |  Cook Time: 25 minutes  |  Calories per serving: ~90

Nutrition per Serving (Estimated)

Protein: 3g  |  Fat: 6g  |  Carbohydrates: 6g  |  Fiber: 2g

WW Classic Points: Approximately 2 points per serving (in line with the original recipe, which was already reasonably light). Note: This estimate is based on the legacy WW points system and is provided as a general reference only.

Ingredients

  • 4 medium turnips, trimmed
  • Salt, to taste
  • 15g / 1/2oz unsalted butter
  • 2 rashers streaky bacon

Instructions

  1. Boil the turnips. Boil the turnips in salted water until fork-soft, about 20 minutes.
  2. Mash. Drain well and, using a potato masher, mash the turnips with the butter until smooth.
  3. Fry the bacon. Fry the bacon in a non-stick frying pan until crisp. Remove the bacon and drain off most of the fat, leaving just a thin coating in the pan.
  4. Crisp the turnips. Spoon the mashed turnip into the pan and saute until crispy at the edges.
  5. Serve. Transfer to a bowl, crumble the bacon on top, and serve.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve alongside roast chicken or pork
  • Pair with steamed green beans for a fuller plate
  • Add a sprinkle of fresh chives on top
  • Great as a lower-carb swap for mashed potato in a Sunday roast
  • Serve with grilled sausages for a satisfying dinner

Tips and Variations

  • Draining most of the bacon fat before crisping the turnips keeps this genuinely light
  • Turkey bacon works well as a leaner alternative
  • Swede can be used in place of turnip for a similar result
  • A pinch of nutmeg stirred into the mash adds a warm note
  • This dish is best served immediately while still hot

Why This Recipe Works

Sauteing the mashed turnip in leftover bacon fat crisps the edges and picks up all the smoky flavor left behind in the pan, so nothing goes to waste. This is a genuinely satisfying lower-carb alternative to mashed potato that still feels like real comfort food.

Storage and Reheating

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered pan over low heat or in the microwave.


Disclaimer: Nutritional information is estimated and may vary based on specific ingredients, brands, and portion sizes used. This recipe is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional dietary or medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for guidance tailored to your individual needs.

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