Loaded Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Leeks

I think adding the word "loaded" to a recipe makes it sound much more enticing.  Adding bacon to a recipe makes it taste much more delicious. The two combined are magical.  

As part of the Foodbuzz Tastemaker Program, I received free Simply Potatoes - made by Crystal Farms.  Thank you Foodbuzz!  They are simply easy to make, made from simple, fresh ingredients, and they and simply delicious!

Simply Potatoes makes a wide variety of fresh potato selections.  For this recipe, I used their Garlic Mashed Potatoes.  

Instead of a loaded baked potato - I decided to make loaded mashed potatoes and add a special twist by using leeks.  Leeks are part of the onion and garlic family, and they have a delicious - not too strong, not too subtle oniony/garlicky flavor.  

Loaded Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Leeks
Serves 4
Cooking time: 15 minutes

Ingredients
3 TBS butter
1 leek (include part of stalk)
1 package Simply Potatoes Garlic Mashed Potatoes (24 ounces)
4 slices bacon
3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/4 cup sour cream
Fresh ground pepper & salt
Sour cream, shredded cheese, and bacon for garnish, if desired

Melt butter in large frying pan on medium heat. Wash and slice leek then rinse again in strainer.  Add leek to pan and simmer, covered for 10 minutes or until softened, stirring often.  Meanwhile, on small plate with paper towel add slices of bacon and cover with additional paper towel.  Microwave for 4-5 minutes, until crispy.  Add mashed potatoes to pan and stir.  Chop bacon into small pieces (reserve some for garnish if desired).  Add sour cream, shredded cheese, bacon, salt and pepper to the potatoes and stir.  Cook until heated through and serve immediately.  Garnish with additional cheese, sour cream, and bacon pieces if desired.  Enjoy!