If you’re craving a dish that perfectly blends creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavors into one irresistible comfort food, you absolutely have to try this Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe. It’s a hearty, soul-warming casserole loaded with tender diced russet potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, all brought together with a luscious sour cream and mayonnaise base. Every bite feels like a warm hug, making it the ultimate side dish for family dinners, holiday feasts, or anytime you want to treat yourself to something special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be simple, but they each play a crucial role in creating the rich taste, creamy texture, and beautiful color that make this dish so comforting and memorable.
- 6 cups diced russet potatoes: The hearty base that holds all the flavors together with a tender yet sturdy bite.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess that perfectly balances the richness of the cheese and bacon.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Keeps the potatoes moist and adds a subtle, luscious texture.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a warm, savory depth without overpowering other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Brings a mild sweetness and aroma to the mix.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors so every bite is spot-on delicious.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right touch of spice and complexity.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides that gooey, melty, bold cheesy goodness everyone loves.
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions: Adds a fresh crunch and a pop of vibrant color.
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon: The smoky, crispy star that elevates the whole dish to another level.
How to Make Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This helps ensure that the potatoes won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze later on.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture will coat the potatoes and infuse them with flavor, creating the irresistible creamy texture that defines this Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe.
Step 3: Combine Potatoes and Other Ingredients
Add the diced russet potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and the majority of the bacon (save a little for topping) to the bowl. Stir everything together until the potatoes are thoroughly coated and the cheese is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the reserved bacon and any extra cheese you like on top. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook through and the flavors to meld beautifully. Then, remove the foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden, bubbly, and irresistible. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to let it set up perfectly.
How to Serve Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or extra green onions on top adds brightness and a fresh touch that contrasts perfectly with the richness of the casserole.
Side Dishes
This dish is a perfect partner to roasted meats like baked chicken, steak, or pork chops. It also complements fresh green salads or steamed veggies to balance the richness and round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch. Or layer it as part of a buffet with other southern-inspired dishes to wow your guests with a hearty, comforting spread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply cover your leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container, then refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy this delicious dish again without extra effort.
Freezing
If you want to keep Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe on hand, freezing works well too. Place the baked and cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to preserve moisture, for about 20 minutes or until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, microwave portions on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between to warm evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato?
Russet potatoes work best for this recipe due to their starchy texture, which absorbs flavors beautifully and becomes tender. However, Yukon Gold potatoes can be a tasty alternative if you prefer a creamier texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or substitute it with vegetarian bacon bits or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor without the meat.
Can I add other cheeses instead of cheddar?
Yes! Pepper Jack or a blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar can add a nice twist, offering a little kick or creaminess depending on your preference.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional. Leaving the skins on adds extra texture and nutrients, plus a rustic look, but make sure to wash and scrub them well before dicing.
How long will this recipe stay fresh after baking?
When properly stored in the fridge, Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe should remain fresh and tasty for about 3 days. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving again.
Final Thoughts
If you’re yearning for a comforting classic that brings cheesy, smoky, and creamy flavors all in one dish, this Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe is your new best friend. Easy to prepare, utterly satisfying, and loaded with flavor, it’s the perfect addition to any meal or gathering. I truly can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love just like I have!
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Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Mississippi Mud Potatoes is a comforting Southern-style cheesy potato casserole loaded with tender diced russet potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, green onions, and smoky bacon. This hearty side dish is baked to bubbly, golden perfection, making it a perfect complement for family dinners or holiday meals.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 6 cups diced russet potatoes (about 4 large), peeled if desired
Mix-ins
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Toppings
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare it for the casserole.
- Mix the creamy base: In a large bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir together until smooth and well incorporated.
- Combine ingredients: Add diced potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and most of the cooked bacon (reserve a small amount for topping) to the creamy mixture. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly coated and mixed.
- Transfer and spread: Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer for consistent cooking.
- Add toppings: Sprinkle the reserved bacon evenly over the top, and if desired, add a little extra shredded cheese to create a cheesy crust.
- Bake covered: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to allow the potatoes to cook through.
- Finish baking uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender, and the top is golden, bubbly, and slightly crisped.
- Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven to allow it to set slightly before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the creamy mixture or substitute pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.
- You can prepare the dish a day ahead by assembling it and refrigerating, then bake just before serving to save time.
