If you’re looking for a heartwarming side dish that combines creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavors all in one, the Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish layers diced russet potatoes with a luscious mixture of sour cream, mayonnaise, and generous amounts of cheddar cheese, all topped off with crispy bacon bites. It’s a true comfort food classic that brings out rich textures and mouthwatering taste in every forkful, making it a favorite for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you want to indulge in something truly satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a dish this delicious, the ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential to bring out the signature flavors and creamy texture of the Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe. Each component plays its part, from the hearty russet potatoes that hold their shape, to the savory bacon that adds a delightful crunch and smoky finish.
- 6 cups diced russet potatoes: These starchy potatoes provide the perfect soft-yet-firm base that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tang and creaminess that melds beautifully with the other ingredients.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Works alongside the sour cream to create a silky, rich coating for the potatoes.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a subtle depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Offers a gentle sweetness and umami punch.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat that balances the creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning to pull all the flavors together.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: This gooey, sharp cheese gives the dish its iconic cheesy pull and golden top.
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions: Brings fresh color and a crisp bite.
- 1 pound bacon (cooked and crumbled): Delivers crispy, smoky bursts that elevate every bite.
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional): For extra richness and a luscious finish on top.
How to Make Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it nice and hot for baking. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, which is the perfect size for this casserole, ensuring the potatoes won’t stick and the edges will brown beautifully.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Coating
In a large bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This mixture forms the rich, flavorful sauce that coats every piece of potato, making the casserole irresistibly creamy and tasty.
Step 3: Add Potatoes, Cheese, Onions, and Bacon
Now toss in the diced russet potatoes with 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and half of the crumbled bacon. Stir everything gently until the potatoes are evenly coated with the creamy mixture, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 4: Bake Covered
Transfer your potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Dot the surface with butter if you’re using it to add that next-level richness. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes; this step lets the potatoes cook through and the flavors meld perfectly.
Step 5: Add Toppings and Finish Baking
Carefully remove the foil, then sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon on top, building a golden, bubbly crust. Bake uncovered for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, give the casserole about 5 minutes to rest. This short wait allows the dish to set up just enough for easier serving without losing any of its ooey-gooey charm.
How to Serve Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra chopped green onions or fresh parsley adds a pop of color that looks bright on the plate and introduces a fresh note to complement the richness of the potatoes. For a little extra indulgence, a dollop of sour cream on top never goes wrong.
Side Dishes
This hearty potato casserole pairs wonderfully with lighter mains such as grilled chicken, pan-seared fish, or a crisp green salad. Its rich, cheesy profile also fits perfectly alongside classic barbecue or roasted meats, making your meal feel complete and well-balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd, bake the Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe in individual ramekins for personalized servings that look charming and keep the cheesy topping wonderfully crispy. Another fun idea is to serve it buffet-style, letting guests scoop out their own portions, piled high with toppings and garnishes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent choice for quick weeknight meals the next day or two.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Cool completely, then wrap tightly with foil and place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and bubbly again, about 20 to 30 minutes. This helps maintain the creamy texture and crispy bacon topping much better than microwaving.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are preferred because they hold their shape and absorb flavors well, but you can use Yukon Gold for a creamier texture if you like. Just avoid waxy potatoes, as they might get too mushy.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or replace it with a smoky vegetarian bacon alternative. You can also add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to give it that classic smoky flavor without the meat.
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great lighter alternative that still provides tang and creaminess while reducing calories and fat. Just keep the same measurement for a seamless swap.
How spicy is the Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe?
The recipe is mildly seasoned for a family-friendly flavor with just black pepper as the heat element. You can add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper if you prefer more kick.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole the day before, keep it covered in the refrigerator, and bake it fresh when ready. This is a fantastic time-saver for busy days or entertaining guests.
Final Thoughts
The Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe is that irresistible comfort food gem that brings people together with every creamy, cheesy, bacon-studded bite. If you want a side dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate and fills your kitchen with amazing smells, this recipe is your new go-to. Don’t hesitate to try it out—you’ll soon find it’s impossible to serve just once!
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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 decadent and comforting cheesy potato casserole loaded with tender diced russet potatoes, creamy sour cream and mayonnaise, sharp cheddar cheese, savory bacon, and a hint of garlic and onion powder. This baked side dish is perfect for holiday dinners or cozy family meals, offering a rich, hearty flavor and a golden, bubbly cheese topping.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 cups diced russet potatoes (about 4 large)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons butter (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix the Creamy Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to form a smooth seasoning base.
- Add Potatoes and Mix-ins: Fold in the diced potatoes, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and half of the crumbled bacon. Mix thoroughly until every piece of potato is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Transfer and Add Butter: Spoon the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish. If using, dot the top with 2 tablespoons of butter for an extra rich flavor layer.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. This steam-bakes the potatoes ensuring they become tender.
- Add Toppings and Finish Baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly, and the potatoes are fully cooked.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow it to set slightly for easier serving and enhanced flavor melding.
Notes
- You can prepare this dish a day in advance and bake it just before serving for convenience.
- For a smoky or spicy twist, add a dash of smoked paprika or your favorite hot sauce into the creamy mixture.
- To make it lighter, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream, reducing fat content while keeping creaminess.
