Mississippi Mud Potatoes

This cheesy potato bake has been my Sunday dinner savior for years, delivering creamy comfort food that disappears before I can even suggest seconds. The combination of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and tender potatoes creates an irresistible side dish that often steals the spotlight from the main course.

I first made these Mississippi Mud Potatoes for a neighborhood potluck when I had no idea what to bring. Three people asked for the recipe before the night ended, and now it's requested at every family function we host.

• Potatoes choose starchy varieties like russets for the fluffiest texture inside while maintaining structure
• Cheddar cheese sharp or extra sharp provides the best flavor contrast with the creamy base
• Bacon the smoky richness infuses the entire dish with savory depth
• Garlic salt adds perfect seasoning throughout without needing to add fresh garlic
• Mayonnaise creates the creamy binding that transforms into a luscious sauce while baking
• Green onions provides fresh brightness that balances the rich ingredients

How To Make Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Prepare the potatoes

Peel and dice potatoes into uniform bite sized pieces about ¾ inch cubes. Consistency in size ensures they cook evenly throughout the dish. No need to boil them first as they will cook perfectly in the oven.

Cook the bacon

Fry bacon until properly crisp since it will soften slightly when mixed into the dish. Drain on paper towels to remove excess grease. Once cooled, crumble into small pieces to distribute the smoky flavor throughout every bite.

Create the mixture

In a large bowl combine all ingredients ensuring the mayonnaise thoroughly coats everything. This step is crucial as the mayo both binds the ingredients and creates the signature creamy texture while baking. Make sure to reserve a small handful of cheese to sprinkle on top for that perfect golden crust.

Bake to perfection

Transfer to a baking dish and spread evenly to ensure consistent cooking. The long bake time at a moderate temperature allows the potatoes to cook through while developing rich flavor without burning the cheese. The dish is ready when the top is golden brown and a fork easily pierces the potatoes.

My favorite thing about this recipe is how the green onions add just the right amount of freshness against the richness of the other ingredients. The first time I made this for my father in law, a notoriously picky eater, he went back for thirds and asked if I could teach his wife how to make it. That moment cemented this dish in our family recipe collection forever.

Perfect Pairings

These cheesy potatoes complement almost any protein, but they shine especially alongside grilled meats. The smoky char from a perfectly grilled steak or chicken breast creates a beautiful flavor contrast with the creamy, cheesy potatoes. For a complete meal that will have everyone raving, add a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the potatoes.

Storage Solutions

These potatoes hold up remarkably well as leftovers. Store any remaining portion in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for about 20 minutes, removing the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top again. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can make the texture inconsistent, though in a pinch it will work just fine.

Easy Variations

This versatile recipe welcomes creative adaptations to suit your taste. Try swapping half the cheddar for pepper jack to add a spicy kick, or mix in a cup of sautéed mushrooms for an earthier flavor profile. For a more substantial one dish meal, stir in 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken before baking. During summer months, adding fresh corn kernels and diced bell peppers creates a garden fresh version that pairs beautifully with grilled foods.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare Mississippi Mud Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the potato mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake as directed, though you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking straight from the refrigerator.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

Greek yogurt or sour cream can work as substitutes for mayonnaise, though they will alter the flavor slightly. For a lighter version, you can use half mayonnaise and half Greek yogurt.

→ Can I use pre-cooked potatoes to save time?

Yes, you can use par-boiled potatoes to reduce the baking time. Boil the diced potatoes for about 5-7 minutes until slightly tender but not fully cooked, then proceed with the recipe. This will cut the baking time to approximately 45-60 minutes.

→ What type of potatoes work best for this dish?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best. Russets will give you a fluffier texture, while Yukon Golds provide a creamier, buttery result. Red potatoes can also work but may hold their shape more during baking.

→ What main dishes pair well with Mississippi Mud Potatoes?

These potatoes pair beautifully with grilled or roasted meats like steak, chicken, or pork chops. They're also excellent alongside meatloaf, baked ham, or as part of a holiday feast. For a lighter meal, serve with a simple green salad.

→ Can I add other vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, broccoli florets, or corn kernels make great additions. Add them raw before baking, and they'll cook along with the potatoes. Just be mindful that vegetables with high water content may release moisture during baking.