Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Mississippi Mud Potatoes bring all the cozy flavors of a loaded baked potato into one easy casserole dish. This cheesy, baconfilled comfort food has become a favorite side that pairs perfectly with everything from grilled meats to weeknight dinners. It’s simple to prepare but delivers a rich blend of tastes and textures that always impresses.

I remember making this dish for the first time when we had friends over unexpectedly. It was a hit and has since become a regular request for family dinners and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

• Yellow potatoes: peeled and diced, I like Yukon gold for their creamy texture but Russets work great too
• Yellow onion: adds sweetness and depth Vidalia onions are a good mild choice but any yellow onion works
• Fresh garlic: essential for authentic flavor, minced fresh garlic makes a big difference over jarred
• Bacon: regular cut preferred for the perfect crispiness and flavor, but finely diced ham can be a fun twist
• Mayonnaise: brings creaminess and moisture swapping half with sour cream adds tang if you like
• Shredded cheddar cheese: sharp or mild depending on your preference you can mix cheeses like Pepper Jack or Mozzarella for variety
• Onion powder and garlic powder: layering the onion and garlic flavors
• Salt and pepper: to season and enhance all ingredients
• Green onions: sprinkled on top for a fresh, bright finish

Instructions

Sauté Preparation:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly coat a 9x13inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to ensure your potatoes won't stick and cleanup is easier later.

Mix the Ingredients:

Place the diced potatoes, chopped yellow onion, minced garlic, cooked bacon pieces, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper all into the baking dish. You can mix everything thoroughly right in the dish or combine in a bowl before transferring.

Bake Covered:

Cover the casserole tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and bake in the preheated oven for one hour or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Finishing Touch:

Remove from the oven and scatter sliced green onions over the top. For an extra creamy texture, gently stir the casserole before serving, mixing the melted cheese and bacon evenly.

My favorite part of this dish is the combination of creamy cheese with smoky bacon and that fresh pop from the green onions. It reminds me of family dinners where everyone lingers at the table sharing stories over heaping plates of this delicious casserole.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within four to five days to keep flavors fresh. Reheat gently in short microwave bursts to prevent drying out. I do not recommend freezing this dish because potatoes’ texture can become grainy when thawed.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have fresh yellow onions, white onions work well although the flavor will be sharper. Bacon can be swapped for finely diced ham for a different taste or to reduce some fat. Mix up the cheeses by adding Pepper Jack or a little mozzarella for a gooier texture. Mayonnaise can be partially replaced by sour cream to introduce a hint of tang.

Serving Suggestions

This goes wonderfully with BBQ pork chops, grilled bacon cheeseburgers, or air fryer steak. You can also serve it alongside a simple green salad for a balance of freshness.

Give this casserole a try for your next family meal. It’s easy and endlessly satisfying.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Are these potatoes creamy?

These potatoes have a hint of creaminess from the mayonnaise but are more hearty and cheesy than smooth and creamy like traditional casseroles.

→ Can I use precooked bacon?

Fresh bacon is recommended for the best texture and flavor, though precooked bacon can be used if needed.

→ How can I add spice to this dish?

Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce to give the potatoes a spicy kick.

→ Is it okay to use frozen diced potatoes?

Frozen diced potatoes can be used without thawing, but adjust the quantity slightly if needed; cooking time remains similar.

→ What dishes pair well with Mississippi Mud Potatoes?

They complement BBQ pork chops, grilled bacon cheeseburgers, air fryer steak, and crock pot pork loin wonderfully.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, reheating gradually in the microwave. Freezing is not recommended.