Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a rich, cheesy, and creamy potato dish that is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or as a comforting side dish. This casserole-style recipe gets its name from the “muddy” texture of the potatoes when combined with melted cheese, sour cream, and crispy bacon. The dish has a wonderful balance of creaminess, saltiness, and a crispy golden crust on top. It pairs well with grilled meats, barbecue, or can even be enjoyed as a standalone meal.
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced (about 4-5 cups)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Toppings
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (optional)
- ½ cup crushed Ritz crackers or panko breadcrumbs (for added crunch)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small, bite-sized cubes.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to form a smooth mixture.
- Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese to the mixture, stirring until evenly combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Gently fold in the parboiled potatoes, ensuring that they are evenly coated with the cheesy sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top, followed by the crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.
Step 4: Bake
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
- If desired, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes to create an extra crispy topping.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Mississippi Mud Potatoes as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, barbecue ribs, or roasted vegetables.
- This dish is also great as a stand-alone meal, topped with extra cheese or a fried egg for added richness.
Calories and Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Note: Approximate values based on 6 servings.
- Calories: ~400-450 per serving
- Protein: ~10g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fat: ~30g
- Sodium: ~500mg
- Fiber: ~2g
Tips for the Best Mississippi Mud Potatoes
✅ Choose the Right Potatoes – Russet potatoes work best because they have a fluffy texture when baked. Yukon Golds can also be used for a creamier consistency.
✅ Make Ahead Friendly – You can assemble this dish a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it when needed.
✅ Customize It! – Add diced ham, jalapeños, or different cheeses (like Pepper Jack or Gouda) for a unique twist.
✅ Crispy Topping Hack – If you want an even crispier topping, toss the crackers or breadcrumbs in a little melted butter before sprinkling them on top.
Mississippi Mud Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with crispy bacon and a golden crust. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just as a delicious weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite! 🍽️😋