Mississippi Mud Potatoes

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor, Mississippi Mud Potatoes is the perfect choice! This Southern classic combines tender potatoes, smoky bacon, and gooey cheese all brought together in a creamy, savory sauce. It’s comfort food at its best, making it an ideal dish for family gatherings, potlucks, or any time you want to impress your guests with something delicious.

I was first introduced to Mississippi Mud Potatoes at a family reunion in the heart of Mississippi. The combination of flavors and textures immediately won me over. Every bite was a symphony of creamy, cheesy goodness with just the right amount of crunch from the bacon. I knew this dish had to become a regular in my cooking repertoire.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It pairs wonderfully with almost any main course, from grilled meats to roasted vegetables. Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time in the kitchen.

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Recipe Summary

Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a decadent side dish made with cubed potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy sauce that binds everything together. The dish is baked until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a golden crust on top that adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion.

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A Family Favorite

In our home, Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a go-to dish for Sunday dinners and holiday feasts. The kids love the cheesy, bacon-filled goodness, and it always brings smiles to the table. My husband often requests it as a side to his favorite grilled steak, and I’m more than happy to oblige!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Ultimate Comfort Food: Rich, creamy, and cheesy—this dish is pure comfort in every bite.
2. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, it’s a dish everyone will rave about.
3. Versatile: Pairs well with a wide variety of main dishes, from meat to vegetables.
4. Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe a breeze to prepare.
5. Leftovers are Amazing: If you have any leftovers, they reheat beautifully and are just as delicious the next day.

How to Make Mississippi Mud Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven

• Set the Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Potatoes

• Cook the Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are just tender but not falling apart, about 10-15 minutes. Drain and set aside.

3. Cook the Bacon

• Crisp the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Set aside.

4. Make the Sauce

• Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the sour cream, mayonnaise, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
• Add Cheese and Bacon: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, cooked bacon (reserve a little for topping), and chopped green onions. Mix until everything is well combined.

5. Assemble the Dish

• Combine with Potatoes: Add the cooked potatoes to the bowl with the sauce. Gently toss the potatoes until they are fully coated with the sauce mixture.
• Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
• Add Toppings: Sprinkle the top with the additional cheddar cheese and reserved bacon.

6. Bake

• Bake in the Oven: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

7. Serve

• Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with additional chopped green onions and parsley if desired. Serve warm.

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Tips for Perfect Mississippi Mud Potatoes

• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Boil the potatoes until just tender to avoid them falling apart when mixed with the sauce.
• Use Sharp Cheddar: The bold flavor of sharp cheddar cheese stands out better in this dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding the potatoes and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the dish a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

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Substitutions and Variations

• Swap Bacon for Ham: Use diced ham instead of bacon for a different flavor.
• Try Different Cheeses: Substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, Colby, or even Pepper Jack for a bit of spice.
• Add Veggies: Mix in some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.

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Make a Healthier Version

• Use Greek Yogurt: Replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Turkey Bacon: Substitute regular bacon with turkey bacon to cut down on fat.
• Reduce Cheese: Use half the amount of cheese, or opt for a reduced-fat version.

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Closing Thoughts

Mississippi Mud Potatoes are the ultimate side dish for those who love comfort food with a bit of Southern flair. The combination of creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese is simply irresistible. Whether you’re serving this dish at a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and enjoy a taste of the South right at your table!

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Categories: Side Dish, Comfort Food, Southern

Tags: Potatoes, Bacon, Cheesy, Comfort Food, Easy Recipes

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. They hold their shape well and add a buttery flavor.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance, cover it with foil, and refrigerate. Bake it just before serving.

4. Can I freeze Mississippi Mud Potatoes?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the dish. Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before baking.

5. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, omit the bacon or replace it with vegetarian bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.