Mississippi Mud Potatoes

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When I say this dish is a showstopper, I mean it. Mississippi Mud Potatoes are everything you love about comfort food baked into one bubbling, golden, cheesy tray of indulgence. I first made it on a cozy Sunday when I had a fridge full of leftover bacon, a half-bag of shredded cheddar, and a craving for something that would warm the soul. From the moment the skillet hit the oven, the smell wrapped around the kitchen like a hug.

The name says it all—these potatoes are as rich, layered, and irresistible as the Mississippi mud itself. There’s something almost nostalgic about them, maybe it’s the buttery potato base or the creamy, gooey mixture of sour cream and cheese that turns every bite into an event. I always go back for seconds, and honestly, thirds. It’s impossible not to.

I love how this recipe has become a go-to in my home. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but hearty and indulgent enough to serve during the holidays or at any potluck. Whether I’m cooking for two or ten, Mississippi Mud Potatoes always deliver that wow factor.

Why You’ll Love This Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe

This recipe is what happens when you take comfort food to its ultimate form. The potatoes come out perfectly roasted, tender in the middle with just the right amount of crisp at the edges. The sour cream and cheese melt down into a velvety sauce, blending with the smoky bacon and punch of green onions for an unbelievably satisfying bite. It’s gluten-free, crowd-friendly, and endlessly adaptable to what you have on hand. If you need a dish that gets people talking and always leaves an empty dish behind, this is it.

Ingredients

To bring out the full flavor of Mississippi Mud Potatoes, every ingredient plays its part beautifully. The key player, of course, is the russet potato. It holds up incredibly well to baking and absorbs all the delicious flavor from the other ingredients.

Sour cream adds a tangy creaminess that makes the dish irresistibly smooth and rich. Sharp cheddar cheese brings boldness and gooey texture, while cooked bacon delivers that savory crunch and smoky depth. Green onions brighten up the richness with a bit of sharp freshness.

Butter melts into everything, pulling the whole dish together with golden perfection, and salt and pepper keep the flavor balance in check.

How to Make Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Wash, peel, and dice your russet potatoes into small bite-sized cubes. This helps them cook evenly and soak up more of the creamy, cheesy goodness.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Fry the bacon until it’s crispy, then set it aside to cool. Crumble it once it’s cool enough to handle. Save a spoonful of bacon grease if you’d like an extra layer of flavor.

Step 3: Mix the Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, salt, and pepper. Stir in the diced potatoes and toss to coat every piece.

Step 4: Layer and Bake

Pour the creamy potato mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with crumbled bacon and the rest of the cheddar cheese. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for 45 minutes.

Step 5: Final Broil

Remove the foil and switch the oven to broil for about 5 minutes, or until the top turns bubbly and golden brown. Sprinkle with chopped green onions right before serving.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you want to switch things up or accommodate specific dietary needs, Mississippi Mud Potatoes can be easily adjusted. Instead of russet potatoes, you could try red potatoes or Yukon golds for a creamier texture. If you’re going meatless, simply leave out the bacon or use plant-based alternatives.

Cheddar is a classic, but pepper jack adds a spicy kick, and mozzarella makes it even gooier. Greek yogurt can substitute sour cream if you want a bit of extra protein and a slightly lighter profile. Even a handful of diced bell peppers or mushrooms can add another layer of flavor.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Mississippi Mud Potatoes are versatile enough to shine on their own or play a perfect supporting role. I often serve them with grilled or roasted meats like BBQ chicken, smoked sausage, or pork chops. They also pair beautifully with a light side salad or green beans to balance out the richness.

If you’re serving them at a potluck, they sit well on a table alongside dishes like deviled eggs or cheesy baked Tennessee onions. And yes, I’ve even had them with brunch—they pair surprisingly well with scrambled eggs and fruit salad.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? Lucky you. Store Mississippi Mud Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

They also reheat nicely in the microwave, though the oven does a better job of preserving that crispy cheese topping. I wouldn’t recommend freezing this dish, as the texture of the potatoes tends to change.

FAQs

Can I make Mississippi Mud Potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything in advance and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to your bake time straight from the fridge.

Can I use frozen potatoes for Mississippi Mud Potatoes?

Yes, frozen diced potatoes work well in a pinch. Just make sure to thaw them and pat them dry before mixing them with the creamy base.

How do I make Mississippi Mud Potatoes vegetarian?

Skip the bacon or use your favorite meat-free substitute. You can even add some smoked paprika to mimic the flavor bacon would normally give.

What cheese works best in Mississippi Mud Potatoes?

Sharp cheddar is my favorite, but feel free to experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or a mix of your favorites for a unique twist.

Can I double the Mississippi Mud Potatoes recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Just use a larger baking dish and plan to add about 10-15 more minutes to the baking time. Keep an eye on the doneness of the potatoes.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If hearty and indulgent sides are your thing, then you need to try the Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions. It’s another Southern-inspired dish that takes a simple ingredient and transforms it into a crave-worthy masterpiece. Or if you’re in the mood for a creamy main to serve alongside your potatoes, the Easy Creamy Polenta Shrimp Recipe brings that same comforting texture with a little coastal flair.

For something sweet to follow, the Blueberry Cheesecake Heaven Rolls are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t let this one get lost in the scroll! Pin this Mississippi Mud Potatoes recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s easy to find the next time you need a knockout side. You can also share it with friends and family on Facebook, Instagram, or wherever you swap recipes. Trust me, one taste and they’ll be asking you to bring it to every gathering!

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