Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a comforting, flavorful side dish that takes the humble potato to new heights. Inspired by the famous Mississippi Mud Cake, these potatoes are loaded with all the delicious elements you love—cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions—making them a rich, indulgent treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a potluck, or just want to spice up your regular dinner routine, Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to be the star of the table.

This recipe is incredibly versatile and can be made in a variety of ways to suit your tastes, but no matter how you prepare them, they always deliver a flavorful punch. With layers of cheesy, creamy goodness and a crispy topping, these potatoes are more than just a side dish—they could very well be the highlight of the meal. Paired with meats like grilled chicken or steak, or served as a standalone dish, Mississippi Mud Potatoes never fail to impress.

Why You’ll Love Mississippi Mud Potatoes

• Hearty and Satisfying: These potatoes are loaded with cheese, bacon, sour cream, and butter, making them a rich and satisfying dish that can easily be a main course for a lighter meal.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of creamy mashed potatoes with savory bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions creates a flavor-packed bite in every mouthful. The crispy, cheesy topping takes these potatoes to the next level.
• Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything too fancy to make Mississippi Mud Potatoes. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s a holiday dinner, a backyard BBQ, or a casual family meal, Mississippi Mud Potatoes fit in beautifully with any gathering. They’re easy to make in large batches, and everyone loves them.
• Customizable: You can add your personal touch by adjusting the seasonings, adding different kinds of cheese, or topping the potatoes with other ingredients like jalapeños or extra bacon.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 300-350 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredient variations.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300-350 kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Protein: 7g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

Ingredients

For the Mississippi Mud Potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes (peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk
• 1/4 cup butter (unsalted)
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6 strips)
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 3 strips)
• 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

Special Equipment

While making Mississippi Mud Potatoes doesn’t require specialized tools, there are a few pieces of equipment that will make the process smoother and more efficient:

1. Large Pot: A large pot is essential for boiling the potatoes. You’ll need enough space for the potatoes to cook evenly in water.
2. Potato Masher or Mixer: A potato masher or electric mixer will help you mash the potatoes until they’re perfectly creamy. Using an electric mixer can save you time and result in a smoother texture, but a potato masher works just fine for a chunkier texture.
3. Baking Dish: You’ll need a 9×13-inch baking dish (or a similarly sized casserole dish) to bake the potatoes. This ensures they cook evenly and gives you space to add your cheesy topping.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements for ingredients like butter, cheese, and sour cream ensure the perfect balance of flavors in the mashed potatoes.
5. Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is useful for cutting the potatoes into uniform cubes and chopping the green onions and bacon.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Start by peeling the russet potatoes and cutting them into 1-inch cubes. The smaller the pieces, the quicker they will cook. Place the cut potatoes in a large pot and fill it with cold water, covering the potatoes completely.

Bring the pot of water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

2. Mash the Potatoes

Add the sour cream, heavy cream (or milk), and butter to the cooked potatoes. Using a potato masher or an electric mixer, mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can mash them less thoroughly. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding garlic powder, salt, and pepper as needed.

Once the potatoes are mashed, fold in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions. Stir everything together until well combined.

3. Transfer to a Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent the potatoes from sticking. Transfer the mashed potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.

4. Prepare the Topping

For the topping, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mashed potatoes. Then, sprinkle the crumbled bacon and sliced green onions on top. Finally, drizzle the melted butter over the entire dish to give it a beautiful golden crust while baking.

5. Bake the Potatoes

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. The cheese should be melted, and the potatoes should be slightly crisp on top, creating the signature “mud” effect with a cheesy, bacon-studded crust.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Remove the Mississippi Mud Potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional green onions or bacon if desired. Serve the potatoes hot as a side dish, and watch your guests go back for seconds!

Tips for Perfect Mississippi Mud Potatoes

• Use Starchy Potatoes: For the best texture, use russet potatoes, as they are starchy and mash well. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or yellow potatoes, as they can become too dense and won’t give you that fluffy mashed potato texture.
• Don’t Skip the Topping: The crispy, cheesy topping is what gives Mississippi Mud Potatoes their signature appeal. Make sure to add the extra cheese, bacon, and butter on top for that deliciously crispy finish.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the mashed potatoes up to a day in advance. Simply make the potatoes, place them in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just add the topping and bake as directed. This is a great time-saver, especially for holiday meals or large gatherings.
• Add Some Heat: If you enjoy spicy foods, feel free to add a bit of hot sauce, jalapeños, or crushed red pepper flakes to the potato mixture for an extra kick.
• Adjust the Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. While sharp cheddar is the classic choice, you could also try using a blend of cheddar and mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicier version.

Variations of Mississippi Mud Potatoes

• Loaded Baked Potato Version: Make the potatoes extra indulgent by adding extra toppings like sour cream, chives, or extra cheese after baking. This transforms the dish into a loaded baked potato casserole.
• Spicy Mississippi Mud Potatoes: Add some heat by incorporating jalapeños or spicy sriracha sauce into the potato mixture before baking. Top the potatoes with sliced chili peppers for added spice.
• Vegetarian Mississippi Mud Potatoes: Omit the bacon and substitute it with sautéed mushrooms or extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a vegetarian version of this dish.
• BBQ Mississippi Mud Potatoes: Add a smoky twist to the potatoes by incorporating some BBQ sauce into the mashed potatoes and topping them with pulled pork or shredded rotisserie chicken. This variation is perfect for BBQ lovers.
• Cheesy Bacon Ranch Version: Mix in ranch seasoning with the mashed potatoes and top with extra bacon and cheese for a cheesy, ranch-flavored version of the classic recipe.

Storage and Shelf Life

Mississippi Mud Potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but they can be stored for later. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the potatoes in a baking dish and cover with foil. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the potatoes. Allow them to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frozen potatoes can last for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and then bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Mississippi Mud Potatoes pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some great options to serve alongside them:

• Grilled or Roasted Meat: Mississippi Mud Potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken, steak, or pork chops. The rich and cheesy potatoes complement the savory flavors of the meat.
• Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the potatoes. A simple mixed greens salad or a coleslaw would work wonderfully.
• Vegetable Sides: Pair the potatoes with roasted or sautéed vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts. The slight bitterness of the vegetables offers a nice contrast to the creamy potatoes.
• Cornbread: Serve Mississippi Mud Potatoes with a side of warm, buttery cornbread for a down-home Southern meal that everyone will love.

Print

Conclusion

Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a decadent, comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served at a family dinner, holiday meal, or potluck, these potatoes are sure to be a hit. With their cheesy, bacon-filled flavor and crispy, golden topping, they’re a dish that will have everyone coming back for more. Easy to prepare and customize to suit your tastes, Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a must-try recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy these creamy, cheesy potatoes—they’re a true crowd-pleaser!