Imagine all the hearty, comforting flavors of a perfectly loaded baked potato, but elevated into an incredibly easy-to-make casserole. That’s exactly what Mississippi Mud Potatoes deliver. This dish takes simple ingredients – tender potatoes, savory bacon, sharp cheese, and aromatic onions – and bakes them together to create a side dish that’s not just delicious, but truly unforgettable. It’s so effortless to prepare, and the flavor? Absolutely out of this world!
Mississippi Mud Potatoes: A Cheesy, Comforting Side Dish Sensation
The name “Mississippi Mud Potatoes” conjures images of rich, earthy deliciousness, and this dish certainly lives up to the hype, even if its origin remains a delightful mystery. Much like its famous counterparts – from the indulgent Mississippi Sin Dip to the slow-cooked perfection of Mississippi Pot Roast, and many more beloved Mississippi recipes – these potatoes are guaranteed to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection. Whatever the story behind their catchy name, these roasted potatoes, generously loaded with crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions, are destined to be your new go-to side dish for any occasion. They offer a unique blend of textures and tastes, making them a fantastic alternative to traditional baked potatoes or more complicated casseroles.
We’ve all had those moments when a dish is so good, you just can’t get enough. Mississippi Mud Potatoes consistently generate that kind of excitement. Here’s a testament to their irresistible appeal:
“My husband devoured these! So good thank you!”
– Lisa
This kind of feedback is common because the combination of savory, cheesy, and tender potatoes hits all the right notes for comfort food lovers. Whether you’re serving a family dinner, hosting a potluck, or just looking for a hearty side, these potatoes will not disappoint.
Frequently Asked Questions About Mississippi Mud Potatoes
While they aren’t as overtly creamy as some traditional potato casseroles like my Baked Potato Casserole or classic Funeral Potatoes, these Mississippi Mud Potatoes boast a delightful hint of creaminess from the mayonnaise and melted cheddar. The texture leans more towards tender, well-seasoned roasted potato pieces rather than a thick, uniform cream. This allows the individual flavors of the bacon, onion, and garlic to really shine through, offering a balanced and incredibly satisfying experience.
For the absolute best flavor and texture, we highly recommend using fresh bacon that you cook and crumble yourself. The rendered bacon fat can add an extra layer of richness to the potatoes, and freshly cooked bacon provides a superior crispness. However, if you’re looking to save time or simply have precooked bacon on hand, feel free to use it. After all, your kitchen, your rules! Just ensure it’s crumbled into small pieces to distribute evenly throughout the casserole.
If you love a little heat, there are several fantastic ways to kick up the spice in your Mississippi Mud Potatoes. Consider stirring in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other seasonings, or add about 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a subtle but noticeable warmth. For those who enjoy fresh heat, finely diced jalapeños (either with or without seeds, depending on your preference for spiciness) would be an excellent addition. You can also drizzle a bit of your favorite hot sauce over the top just before serving, or even mix a small amount into the mayonnaise for an all-over spicy kick.
Using frozen diced potatoes can be a convenient shortcut, and it shouldn’t pose an issue for this recipe. Aim for roughly the same amount as specified for fresh potatoes – for example, a 2-pound bag will work perfectly. There’s generally no need to thaw them first, as frozen diced potatoes are typically cut quite small and should cook through in a similar timeframe to fresh, especially when covered in the oven. Just make sure to combine them well with the other ingredients.
These flavorful potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of main courses. They are particularly excellent alongside classic American comfort foods. Here are some fantastic serving suggestions:
- BBQ Pork Chops: The tangy sweetness of BBQ complements the rich potatoes perfectly.
- Grilled Bacon Cheeseburgers: A classic pairing for a hearty meal.
- Air Fryer Steak: For a quick yet elegant weeknight dinner.
- Crock Pot Pork Loin: A tender, slow-cooked meat that makes a perfect companion.
- Roasted Chicken or Turkey: A traditional choice for Sunday dinner or holiday gatherings.
- Meatloaf: The ultimate comfort food duo.
- Hot Dogs or Sausages: For a casual, family-friendly meal.
Leftover Mississippi Mud Potatoes should be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated promptly once completely cooled. They will keep well in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. To reheat, simply scoop a portion into a microwave-safe dish and warm in 30-45 second intervals, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warm, covering with foil if they start to dry out. We do not recommend freezing this dish, as the texture of the potatoes and mayonnaise can become somewhat grainy and undesirable once defrosted.
Essential Ingredients for Your Mississippi Mud Potatoes Casserole
This recipe calls for a straightforward list of ingredients, most of which you likely already have on hand. Each component plays a vital role in creating the irresistible flavor and texture of this beloved potato casserole. For precise measurements, please refer to the full recipe card below.
- Yellow Potatoes: We recommend using about 3 pounds of yellow potatoes, peeled and uniformly diced. Yukon Gold potatoes are an excellent choice because they hold their shape beautifully during baking and offer a naturally creamy, buttery flavor that complements the dish. Alternatively, Russet or Idaho potatoes can also be used; they will yield a slightly fluffier texture. Dicing them evenly ensures consistent cooking.
- Yellow Onion: One small yellow onion, finely diced, provides a foundational aromatic sweetness that mellows wonderfully as it bakes. You could also opt for a Vidalia onion for an even sweeter, milder flavor if preferred.
- Fresh Garlic: Two teaspoons of minced fresh garlic are crucial for adding depth and a pungent, savory kick that truly makes a difference in this recipe. While jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch, we promise that fresh garlic will elevate the overall taste profile significantly.
- Bacon: One pound of regular-cut bacon, cooked until crispy and then crumbled, is essential. The savory, smoky notes of the bacon permeate the entire dish, and its crispy texture adds a delightful contrast. While thick-cut bacon can be used, regular-cut typically crumbles more easily and distributes better. Finely diced cooked ham can also serve as a delicious substitute if you don’t have bacon.
- Mayonnaise: One cup of good quality mayonnaise acts as the binder and provides a rich, creamy base for the potatoes and cheese. It contributes to the casserole’s moistness and subtle tang. If you enjoy a bit more zest, you can substitute half of the mayonnaise with sour cream for an added tangy flavor.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A cup of shredded cheddar cheese brings that quintessential cheesy goodness and a sharp flavor that pairs perfectly with potatoes and bacon. Don’t hesitate to get creative here! You could swap it for Pepper Jack for a spicy twist, Mozzarella for a milder, stretchier melt, or even a blend of your favorite cheeses like Colby Jack or Monterey Jack for a unique profile.
- Seasonings: Onion Powder, Garlic Powder, Salt, and Black Pepper: Even with fresh onion and garlic in the mix, a teaspoon each of onion powder and garlic powder adds another layer of concentrated, savory flavor that ties everything together. Salt and freshly ground black pepper (about 1/2 teaspoon of each, adjusted to taste) are vital for balancing and enhancing all the other ingredients.
- Green Onions: Two green onions, thinly sliced, are used as a fresh, vibrant garnish. They provide a mild oniony bite and a pop of color that brightens the rich casserole.
How to Prepare Perfect Mississippi Mud Potatoes
This recipe is designed for simplicity without compromising on flavor. Follow these easy steps to create a truly delicious and comforting potato casserole:
- Prepare Your Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. This step is important to prevent the potatoes from sticking and ensures an easy cleanup.
- Combine the Ingredients: In the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish (or a large mixing bowl for easier stirring), combine the peeled and diced yellow potatoes, diced yellow onion, minced fresh garlic, cooked and crumbled bacon, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Thoroughly Mix: Stir all the ingredients together very well. You want to ensure that every potato piece is coated with the creamy mayonnaise, cheese, and seasonings, and that the bacon and onion are evenly distributed. This ensures consistent flavor in every bite. If mixing in a bowl, transfer the mixture to your baking dish after combining.
- Bake to Perfection: Cover the baking pan tightly with aluminum foil. This helps to steam the potatoes, ensuring they become wonderfully tender without drying out. Bake for approximately 1 hour. The potatoes should be fork-tender when done. If they are still firm, continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, checking periodically.
Garnish and Serve: Once the potatoes are tender, remove the foil. If desired, you can broil for a few minutes to get a slightly crispy top, but watch carefully to prevent burning. Immediately before serving, sprinkle generously with the sliced green onions. The fresh green onions add a beautiful color, a touch of freshness, and a mild oniony zest that cuts through the richness of the casserole. We recommend giving the casserole a good stir before dishing it out, as this helps to evenly distribute the melted cheese and bacon throughout.
Why You’ll Love This Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe
There are countless reasons why this potato casserole deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. First and foremost, it’s incredibly adaptable. You can easily tweak the cheese, add different herbs, or even introduce other vegetables like diced bell peppers to suit your family’s preferences. It’s also a fantastic make-ahead dish, perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining. Assemble it in advance, cover, and refrigerate, then pop it in the oven an hour before you’re ready to serve. This casserole truly embodies comfort food at its finest – warm, hearty, and full of satisfying flavors that appeal to everyone.
Unlike individual baked potatoes that can take up a lot of oven space and time to prepare, this casserole simplifies the process significantly. All the delicious toppings are mixed right into the potatoes, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. It’s the ideal choice for potlucks, holiday meals, or any gathering where you want to impress without added stress.
Craving More Delicious Recipes?
If you’re a fan of comforting, flavorful dishes, especially those starring potatoes or inspired by Southern hospitality, you’ll love exploring these other fantastic recipes. From creamy casseroles to crispy roasted delights, there’s something here for every potato enthusiast. And if you enjoy the “Mississippi” twist, we have more of those too!
- Twice Baked Potato Casserole
- Funeral Potatoes
- Crock Pot Scalloped Potatoes
- Crispy Parmesan Potatoes
- Cowboy Butter Potatoes
- Southern Fried Potatoes
- Crunchy Roasted Potatoes
- Bacon Cheddar Potatoes
- Scalloped Potatoes
- Crock Pot Swamp Potatoes
- Crock Pot Mississippi Roast Chicken
- Crock Pot Mississippi Pork Roast
- Crock Pot Mississippi Pork Chops
- Crock Pot Mississippi Meatloaf
Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Diced potatoes with cheese, bacon, onions, and seasonings all roasted together to create a supremely flavorful and comforting casserole.
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Cook Time: 1 hour |
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Ingredients
- 3 pounds yellow potatoes, peeled and diced (like Yukon gold, Russet, or Idaho)
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 teaspoons minced fresh garlic
- 1 pound bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite blend)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste (approximately 1/2 teaspoon each)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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In the prepared baking dish, combine the peeled and diced yellow potatoes, diced small yellow onion, minced garlic, cooked and crumbled bacon, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt and pepper.
- Stir all the ingredients together thoroughly until everything is well combined and the potatoes are evenly coated. (If it’s easier, you can mix these ingredients in a large bowl first, then transfer them to the baking dish.)
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Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 1 hour, or until the potatoes are completely tender when pierced with a fork.
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Remove the foil and sprinkle the top with the sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting casserole. Note: We like to stir the casserole a bit just before serving to ensure every spoonful gets a delicious mix of all the ingredients.
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Notes
- Please refer to the “Frequently Asked Questions” and “Essential Ingredients” sections above for common substitutions, variations, and answers to typical questions regarding this recipe.
- For an extra crispy top, after removing the foil, you can place the casserole under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 44g |
Protein: 19g |
Fat: 65g |
Sodium: 876mg |
Fiber: 6g |
Sugar: 3g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used, and cooking methods.
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