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These Mississippi Mud Potatoes bring together crispy edges and creamy insides with rich cheese and savory bacon. Perfect as a side dish for holidays, potlucks, or even a comforting weeknight dinner, this casserole offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that never disappoint.
I first made these during a family gathering and they quickly became a requested dish every holiday. The combination of gooey cheese and crispy bacon edges is a winner every time.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Six cups of peeled and diced potatoes: offer the hearty base essential for a comforting casserole—Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for creaminess and structure
- One cup of shredded cheddar cheese: adds sharp flavor and melty texture; choose a good quality sharp cheddar for depth
- Three quarters cup of mayonnaise: gives richness and helps bind ingredients together; Greek yogurt provides a lighter alternative with tanginess
- One cup of cooked and crumbled bacon: brings smoky saltiness; aim for thick-cut bacon for the best bite
- Three teaspoons of minced garlic: deliver a subtle punch that elevates all the flavors—fresh garlic is key here
- Half a cup of chopped onion: adds sweetness and texture; white or yellow onions work equally well
How to Make It
- Preheat Oven:
- Spoon preheat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a nine by thirteen inch baking pan generously with nonstick spray to prevent sticking and help crisp the edges
- Mix Ingredients:
- Combine the ingredients in a large bowl by mixing potatoes, cheese, bacon, garlic, onion, and mayonnaise or Greek yogurt until all pieces are evenly coated ensuring every bite has that perfect balance of flavor
- Prepare for Baking:
- Pour the mixture into the prepared pan spreading it out evenly so the casserole cooks uniformly
- Bake:
- Bake in the oven for one and a half hours or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the edges show a slight crisp which creates a delightful contrast between soft and crunchy textures
- Serve:
- Serve the dish warm and consider topping with sour cream, chopped chives, or fresh parsley for extra flavor and color
My favorite ingredient has to be the bacon because it adds that wonderful crunch and smoky note that keeps you coming back for more. I remember making this for my grandparents who loved the heartiness and always asked for seconds.
Flavor Boosters
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days to keep freshness and flavor intact. Reheat in the microwave using short intervals to avoid drying out the potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these potatoes alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Adding a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness nicely.
Creative Twists
Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise to lighten the dish without sacrificing creaminess. You can swap cheddar with a blend of cheeses like mozzarella and Monterey Jack for a milder, gooier casserole.
These Mississippi Mud Potatoes offer a comforting and flavorful addition to any meal thats sure to impress family and friends every time.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese works best for this dish?
Sharp cheddar cheese adds both creaminess and a tangy flavor that complements the potatoes and bacon well.
- → Can I substitute mayonnaise with a lighter option?
Yes, Greek yogurt can be used instead of mayonnaise to lighten the dish while maintaining creaminess.
- → How do I know when the potatoes are perfectly cooked?
Bake until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the edges turn slightly crispy and golden.
- → Are there recommended toppings to enhance the flavors?
Fresh chives, sour cream, parsley, or jalapeños provide great flavor boosts and beautiful color contrast.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare and assemble the mixture up to 24 hours in advance before baking.
- → Is freezing a good storage option for leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture, causing it to become grainy upon thawing.