These cheesy, smoky, and creamy Mississippi‑Mud Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish. Tender potato cubes are smothered in a silky blend of real mayonnaise and sour cream, layered with sharp cheddar and crispy bacon, then baked to bubbling golden perfection. Garnished with bright green onions, they offer a perfect balance of textures—from crisp bacon bits to velvety potatoes.
Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or hearty weekend meals, this dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or stands proudly on its own. It’s simple to prepare, yet rich and crowd‑pleasing—sure to disappear fast at the table.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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6 cups Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½–1″ cubes
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1 cup real mayonnaise
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½ cup sour cream
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2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
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1 pound bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
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½ cup yellow onion, chopped
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3 teaspoons garlic (minced or powder)
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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½ cup green onions (scallions), thinly sliced (for garnish)
Directions:
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Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×13‑inch baking dish.
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In a large bowl, combine diced potatoes, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, onion, garlic, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
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Add mayonnaise and sour cream; mix until every cube is coated in creamy goodness.
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Transfer to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
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Bake uncovered for about 1½ hours, or until potatoes are fork‑tender and top is golden.
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Remove from oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes.
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Garnish with sliced green onions and extra bacon if desired. Serve warm.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 90 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Kcal: approx. 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 6–8
The History and Origins of Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Mississippi Mud Potatoes, sometimes affectionately called “Mud Potatoes,” are a beloved Southern comfort food that has earned its place on tables across the American South and beyond. The name “Mississippi Mud” originally referred to a decadent chocolate cake known for its dense, rich texture and gooey layers, evocative of the muddy banks of the Mississippi River. However, this potato casserole takes the essence of that indulgence and translates it into a savory, creamy, and satisfying side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of meals.
The dish embodies Southern culinary traditions — hearty, rich, and full of flavor — relying on simple, familiar ingredients like potatoes, cheese, mayonnaise, and bacon to create something more than the sum of its parts. It’s a testament to how humble ingredients can be elevated to create a dish that is comforting, crowd-pleasing, and nostalgic.
Why This Recipe is So Popular
The popularity of Mississippi Mud Potatoes comes down to a few key reasons. First, the combination of flavors is deeply satisfying. Potatoes provide a comforting, starchy base while the sharp cheddar cheese adds a rich, creamy, and slightly tangy note. Mayonnaise and sour cream contribute moisture and a silky texture, while bacon delivers a smoky, crispy contrast. The addition of garlic and onion layers in savory depth that keeps the dish interesting.
Second, the recipe is incredibly versatile and forgiving. It works equally well as a hearty side dish for family dinners, potlucks, holiday meals, or even casual get-togethers. You can prepare it ahead of time, pop it in the oven, and serve a dish that tastes like you’ve spent hours fussing over it.
Finally, it appeals to a broad range of eaters — from comfort food lovers craving indulgence to anyone who appreciates classic Southern cooking. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even a simple green salad, making it a great all-around choice.
The Ingredients That Make It Special
The magic of Mississippi Mud Potatoes lies in how everyday ingredients come together to create a decadent side dish. Potatoes, naturally creamy when cooked right, form the bulk of the dish. Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well while becoming tender and fluffy.
Mayonnaise and sour cream, two ingredients sometimes considered unconventional for potatoes, add a rich creaminess that elevates the dish beyond a typical baked potato casserole. The mayonnaise acts as an emulsifier, binding the ingredients and adding moisture, while the sour cream offers tanginess that balances the richness.
Sharp cheddar cheese is essential to this recipe. Its bold flavor and melty texture create a luscious layer that blankets the potatoes. Bacon introduces smoky, salty crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft potatoes and creamy sauce.
Onions and garlic bring savory notes that deepen the overall flavor profile, and a touch of smoked paprika adds warmth and a subtle hint of spice without overpowering the dish. Finally, fresh green onions sprinkled on top provide color and a mild oniony brightness that cuts through the richness.
Techniques for Perfect Texture and Flavor
One reason this recipe works so well is the attention paid to texture. The potatoes are diced rather than mashed, so you get a satisfying bite of tender potato rather than a uniform creamy mash. The baking process allows the cheese to melt and create a golden crust on top, while the bacon pieces stay crisp.
Incorporating mayonnaise and sour cream ensures the potatoes remain moist and tender, preventing them from drying out during the long baking time. Mixing the ingredients well so every potato cube is coated is key to distributing flavor evenly.
Baking uncovered helps achieve a slight browning on top, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal. Resting the casserole for a few minutes after baking allows the dish to set, making it easier to serve.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
Mississippi Mud Potatoes can be easily customized to suit your taste or dietary needs. For those who want to add a little extra veggie nutrition, diced bell peppers or sautéed mushrooms can be stirred in. If you prefer a smokier flavor, add a bit of smoked gouda cheese or a dash of liquid smoke.
For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and consider using smoked paprika and caramelized onions to add depth. Vegan versions can replace mayonnaise and sour cream with plant-based alternatives and use dairy-free cheese.
As a side dish, Mississippi Mud Potatoes pair beautifully with classic Southern mains like fried chicken, smoked ribs, or baked ham. They also complement grilled steaks, roasted pork, or even a simple salad for a balanced meal.
Tips for Preparation and Storage
Preparation is straightforward, but a few tips can help ensure success. Use fresh potatoes that are firm and free from sprouts or blemishes. Peel and dice the potatoes into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
Cook the bacon until crisp and drain well to avoid sogginess in the casserole. Mix all ingredients thoroughly so the potatoes are well-coated. Greasing the baking dish well prevents sticking and helps with easy cleanup.
This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking, making it a convenient option for busy cooks. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to three days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave. The flavors often deepen after resting, making it a perfect make-ahead dish.
Nutritional Considerations
While Mississippi Mud Potatoes are certainly indulgent and rich, there are ways to make them lighter if desired. Using low-fat mayonnaise or sour cream can reduce calories and fat without sacrificing too much creaminess. You can also add more vegetables to bulk up the casserole and increase fiber content.
Portion control is important since this dish is calorie-dense due to cheese, mayonnaise, and bacon. However, when enjoyed as part of a balanced meal with lean protein and vegetables, it can fit comfortably into many eating plans.
Why Mississippi Mud Potatoes Are Perfect for Entertaining
When hosting a gathering, ease of preparation and broad appeal are crucial. Mississippi Mud Potatoes deliver on both counts. They can be assembled in advance, require minimal hands-on cooking, and feed a crowd without stress.
The rich flavors and comforting textures appeal to all ages, making them a safe choice for family dinners or potlucks. The dish also travels well if you need to bring a side to a party.
Visually, the casserole with its golden top, crispy bacon bits, and bright green onions makes a welcoming presentation on any table, adding a homestyle charm that invites guests to dig in.
Conclusion
Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a timeless Southern comfort dish that brings together creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and a luscious mayo-sour cream base into one irresistible casserole. Its origins rooted in Southern tradition, the recipe has become a beloved staple for holidays, potlucks, and everyday family meals alike.
Its ease of preparation, adaptability, and decadent flavors make it an excellent choice for cooks of all skill levels who want to impress with minimal effort. Whether served alongside your favorite grilled meat, at a holiday feast, or simply as a cozy meal at home, these loaded potatoes deliver warm, satisfying comfort that’s hard to beat.
Add this dish to your culinary repertoire and experience the rich flavors and nostalgic appeal of Mississippi Mud Potatoes — a true celebration of Southern hospitality and flavor.
