Name: Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 105 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6–7 cups potatoes, peeled and diced.; 2 cups cheddar cheese, grated.; 1 (1 lb.) package bacon, cooked and crumbled.; 1 tsp garlic salt.; 1 cup mayonnaise.; 1/2 cup green onions, thinly sliced.

Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a deliciously comforting side dish that's perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. This hearty dish features tender potatoes mixed with crispy bacon, green onions, and garlic salt, all coated in creamy mayonnaise and topped with plenty of cheddar cheese. Baked to a golden brown, the top becomes slightly crispy while the inside stays soft and flavorful. The bacon adds a savory crunch, and the cheese melts into the dish, creating that perfect combination of flavors. This dish is easy to prepare and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser at any table. Serve it as a side dish for barbecues, roasts, or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying meal.

Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a decadent and hearty side dish that combines the best comfort food elements. With creamy mayonnaise, melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions, these baked potatoes are the perfect side for any meal. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or a potluck, these cheesy potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit.

INGREDIENTS

Potatoes: 6–7 cups of peeled and diced potatoes provide the hearty base for this dish. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well for their texture and ability to hold up during baking.
Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese add rich, cheesy flavor that melts perfectly into the potatoes.
Bacon: 1 lb of cooked and crumbled bacon brings a savory, crispy texture that complements the softness of the potatoes.
Garlic Salt: 1 teaspoon of garlic salt enhances the overall flavor with a slight garlicky kick.
Mayonnaise: 1 cup of mayonnaise coats the potatoes, keeping them moist and creamy during baking.
Green Onions: 1/2 cup of thinly sliced green onions add a fresh, mild onion flavor to balance the richness of the cheese and bacon.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C) to ensure even baking.
Step 2:: Peel and dice 6 to 7 cups of potatoes into small, even pieces. This helps them cook uniformly. Use starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the best texture.
Step 3:: In a large 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the diced potatoes, grated cheddar cheese, cooked and crumbled bacon, garlic salt, and thinly sliced green onions. Toss the ingredients together to distribute them evenly throughout the dish.
Step 4:: Pour 1 cup of mayonnaise over the potato mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to mix thoroughly, ensuring that every piece of potato is well-coated with the mayo and cheese mixture. This will give the potatoes a creamy texture as they bake.
Step 5:: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown. You can check for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork to ensure they are soft and fully cooked.
Step 6:: Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. The top should be golden and slightly crispy, while the inside remains soft and creamy.
Step 7:: Serve the Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes warm as a side dish for your favorite meals. These cheesy potatoes pair well with roasts, barbecued meats, or even as a standalone comfort food dish.

Serving and Storage Tips

Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes are best served hot out of the oven when the cheese is melty and the bacon is crispy. They make an excellent side dish for a wide range of meals, including roasts, grilled chicken, or even barbecue ribs.
If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the potato mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quick and easy side.
This dish also freezes well! Simply freeze the assembled but unbaked potato mixture, then thaw and bake when you're ready for a comforting side dish.

Helpful Notes

If you prefer a tangier flavor, you can substitute sour cream for the mayonnaise. It adds a slight tang and creaminess to the dish.
For a different twist, try adding some ranch seasoning to the mixture for a ranch-flavored potato dish.
If you want to cut back on some calories, you can use turkey bacon or reduced-fat cheese. You’ll still get plenty of flavor with a bit less richness.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Ree Drummond recommends using a mixture of cheddar and pepper jack cheese for a spicier version of this classic dish.
Chef Alton Brown suggests adding some crispy breadcrumbs on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for extra crunch.
Chef Ina Garten advises garnishing with fresh parsley or chives to add a burst of color and freshness before serving.