Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Difficulty: Medium
Category: Side Dish / Comfort Food

Description

Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a rich, indulgent twist on classic baked potatoes. Loaded with cheese, bacon, sour cream, and a touch of Southern flair, this dish is creamy, smoky, and utterly irresistible. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or as a hearty side for barbecues!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes (about 2 lbs), peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes

• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup sour cream

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

• ¼ cup whole milk

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

Topping (Optional but Recommended):

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

• Extra sour cream for drizzling

• Hot sauce (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare Potatoes

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Peel and dice potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Rinse under cold water to remove excess starch.

3. Parboil potatoes (optional but recommended for extra creaminess):

   • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.

   • Add diced potatoes and cook for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender but still firm.

   • Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Cook Bacon

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy (about 8-10 minutes).

2. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, then crumble into small pieces.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine:

   • Parboiled potatoes

   • Melted butter

   • Sour cream

   • Milk

   • Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper

   • 1 cup of cheddar cheese

   • ½ of the crumbled bacon

2. Stir gently until well combined.

Step 4: Bake

1. Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Sprinkle remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.

3. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 5: Broil (Optional for Crispy Top)

• For an extra crispy top, broil for 2-3 minutes (watch closely to avoid burning).

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

1. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes.

2. Top with remaining bacon crumbles, green onions, and a drizzle of sour cream.

3. Serve hot with a dash of hot sauce if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 1 cup)

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Tips & Variations

• Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

• Vegetarian Option: Skip bacon and add smoked tofu or mushrooms.

• Extra Creamy: Mix in 4 oz of cream cheese with the sour cream.

• Leftovers: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best texture.

Conclusion

Mississippi Mud Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with smoky bacon flavor. This dish is sure to be a hit at any gathering! Try it tonight and watch it disappear.