Name: Mississippi Mud Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 bacon slices; Cooking spray; 2/3 cup mayonnaise; 1/3 cup sour cream; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp garlic powder; 4 scallions, sliced; 8 oz shredded cheddar cheese; 2 1/2 lb russet potatoes, peeled and chopped (about 7 cups)

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Mississippi Mud Potatoes combine the creamy richness of sour cream and mayonnaise with the savory crunch of bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh scallions. This indulgent dish is the perfect side for a family dinner, a barbecue, or any gathering where comfort food is the star of the show. These potatoes are a twist on traditional potato dishes, offering an exciting combination of textures and flavors that will leave everyone coming back for more. The creamy base is balanced perfectly by crispy bacon and the sharp bite of cheddar, all coming together to create a dish that’s as satisfying as it is comforting.

Mississippi Mud Potatoes are easy to make, require only a few ingredients, and can be prepared ahead of time, making them a great option for busy hosts. Whether you’re serving them with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad, these potatoes will quickly become a crowd favorite. The combination of creamy and crispy elements in each bite offers a wonderful contrast, and it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A flavorful twist on traditional mashed potatoes

The addition of bacon, scallions, and cheddar cheese gives these potatoes a savory boost that traditional mashed potatoes lack.

Easy to prepare

With only a few ingredients and simple steps, this dish comes together quickly and effortlessly.

Perfect for any occasion

Whether it’s a holiday meal or a casual dinner, Mississippi Mud Potatoes are the ideal side dish for any gathering.

Great for make-ahead meals

This recipe can be prepped ahead of time and reheated, making it an easy option for meal prepping or entertaining.

Loved by everyone

With creamy mayonnaise, tangy sour cream, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese, this recipe is guaranteed to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

Bacon slices
Cooking spray
Mayonnaise
Sour cream
Kosher salt
Garlic powder
Scallions
Shredded cheddar cheese
Russet potatoes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the mayo mixture for a kick of heat.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked cheddar cheese instead of regular cheddar for a deeper, smokier flavor.
Herb Add-ins: Fresh herbs like chives or parsley can be added to the potatoes for a burst of color and flavor.
Vegetarian: Omit the bacon or substitute with plant-based bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Dairy-Free: Replace the sour cream and cheese with dairy-free alternatives to make the dish suitable for lactose-intolerant guests.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and chop the russet potatoes into uniform chunks, about 1-inch in size. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the potatoes cook, fry the bacon slices in a skillet until crispy. Remove from the pan, drain on paper towels, and crumble once cooled.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Base

In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, kosher salt, and garlic powder until smooth.

Step 4: Assemble the Potatoes

Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the creamy mayonnaise mixture and mash the potatoes until smooth.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bacon

Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sliced scallions. Stir until the cheese is melted and the ingredients are well combined.

Step 6: Serve

Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish and garnish with additional crumbled bacon and cheese if desired. Serve warm.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Make sure to cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender to ensure a smooth mash.
If you prefer a creamier texture, add more sour cream or mayonnaise to suit your taste.
Be sure to let the bacon cool before crumbling it to prevent it from getting too greasy in the potatoes.
For a more decadent version, top the potatoes with extra cheese and bake until bubbly and golden.

How to Serve

These Mississippi Mud Potatoes make an excellent side dish to accompany grilled meats, fried chicken, or roasted vegetables. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad to balance out the richness of the dish. Serve them alongside classic barbecue items or with a comforting home-cooked meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Mississippi Mud Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a covered dish in the oven until warm.

Freezing

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, it can be frozen for up to 1 month. To freeze, let the potatoes cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the oven for the best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave individual servings or place the entire dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potatoes up to step 5 and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. Reheat before serving.

Can I substitute other potatoes?

Russet potatoes work best for this recipe, but Yukon Gold potatoes can be used for a creamier mash.

How can I make the potatoes spicier?

Add a bit of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes to the creamy base for extra heat.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the bacon or substitute with vegetarian bacon.

Can I use store-bought mashed potatoes?

While fresh mashed potatoes give the best texture, you can use store-bought mashed potatoes if you’re in a pinch.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze the potatoes for up to 1 month. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing.

Can I add other toppings to these potatoes?

Yes, you can top with additional cheese, sour cream, or even chopped herbs like chives for extra flavor.

Can I use a different cheese?

Cheddar cheese is ideal for its melting properties, but you can use mozzarella or a combination of your favorite cheeses.

Can I use low-fat mayonnaise or sour cream?

Yes, low-fat or fat-free versions of these ingredients can be used, though they may slightly alter the texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Mississippi Mud Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. The combination of crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and tangy sour cream creates a dish that’s rich and satisfying. Whether served at a family dinner, barbecue, or holiday gathering, these potatoes are sure to become a favorite side. With easy prep, make-ahead potential, and endless variations, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious.