Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Mississippi Mud Potatoes combine all the classic flavors of a loaded baked potato into one easy casserole perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. This dish brings together tender potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and creamy mayonnaise with a pop of fresh green onions for a crowd-pleasing side that consistently disappears from the table fast.

I first made this casserole during a family cookout and was amazed at how everyone kept going back for more. It’s become a must-have whenever we want an effortless and satisfying potato dish that feels like a special treat.

Ingredients

• Yellow potatoes: Yukon gold potatoes are my favorite for their subtle creaminess and firm texture that holds up well when baking. Russet or Idaho potatoes also work if you prefer a fluffier bite
• Yellow onion: A basic yellow or Vidalia onion adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor when baked with the potatoes
• Fresh garlic: Using fresh garlic makes a huge flavor difference by adding brightness and aromatic richness compared to jarred garlic
• Bacon: Regular sliced bacon crisps up perfectly and imparts a smoky, savory note. You can substitute finely diced ham if needed but bacon is best
• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and a subtle tang to bind everything together. You can mix half mayo and half sour cream if you want a little extra tang
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar is classic but feel free to vary with Pepper Jack, Mozzarella, or a cheese blend for different flavor profiles
• Onion powder and garlic powder: These penetrate the casserole with layered savory notes enhancing the fresh aromatics
• Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing and seasoning all the flavors
• Green onions: Tossed on top for a fresh, slightly pungent crunch that contrasts the creamy potatoes

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

First, ensure your yellow potatoes are peeled and diced evenly to promote uniform baking. Dice your yellow onion finely and mince the fresh garlic. Set these aside.

Combine the Ingredients:

Spray a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking. In the dish or a separate bowl, mix together the potatoes, diced onion, minced garlic, crisp cooked bacon bits, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly so the potatoes are well-coated and the flavors are evenly distributed.

Cover and Bake:

Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap steam. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for one hour or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This slow baking allows the flavors to meld and the potatoes to soften perfectly without drying out.

Finish with Green Onions:

Once out of the oven, remove the foil and sprinkle chopped green onions generously over the top. Give the casserole a gentle stir to mix some of the green onions in while leaving plenty to add a fresh finish. Serve hot.

One family dinner, my husband ate two big servings and declared them the best potatoes I ever made.

Storage Tips

Store leftover Mississippi Mud Potatoes in an airtight container once fully cooled. Keep refrigerated for up to four or five days. Reheat gently in short microwave bursts to avoid overcooking. I do not recommend freezing as the texture can become grainy upon thawing.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap the fresh garlic for good quality garlic powder but expect a milder flavor. If bacon isn’t your thing, try diced smoked ham or cooked sausage crumbles. Mixing mayo and sour cream adds a tangy kick if you prefer a sharper tang.

Serving Suggestions

These potatoes are a perfect side for BBQ pork chops, grilled burgers, or a simple steak. Add a green salad or steamed veggies to balance the richness and make a complete meal.

These Mississippi Mud Potatoes bring all the flavors of a loaded baked potato to any table and are reliably loved by family and guests. Serve them hot and watch them disappear.

FAQs About This Recipe

→ Are these potatoes creamy?

While not fully creamy, these potatoes have a subtle creaminess from the mayo and cheese that enhances the texture without being mushy.

→ Can I use precooked bacon?

Fresh bacon is recommended for best texture and flavor, but precooked bacon can be used if preferred or on hand.

→ How can I add spice to this dish?

Try adding red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, diced jalapenos, or hot sauce to introduce a spicy kick.

→ Can I use frozen diced potatoes?

Frozen diced potatoes can be used without thawing since they cook evenly, but adjust quantities as needed to match fresh amounts.

→ What dishes pair well with these potatoes?

These potatoes complement BBQ pork chops, grilled bacon cheeseburgers, air fryer steak, or crock pot pork loin.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave to maintain texture.