Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy, and Full of Southern Flavor

📜 Introduction

Mississippi Mud Potatoes are the savory, indulgent cousin of the famous Mississippi Mud Pie — trading chocolate and sugar for cheddar, bacon, and crispy golden potatoes. Inspired by Southern comfort classics, this creamy potato casserole is a celebration of everything rich, smoky, and satisfying. It’s a staple at church potlucks, family cookouts, and holiday tables throughout the South, from Mississippi and Louisiana to Texas and Georgia. 🥓🧀🥔

The name may come from the casserole’s appearance: rustic, deeply browned, and irresistibly messy — just like the muddy banks of the Mississippi River. But inside, it’s layers of diced potatoes tossed in sour cream and mayo, loaded with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and garlic seasoning, all baked to bubbling perfection. It’s a dish that doesn’t apologize for being bold, rich, and belly-filling.

This Southern-style favorite is beloved for its make-ahead ease, crowd-pleasing flavor, and versatility. Serve it as a hearty side alongside BBQ ribs or grilled chicken, or make it the star of a casual dinner with a salad and sweet tea. And just like its dessert namesake, no one can resist going back for seconds.

7 Mouthwatering Reasons to Love Mississippi Mud Potatoes Tonight

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• Author: Donald Anderson
• Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Discover how to make the creamiest Mississippi Mud Potatoes ever—cheesy, hearty, and packed with smoky bacon flavor. A true Southern classic!

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Ingredients

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• 2 ½ pounds red potatoes, scrubbed and diced (skin on for rustic texture)
• 1 pound thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup mayonnaise (for ultra creaminess)
• 1 bunch green onions, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, adds depth)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Nonstick cooking spray or butter for greasing

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Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes and Bacon
2. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
3. Dice the red potatoes into small, bite-size pieces. No need to peel them.
4. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Drain on a paper towel and set aside.
5. Mix the Creamy Base
6. In a large bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar, half the green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Stir until smooth, creamy, and fully blended.
8. Assemble Everything
9. Add the diced potatoes and three-fourths of the cooked bacon to the creamy mixture.
10. Toss everything together until the potatoes are fully coated.
11. Bake to Perfection
12. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray.
13. Spoon the mixture into the dish and smooth the top.
14. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
15. Remove foil and bake another 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
16. Garnish and Serve
17. Top with remaining bacon and chopped green onions.
18. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving warm.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: Southern American

🛠️ What You’ll Need

Making Mississippi Mud Potatoes is delightfully simple — part of the reason they’ve become a beloved staple at gatherings throughout the South. With basic tools and familiar pantry ingredients, this Southern-style potato bake comes together quickly and bakes into golden, cheesy perfection. 🥔🧄🧀

🍽️ Kitchen Tools

Here’s everything you’ll need to make prep smooth and cleanup easy:

• Large mixing bowl – for tossing potatoes, cheese, and sauce together
• 9×13-inch baking dish – the ideal size for even cooking and generous portions
• Frying pan or skillet – for crisping up the bacon beforehand
• Spatula or wooden spoon – for mixing and spreading the casserole
• (Optional) Aluminum foil – if making foil packet versions for grilling or camping

📌 Time-Saving Tip: Use pre-cooked or microwaveable bacon to skip the stovetop mess.

🧊 Prep Tips for Success

• Dice your potatoes evenly so they cook through at the same rate
• Lightly coat your baking dish or foil with a nonstick cooking spray to ensure nothing clings during baking.
• Grate your cheese fresh for better melt and richer flavor
• Chill your sour cream and mayo for a firmer, fluffier mix

These tools and tips will help you whip up a hearty potato side dish that bakes beautifully and serves like a dream — whether you’re hosting or heading to a potluck.

Looking for another comforting potato side dish? Try our Crispy Smashed Potatoes with Herb Butter — golden, garlicky, and perfect for any occasion.

🧄 Ingredients for Mississippi Mud Potatoes

This rich and creamy Mississippi Mud Potato casserole is built on simple, hearty ingredients that are always a hit. With crispy bacon, gooey cheddar, and a tangy blend of sour cream and mayo, every bite delivers indulgent Southern comfort. Here’s what you’ll need to make it at home. 🧀🥓🥔

🍲 Main Ingredients

• 5 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes, diced
  📌 Russets yield a fluffier interior; Yukon golds are creamier and hold their shape better.
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – sharp or medium works well
• 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped – crispy and flavorful
• ½ cup sour cream – adds tangy creaminess
• ¼ cup mayonnaise – makes the base extra rich and smooth
• ¼ cup green onions, chopped – for color and flavor
• 1 tsp garlic powder – or swap with a packet of ranch seasoning for variation
• Salt and pepper, to taste

🔁 Optional Additions

• Diced jalapeños – for a little heat
• Cream of mushroom soup – for a creamier, casserole-like texture
• Extra cheese – sprinkle more on top for an ooey-gooey finish
• Chopped parsley – for a fresh green garnish

📌 Flavor Tip: Shred your own cheese instead of buying pre-shredded for better melt and more flavor.

🔄 Substitutions & Dietary Tips

• Use turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a lighter version
• Sub Greek yogurt for sour cream to reduce fat and add protein
• Choose vegan mayo and cheese for a plant-based version

Love cheesy casseroles? Don’t miss our Creamy Jalapeño Corn Casserole — another rich, crowd-pleasing dish from the South.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Mississippi Mud Potatoes is as simple as mix, layer, bake — and dig in. These easy steps transform everyday ingredients into a creamy, cheesy, bacon-studded casserole that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, and weeknight dinners. 🥄🔥🧀

🔪 Step 1: Prep & Mix

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine:
   • 5 diced potatoes
   • ½ cup sour cream
   • ¼ cup mayonnaise
   • 1 tsp garlic powder
   • Salt and pepper to taste
   • Half of the shredded cheddar cheese
   • Most of the cooked bacon (save some for topping)
3. Stir well until the potatoes are evenly coated and the ingredients are fully mixed.

📌 Tip: For extra even cooking, try to dice your potatoes into small, uniform pieces — about ½ inch cubes.

🍲 Step 2: Layer & Bake

1. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Spread the mixture evenly into the dish.
3. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and reserved bacon over the top.
4. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Uncover and bake an additional 10 minutes to allow the top to crisp and brown.

📌 Optional: Broil for the last 3–5 minutes for a golden, bubbly finish.

🌿 Step 3: Garnish & Serve

1. Let rest for 5–10 minutes after baking — this helps the cheese set slightly for cleaner scooping.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley.
3. Serve warm as a side dish or a hearty main course.

Pro Serving Ideas:

• Pair with BBQ ribs, grilled chicken, or fried catfish
• Serve leftovers with fried or scrambled eggs for a breakfast hash feel
• Scoop into foil packets for tailgate or campfire meals

Serve this alongside our Awesome Blossom Onion Bites for a bold, flavor-packed Southern spread.

🧮 Nutrition Score (Approx. per Serving)

While Mississippi Mud Potatoes are the epitome of creamy, cheesy indulgence, it’s still smart to know what’s in each hearty scoop. Even comfort food like Mississippi Mud Potatoes can be part of a balanced lifestyle with the right ingredients and portion control. 🥓🧀🥔

📊 Nutritional Breakdown of Mississippi Mud Potatoes (Per 1-Cup Serving)

• Calories: ~370
• Total Fat: 25 oz
• Saturated Fat: 10 oz
• Carbohydrates: 22 oz
• Protein: 12 oz
• Sodium: 510 mg
• Sugar: 2 oz
• Fiber: 2 oz

Each serving of Mississippi Mud Potatoes delivers a rich combo of fats from mayo and sour cream, protein from bacon and cheese, and satisfying starches from tender diced potatoes. That’s why Mississippi Mud Potatoes can hold their own as both a side dish or a hearty main.

💡 Healthy Swaps for Mississippi Mud Potatoes Without Sacrificing Flavor

Craving the same savory, creamy taste with a lighter nutritional footprint? Here are some simple ingredient upgrades that keep the flavor high and the guilt low:

• Use plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream — keeps the creamy tang with a protein boost
• Try low-fat mayo or light sour cream to cut back on total fat
• Swap bacon for turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon crumbles
• Opt for reduced-fat cheddar, or simply use less cheese on top
• Replace white potatoes with sweet potatoes to add fiber and vitamin A

📌 Portion Tip: Serve Mississippi Mud Potatoes in small ramekins at parties for easy, controlled servings.

For more guilt-free comfort dishes, check out my refreshing Zesty Roasted Beet and Orange Salad — it’s a bright and healthy side that balances out rich dishes like Mississippi Mud Potatoes beautifully.

🍽️ Serving & Storage Tips

Mississippi Mud Potatoes are as versatile as they are indulgent. Whether you’re serving them fresh from the oven or prepping a day ahead, this cheesy, bacon-packed casserole holds up beautifully — making it a favorite for gatherings, leftovers, and even breakfast pairings. 🧀🔥🥔

🍴 Best Ways to Serve

This hearty side is right at home at:

• Backyard BBQs – pairs perfectly with grilled meats like ribs, steak, or pulled pork
• Holiday dinners – a creamy contrast to ham or roasted turkey
• Potlucks and tailgates – transportable, easy to reheat, and a guaranteed hit
• Brunch or breakfast-for-dinner – serve with fried or scrambled eggs for a Southern twist on hash

📌 Flavor Pairing Tip: A crisp green salad or tangy slaw balances the richness of the casserole.

❄️ Storage & Reheating

Keep the comfort coming — here’s how to store and reheat for best results:

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• To reheat:
  • Microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes
  • Or cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes
• ❌ Do not freeze – the dairy can break and become grainy after thawing

📌 Meal Prep Tip: Make ahead, refrigerate overnight, and bake the next day — just add 5–10 minutes to the bake time.

Pair with our Honey Butter Roasted Carrots for a sweet, earthy side that complements the richness of the potatoes.

🔀 Variations & Flavor Ideas

The true charm of Mississippi Mud Potatoes lies in their versatility. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, spicy food lovers, or those on specific diets, this hearty casserole adapts beautifully. You can spice it up, lighten it, or even grill it — the options are as endless as your creativity. 🔁🧄🫑🧀

🌶️ Flavor Boosters to Elevate Your Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Looking to pack more punch into your Mississippi Mud Potatoes? These bold add-ins and swaps will take your casserole to the next level:

• Diced jalapeños or green chiles – stir into the base for a spicy edge
• Caramelized onions or roasted garlic – add depth, sweetness, and aroma
• Pepper jack or smoked gouda – give your Mississippi Mud Potatoes a bold, cheesy twist
• Ranch seasoning packet – trade garlic powder for a tangy ranch vibe
• BBQ sauce drizzle – brush over the top for smoky, caramelized flavor

📌 Pro Tip: Sprinkle on extra cheese halfway through baking for an ultra-melty top that makes these Mississippi Mud Potatoes truly irresistible.

🔥 Outdoor Grilled Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Bring the Southern flavor outdoors! Grilling Mississippi Mud Potatoes is perfect for tailgates, campfire nights, or summer dinners:

• Scoop mixture into individual foil packets
• Grill over medium-high heat for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping once
• Carefully open and top with cheese and bacon before serving

This method keeps your kitchen cool and delivers a smoky layer of flavor unique to grilled Mississippi Mud Potatoes.

🥕 Vegetarian & Dietary Swaps That Still Deliver

Yes, you can enjoy Mississippi Mud Potatoes without the meat or dairy — and still keep that comfort food appeal:

• Omit bacon and use sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini
• Choose plant-based sour cream, mayo, and cheese for a vegan casserole
• Swap in roasted sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a low-carb version

📌 Texture Tip: Pre-sauté vegetables before adding to the mix. This keeps your Mississippi Mud Potatoes from becoming watery and preserves that rich, creamy consistency.

💡 Pair it with my crunchy Spicy Cucumber Sesame Slaw — a refreshing contrast that balances out the rich, cheesy goodness of Mississippi Mud Potatoes.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

📝 Conclusion

Mississippi Mud Potatoes are the ultimate Southern comfort food — rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors like cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and buttery potatoes. Whether you’re prepping for a cozy family dinner or feeding a crowd at a potluck, Mississippi Mud Potatoes never disappoint. 🥔🧀🥓

Why Mississippi Mud Potatoes Deserve a Spot on Your Table

Not only are Mississippi Mud Potatoes incredibly satisfying, but they’re also ridiculously easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish transforms into a bubbling, golden casserole that’s impossible to resist. Bake it in a glass dish, prepare foil packs for the grill, or make it ahead for stress-free entertaining — however you serve it, Mississippi Mud Potatoes hit the mark.

Share the Love with a Classic Southern Favorite

Loaded with savory goodness and easily customizable, Mississippi Mud Potatoes are perfect for holidays, BBQs, or weeknight meals. Want to add a twist? Try mixing in jalapeños for heat or mushrooms for an earthy depth. Don’t forget the green onions on top for that fresh, zesty finish! 🌿

Craving more classic comfort food? Pair your Mississippi Mud Potatoes with my hearty Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese Casserole for a Southern meal that’s both nostalgic and mouthwatering. 💛