Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these Mississippi Mud Potatoes. This creamy, cheesy dish combines tender diced potatoes, crispy bacon, and savory garlic and onion, all baked to golden perfection. The addition of mayonnaise creates a luscious texture, while the cheddar cheese delivers a rich and melty topping.

Perfect as a hearty side dish for barbecues, family dinners, or potlucks, these potatoes are sure to become a crowd-pleasing favorite. Serve them hot for an irresistible blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love It:

Rich and Creamy: The mayonnaise and melted cheese create a velvety texture that’s pure comfort.
Smoky Bacon Goodness: Crispy bacon adds depth and an irresistible savory kick.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or holiday feasts, this dish is always a hit.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in advance and bake when you’re ready, making it ideal for busy schedules.

Key Ingredients:

Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are the best choices for this recipe. Russets provide a fluffy texture, while Yukon Golds are creamier and hold their shape well.
Cheddar Cheese: For maximum flavor and melt, shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for hearty, smoky bites. Cooking it until extra crispy ensures it holds up well in the dish.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a bold, aromatic flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Mayonnaise: The creamy binder for this dish—stick with regular mayo for the best results. If you prefer, you can substitute half the mayo with sour cream for a tangy twist.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Peel and Dice the Potatoes

Peel 6 cups of potatoes and dice them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Place the diced potatoes in a large bowl.

Cook and Crumble the Bacon

Cook 1 cup of bacon until crispy.
Crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside.

Shred the Cheese

Shred 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a richer flavor than pre-shredded options.

Chop the Onion

Finely chop 1/2 cup of onion to add subtle sweetness and depth to the dish.

Mince the Garlic

Mince 3 teaspoons of garlic for an aromatic boost of flavor.

2. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). The lower temperature ensures the flavors meld together while the potatoes cook evenly.

3. Combine the Ingredients

Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Diced potatoes
Shredded cheddar cheese
Crumbled bacon
Minced garlic
Chopped onion

Add the Mayonnaise: Stir in 3/4 cup of mayonnaise until everything is evenly coated. The mayonnaise will create a creamy base for the dish.

4. Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease the Pan: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.

Transfer the Mixture: Pour the potato mixture into the greased pan, spreading it evenly into a single layer.

5. Bake the Potatoes

Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 1 1/2 hours.

Check Progress: Periodically check the potatoes for even cooking. Stir gently if needed.

Golden Finish: The dish is done when the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown. Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly.

6. Serve the Dish

Cool Slightly: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to help it set and enhance its flavor.

Serve Hot: Serve the Mississippi Mud Potatoes straight from the pan. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, barbecues, or as a hearty standalone dish.

Serving Suggestions:

Mississippi Mud Potatoes pair beautifully with a wide range of main dishes, making them incredibly versatile:

Grilled or Smoked Meats: Serve alongside BBQ ribs, smoked brisket, or grilled chicken for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Burgers and Sandwiches: This dish is a fantastic complement to burgers, pulled pork, or fried chicken sandwiches.
Holiday Spreads: Include it as a star side at Thanksgiving or Christmas alongside turkey or ham.
Vegetarian Plate: Pair with a crisp green salad and roasted veggies for a vegetarian-friendly meal.

Storage and Reheating:

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until heated through.
Freezing: While freezing may alter the texture slightly, you can freeze the baked dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

Variations:

Customize your Mississippi Mud Potatoes to suit your tastes or dietary needs:

Add Veggies: Stir in cooked broccoli florets, diced bell peppers, or peas for added color and nutrition.
Swap the Cheese: Try using Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Lighter Option: Use light mayo or substitute half the mayo with Greek yogurt to reduce calories.
Extra Crunch: Top the dish with crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs during the last 15 minutes of baking.

Conclusion:

Mississippi Mud Potatoes are the ultimate comfort dish—a warm, cheesy, and bacon-filled casserole that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this recipe delivers crowd-pleasing flavors with minimal effort.

The combination of tender potatoes, savory bacon, and gooey cheese is a match made in heaven, while the creamy mayo ties it all together for a dish that’s impossible to resist. Make it your own by trying fun variations or keeping it classic—you can’t go wrong.

So, grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and prepare to savor a dish that’s rich, indulgent, and guaranteed to leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy!