Mississippi Mud Potatoes Bake

Mississippi mud potatoes are creamy comforting and loaded with flavor making them a go-to for potlucks family dinners or lazy weekend brunch.

My family asks for these potatoes at every holiday and last summer I made them for a backyard dinner with friends where they disappeared in minutes before anything else.

Ingredients

• Russet potatoes: choose firm unblemished ones because they hold their shape and turn fluffy inside
• Shredded cheddar cheese: sharp variety melts best and brings bold flavor
• Mayonnaise: use full-fat for the richest texture and to create that classic creamy sauce
• Bacon: look for thick-cut slices for more flavor and crisp edges after baking
• Garlic: always use fresh cloves which give a gentle punch without overpowering
• Onion: opt for medium-sized yellow onion for sweetness and balance
• Tip: If you want the tastiest results choose high-quality mayo and real cheese instead of pre-shredded blends.

Instructions

Prep the oven and baking pan:

Set your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit or 163 degrees Celsius and grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish lightly so nothing sticks while baking

Mix everything together in the pan:

Add diced potatoes cheddar cheese cooked and crumbled bacon minced garlic and chopped onion right to the pan for less cleanup

Coat with mayonnaise:

Spoon in that full-fat mayonnaise and gently toss or use clean hands to turn everything over until evenly coated this creates the signature creamy sauce

Bake until golden and bubbly:

Spread the mixture out in the dish and slide it into the oven uncovered bake for ninety minutes or until a fork slides easily into the potatoes and the top is golden and bubbling

Let it rest before serving:

When the dish comes out let it sit for about five to ten minutes so the sauce thickens and everything sets a bit before scooping onto plates

Every time I make these creamy potatoes I am reminded of lazy Sunday brunches at my grandmother’s where everyone piled their plates high and laughed around the table. My favorite ingredient is always the crisp bacon because it gives that salty bite that makes every forkful exciting.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. If needed reheat covered in the oven at low heat or pop individual servings in the microwave for quick lunches. This dish does not freeze perfectly due to the mayo base but you can still freeze it if you are not too picky about texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to lighten it up swap some or all of the mayonnaise for plain Greek yogurt. Allergy to dairy Simply use dairy-free cheese and skip the bacon for a vegetarian version. Red potatoes can work instead of russets just dice them a bit smaller for quicker cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve as a show-stopping side for brisket or roasted chicken or pile it high with a fried egg for brunch. Sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh parsley on top for a pop of color. My family loves a splash of hot sauce over their portions on chilly days.

Cultural Context

Mississippi mud potatoes are inspired by classic Southern comfort food traditions. The name comes from the earthy look of the dish when baked full of rich rustic flavor just like the muddy banks of the Mississippi River. Over time it has become a beloved staple at potlucks church gatherings and family celebrations throughout the South.

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap in sweet potatoes for a fall twist and add smoked paprika for extra depth In summer toss in some fresh corn kernels for pop and sweetness For holiday flair top with crispy fried onions or herby breadcrumb topping

Success Stories

When I served these at a holiday potluck last year several people asked for the recipe on the spot. One friend tried making it for her picky kids and now it is a staple in their weekly meal plan. These potatoes are guaranteed to turn heads and win hearts at any gathering.

Freezer Meal Conversion

For best results assemble the dish but do not bake. Cover tightly and freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge then bake as usual adding an extra fifteen minutes if necessary to ensure the potatoes are tender. The texture will be a little different but the flavor stays fantastic.

Mississippi mud potatoes are always the first to vanish at any gathering and they reheat beautifully for easy comfort food all week. Keep this recipe on hand for moments when you need a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes also work well, though russets provide a fluffier texture.

→ Is it possible to prepare ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish fully, cover, and refrigerate up to one day before baking.

→ Can I substitute the mayonnaise?

You can use sour cream or Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative, though the flavor will change slightly.

→ How can I make this vegetarian?

Omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative for a vegetarian-friendly version with plenty of flavor.

→ What should I serve these potatoes with?

They pair perfectly with grilled meats, barbecue, or roast chicken and are great for potlucks and gatherings.