Mississippi Mud Potatoes: A Rich, Creamy Southern Classic
Looking for the perfect comfort food side dish that brings warmth, flavor, and satisfaction to the table? Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a beloved Southern-style casserole that combines tender potatoes, a creamy homemade cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions—all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday meal, a family dinner, or a potluck gathering, this dish will steal the show.
Ingredients:
- 6 large potatoes, scrubbed clean (peeled or unpeeled, your choice)
- 1/4 cup (half a stick) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (preferably warm)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 4–5 strips)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of garlic powder or nutmeg for added flavor
- Butter or cooking spray, for greasing the baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Dice the potatoes: Cut the potatoes into medium-sized cubes (about 1 inch thick). You can leave the skins on for extra texture or peel them if you prefer a smoother bite.
- Boil until fork-tender: Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water and boil for 10–12 minutes. They should be just tender, not falling apart.
- Drain and set aside: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce (Béchamel)
- Melt the butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until foamy.
- Add the flour: Whisk in the flour and stir constantly for about 1–2 minutes to form a roux. This step cooks out the raw flour taste.
- Add milk gradually: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Simmer until thickened: Continue to cook and stir for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Season and add cheese: Add salt, pepper, and optional spices. Stir in half the shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Mix it all together: In a large bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, creamy cheese sauce, half the bacon, and half the green onions. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Transfer to a baking dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray, then pour in the potato mixture.
- Top with remaining ingredients: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions on top for extra flavor and texture.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
- Cool slightly before serving: Let the dish sit for 5–10 minutes before scooping—it thickens up and becomes easier to serve.
Optional Add-Ins and Variations:
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Extra creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese into the sauce.
- Veggie boost: Mix in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a healthier version.
- Cheese variety: Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a twist.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F or microwave individual servings until heated through.
Nutrition Information (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 350–400
- Protein: 10–12g
- Carbs: 30–35g
- Fat: 20–25g
Final Thoughts
Mississippi Mud Potatoes are more than just a side dish—they’re a celebration of hearty, home-cooked Southern flavor. The rich, cheesy base with bites of crispy bacon and fresh green onions make it irresistible at any meal. Perfect for Sunday dinners, Thanksgiving spreads, or just a cozy night in.
Try it once, and it’ll become a permanent part of your comfort food rotation.
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: A Rich, Creamy Southern Classic
Looking for the perfect comfort food side dish that brings warmth, flavor, and satisfaction to the table? Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a beloved Southern-style casserole that combines tender potatoes, a creamy homemade cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions—all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday meal, a family dinner, or a potluck gathering, this dish will steal the show.
Ingredients:
- 6 large potatoes, scrubbed clean (peeled or unpeeled, your choice)
- 1/4 cup (half a stick) unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (preferably warm)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 4–5 strips)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: pinch of garlic powder or nutmeg for added flavor
- Butter or cooking spray, for greasing the baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Dice the potatoes: Cut the potatoes into medium-sized cubes (about 1 inch thick). You can leave the skins on for extra texture or peel them if you prefer a smoother bite.
- Boil until fork-tender: Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water and boil for 10–12 minutes. They should be just tender, not falling apart.
- Drain and set aside: Once cooked, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly while you prepare the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce (Béchamel)
- Melt the butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until foamy.
- Add the flour: Whisk in the flour and stir constantly for about 1–2 minutes to form a roux. This step cooks out the raw flour taste.
- Add milk gradually: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Simmer until thickened: Continue to cook and stir for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Season and add cheese: Add salt, pepper, and optional spices. Stir in half the shredded cheddar cheese until smooth.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Mix it all together: In a large bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, creamy cheese sauce, half the bacon, and half the green onions. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
- Transfer to a baking dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray, then pour in the potato mixture. Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Herb Pasta
- Top with remaining ingredients: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions on top for extra flavor and texture.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
- Cool slightly before serving: Let the dish sit for 5–10 minutes before scooping—it thickens up and becomes easier to serve.
Optional Add-Ins and Variations:
- Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Extra creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese into the sauce.
- Veggie boost: Mix in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a healthier version.
- Cheese variety: Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a twist.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 300°F or microwave individual servings until heated through.
Nutrition Information (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 350–400
- Protein: 10–12g
- Carbs: 30–35g
- Fat: 20–25g
Final Thoughts
Mississippi Mud Potatoes are more than just a side dish—they’re a celebration of hearty, home-cooked Southern flavor. The rich, cheesy base with bites of crispy bacon and fresh green onions make it irresistible at any meal. Perfect for Sunday dinners, Thanksgiving spreads, or just a cozy night in.
Try it once, and it’ll become a permanent part of your comfort food rotation.