Southern-Style Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes
This hearty, cheesy potato dish is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a satisfying weeknight dinner. Packed with crispy bacon, creamy cheese sauce, and tender potatoes, it bakes into a rich and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
For the Potatoes:
- 6 large russet potatoes, washed and scrubbed (leave skins on)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Cheese Sauce:
- ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warm)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
For the Toppings & Layers:
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (about 6-8 slices)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- Slice the potatoes into thin, even rounds (about ¼-inch thick). Leaving the skins on adds flavor and texture.
- Place the sliced potatoes in a large bowl and season them lightly with salt and black pepper. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until it turns light golden brown. This helps cook out the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the warm milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in ½ teaspoon garlic powder (if using), ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (if using), salt, pepper, and ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Spread half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the cooked bacon and half of the chopped green onions over the potatoes.
- Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the top.
- Repeat with the remaining potatoes, bacon, green onions, and cheese sauce, ensuring even layers.
Step 5: Bake the Potatoes
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown, and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the dish cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra chopped green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
- Serve warm as a side dish for barbecue, fried chicken, grilled meats, or enjoy it as a main dish with a fresh green salad on the side.
Tips & Variations:
✅ Add More Cheese: If you love extra cheesy potatoes, mix in ½ cup Monterey Jack or Colby cheese for extra flavor.
✅ Make it Spicy: Add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce for some heat.
✅ Make it Heartier: Stir in cooked, diced ham or shredded chicken to make it a full meal.
✅ Crispy Top Option: For an extra crispy topping, sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers over the cheese before baking.
Storage & Reheating:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.
- Freeze: You can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
This Southern-Style Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes dish is the ultimate creamy, cheesy, and indulgent comfort food. Whether served as a side or a main course, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy!