There are a few dishes that never make it past the dinner table without someone asking, “Can I get the recipe?”

This is one of them.

The first time I made these Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes was the third Sunday of June a couple of years ago when we had some family over. I’d felt as if I made enough—a big, deep pan of golden potatoes bound by bubbling cheese and slick ribbons of crispy bacon. But by the time everyone came back for seconds (and some of us for thirds), the dish was licked clean. Not a single bite left. I’m laughing as I stand there, spoon still in hand, because I didn’t even get a photo of it before it was scooped up.

There’s just something about the combination of creamy potatoes, smoky bacon and melted cheese that feels like home. It’s cozy, no-nonsense and hits all the right notes.

If your type of food is simple, comforting food that brings people together—this is it.

What Makes This Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe Special

This isn’t your typical potato bake. It’s richer, cheesier, and more down-to-earth.

Here’s why people can’t stop making it:

• Simple ingredients you already have in your kitchen.
• One-bowl mix-up—no complicated layers.
• Bakes golden and bubbly with almost no effort.
• Feeds a crowd—perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or holidays.

The name “Mississippi Mud Potatoes” might sound rustic, but that’s the charm. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t need fancy plating. Simply serve it onto a plate, pick up a fork, and experience pure comfort with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need anything fancy or expensive. All it takes is a few pantry staples and 10 minutes of prep.

Ingredients:

• 6–7 cups diced potatoes (Russet or Yukon gold is best)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 lb. bacon, cooked and chopped
• 1 tsp garlic salt
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sliced green onions

Optional Add-ins:

• Pinch of black pepper, for some bite
• ½ tsp smoked paprika – for added flavour dimension
• A sprinkle of mozzarella for even more cheesy goodness

This recipe is extremely forgiving. If your supply of mayonnaise is running low, throw in some sour cream. If you like less salt, omit the garlic salt and use your favorite seasoning blend instead. It’s adjustable—the way a nutritious family recipe should be.

Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

This slow bake ensures the potatoes stay soft inside but develop a golden top.

Step 2: Mix It All Together

• In a large bowl, combine potatoes, cheese, bacon, garlic salt, and green onions.

Once combined, add the mayonnaise and stir gently until every piece is evenly coated.

Step 3: Bake Until Golden

• Spread the mixture evenly in a greased baking dish.
• Bake uncovered for 1½ hours, or until tender and lightly browned.

When you pull it from the oven, it should be bubbling around the edges with a golden crust.

Mama’s Creamy Potato Trick

When my mama made these Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes, she never just tossed everything into the dish and hoped for the best—she had a simple little trick that made all the difference. Before baking, she’d warm the mayo just slightly and stir it into the potatoes by hand, coating every piece evenly. That tiny step kept the inside creamy while the edges crisped up perfectly in the oven.

She always used her old cast-iron skillet, claiming that it gave the bacon and cheese a golden, smoky edge that no glass dish could achieve. The result? Perfectly tender potatoes, bubbling with cheese, smoky from the bacon, and creamy all the way through. One bite, and you’ll understand why this side dish never makes it to the leftovers.

What It Looks and Smells Like

The aroma was enough to draw the entire family into the kitchen.

All that melted cheese, crispy bacon and crusty (roasted or fried) potatoes are pure comfort.

The top will be golden and a bit nubbly, and the interior creamy and lush, almost like the very best kind of potato casserole.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal cleanup: a bowl, a dish.
• Budget-friendly: feeds 6–8 easily.
• Flexible: serves as a side or even a main course with salad.
• Crowd-pleaser: it’s always the first one eaten.

You can be absolutely sure there’d never be any left over.

Tricks for Making the Best Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Dice evenly for consistent cooking.

Real mayo, not salad dressing.

Fry your bacon up nice and crisp so that it stays crunchy in the bake.

Take your time with the bake — it’s that slow heat that gives it texture.

Cool before serving so it will thicken a little and set.

Variations You Can Try

• The dish is prepared in a Loaded Style, which includes sour cream, butter, and additional cheese.
• Spicy Version: Throw in sliced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
• Chicken Mix-Ins: add shredded rotisserie chicken for a complete meal.
• Veggie Lovers Replace bacon with mushrooms and peppers.

Advance Preparation: Assemble, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with:

• Barbecue ribs or pulled pork
• Fried chicken
• Meatloaf or baked ham
• Green beans or a crisp salad

It’s hearty enough to sit beside any main course.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
• Reheat: 325°F oven until warm or microwave in short bursts.
• Freeze: After baking, wrap in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
• USDA Potato Storage and Safety Guide

Thaw overnight before reheating.

Calories

Let’s talk about calories. Yes, this dish is indulgent, but sometimes you’ve just got to treat yourself. A typical serving has around 350-400 calories, depending on the size of your portion and the exact ingredients you use. Remember, it’s all about balance. Enjoy this Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes casserole on special occasions or when you need a little extra comfort in your life.

Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen potatoes?

Yes, but thaw and drain them well first. Fresh potatoes bake creamier.

• Can I replace mayonnaise with sour cream?

You can, though the flavor shifts slightly. A 50/50 mix works best.

• What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar gives the richest flavor, but Colby Jack or Monterey Jack are great alternatives.

• Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely. Mix and refrigerate up to a day before baking.

• What’s the best potato type?

Russets for a classic texture, Yukon Golds for buttery flavor.

The Story Behind the Name

Why “Mississippi Mud”?

It’s about the look—the deep, rich layers of potato, cheese, and bacon that melt into each other like Southern “mud.”

It’s hearty, unpretentious, and just plain delicious food.

Every time I make this, I’m reminded how the simplest ingredients often create the most loved dishes.

You don’t need anything fancy—just potatoes, cheese, bacon, and a little time.

Serve this once, and it’ll become part of your family’s favorites too.

Warm, cozy, and impossible to stop eating—that’s Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes.

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions that might pop up as you embark on your journey to make this cheesy masterpiece.