There’s just something about cheesy, creamy, turkey bacon-loaded potatoes that brings a little magic to the dinner table. Mississippi Mud Potatoes, a dish so indulgent and comforting that once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Perfect as a side for grilled meats or as a stand-alone dish when you need some good ol’ comfort food, this recipe is pure heaven.

Let’s dive into this rich, delicious potato bake that’s crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with all the best flavors.

The Story Behind Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Okay, let’s be honest—when you hear “Mississippi Mud,” your first thought might be of that decadent chocolate dessert. But these Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a whole different kind of treat. Think of it as a loaded baked potato in casserole form, featuring creamy cheddar, crispy turkey bacon, and a touch of garlic for extra flavor.

This dish is a staple at potlucks, BBQs, and family dinners in the South, and for good reason. It’s easy to make, bakes up golden and bubbly, and pairs beautifully with anything from grilled steaks to fried chicken. Plus, it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser—there’s rarely a spoonful left by the end of the meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we start, let’s go over the simple but mighty ingredients that make this dish irresistible:

For the potatoes:

• 6 cups potatoes, peeled and diced – Russet potatoes work best because they hold their shape while getting nice and creamy.
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded – Sharp cheddar brings a bold, tangy richness to the dish.
• ¾ cup mayonnaise – Don’t skip this! It adds an incredible creaminess and depth of flavor.
• 1 cup turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled – Because everything is better with turkey bacon.
• 3 teaspoons garlic, minced – A little garlic makes all the difference.
• ½ cup onion, chopped – Adds a slight crunch and a touch of sweetness.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

The first step is simple but crucial—preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). This lower temperature ensures the potatoes cook slowly and soak up all that creamy, cheesy goodness without burning.

Also, don’t forget to lightly grease a 9×13 baking pan to prevent sticking. A quick spritz of non-stick spray or a light butter rub will do the trick.

Step 2: Mix Everything Together

Here’s where the magic starts. In your greased baking pan, add your diced potatoes, shredded cheddar, crumbled turkey bacon, minced garlic, and chopped onion.

Give it a good toss to evenly distribute the ingredients—this ensures every bite is loaded with all the best flavors.

Step 3: Add the Mayo (Yes, Mayo!)

Now, let’s talk about the secret ingredient that makes these potatoes insanely creamy—mayonnaise.

If you’ve never added mayo to a baked potato dish before, trust me on this one. It blends seamlessly into the dish, creating a rich, velvety texture that takes this recipe to a whole new level.

Pour the ¾ cup of mayonnaise over the potato mixture and stir everything together until well coated.

Pro Tip: If you’re skeptical about using mayo, you can substitute half of it with sour cream or Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier flavor.

Step 4: Time to Bake!

Pop the baking pan into your preheated oven and let it bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes.

During this time, the potatoes will become perfectly tender, the cheese will melt into gooey goodness, and the turkey bacon will infuse everything with its smoky, salty flavor.

Pro Tip: If you want extra crispy edges, crank up the oven to 375°F (190°C) for the last 10-15 minutes.

Step 5: Checking for Doneness

After 1 hour and 30 minutes, your kitchen will smell incredible. But how do you know if your Mississippi Mud Potatoes are perfectly cooked? Here’s how to check:

• The top should be golden brown – That’s a sign the cheese has melted beautifully and the potatoes are slightly crisp on the edges.
• Pierce a potato with a fork – If it slides in easily, they’re tender and ready. If there’s resistance, give them another 10-15 minutes.
• Look for bubbling goodness – The cheese and mayo should be melted and creating a slightly creamy sauce around the potatoes.

Pro Tip: If you love an extra crispy top, turn on the broiler for 3-5 minutes at the end of baking. Keep a close eye on it to prevent burning!

Step 6: Serving Up the Goodness

Now for the best part—digging in! Mississippi Mud Potatoes are rich and flavorful, making them the perfect side dish for a variety of meals. Here are some of the best ways to serve them:

As a Side for Meat Dishes

• Steak – These cheesy potatoes pair beautifully with a juicy grilled steak.
• BBQ Ribs – The smoky-sweet ribs combined with the creamy potatoes? A match made in heaven!
• Fried Chicken – The crispy, crunchy chicken contrasts so well with the soft, cheesy potatoes.

As a Standalone Comfort Meal

While these potatoes are technically a side dish, let’s be real—you could totally eat a plateful of them as the main course. Serve them with a simple side salad or some roasted vegetables, and you’ve got a cozy, satisfying meal.

Step 7: Customizing Your Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Want to put your own spin on this dish? Here are some fun and easy variations:

1️⃣ Make it Extra Cheesy

Feel free to mix and match cheeses to customize the flavor. Some great options include:

• Pepper Jack – Adds a little spicy kick.
• Mozzarella – Gives a super gooey, stretchy texture.
• Colby Jack – A milder, creamy cheese that blends well with cheddar.

2️⃣ Add a Crunchy Topping

For an extra layer of texture, sprinkle something crunchy on top before baking. Some delicious options:

• Crushed Ritz crackers or buttery breadcrumbs
• French fried onions (like the ones used in green bean casserole)
• More crumbled turkey bacon (because why not?)

3️⃣ Spice it Up 

Want a little heat? Add:

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – For a rich, smoky flavor.
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper – If you like a bit of a kick.
• Chopped jalapeños – Perfect for those who love spice!

4️⃣ Make it Even Creamier 

If you want a richer, creamier dish, try swapping some of the mayo for:

• Sour cream – Adds a tangy, creamy taste.
• Heavy cream – Makes the dish extra indulgent.
• Cream cheese – Mix in 4 oz for a super smooth, velvety texture.

5️⃣ Turn it Into a Full Meal 

This dish can easily become a hearty one-pan meal by adding protein. Try mixing in:

• Cooked, shredded chicken
• Ground beef or sausage

Storage & Reheating Tips

If (and that’s a big if) you have any leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them for the best results:

Storing:

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: These potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating:

• Oven: The best way to reheat is in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to crisp them back up.
• Microwave: Works in a pinch, but they won’t be as crispy—heat in 30-second bursts until warmed through.
• Air Fryer: If you want to revive that crispy top, pop them in the air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1️⃣ Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?

Absolutely! If you want to save some prep time, you can swap out the diced potatoes for frozen hash browns (about 6 cups). No need to thaw them—just mix them in frozen, and add about 15 extra minutes to the bake time.

2️⃣ What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Russet potatoes are the gold standard because they hold up well while baking and develop that creamy interior. However, Yukon Gold potatoes are another great option for a slightly buttery texture. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they won’t break down as nicely.

3️⃣ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge 30 minutes before baking to let it come to room temperature, then bake as directed.

4️⃣ How do I make this recipe a little healthier?

While this dish is meant to be indulgent, you can make a few swaps:

• Use Greek yogurt or light sour cream instead of mayonnaise.
• Reduce the cheese slightly or use a lower-fat cheese.
• Swap out half the potatoes for cauliflower florets for a lower-carb option.

5️⃣ Can I add more protein to make this a full meal?

Yes! To turn this into a heartier main dish, try adding:

• Shredded rotisserie chicken
• Crumbled sausage
• Cooked ground beef

6️⃣ Can I cook this in a slow cooker instead of baking it?

Yep! To make this in a slow cooker, follow the same mixing steps and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally. The potatoes should be fork-tender and creamy.

7️⃣ What should I do with leftovers?

Leftovers are just as good (if not better)! Here are a few fun ways to enjoy them:

• Breakfast Hash – Reheat and serve with a fried egg on top.
• Loaded Potato Soup – Mash up leftovers, add some broth, and blend into a creamy soup.
• Baked Potato Topping – Spoon over a baked potato for double the potato goodness.
• Quesadilla Filling – Stuff them into a tortilla with extra cheese and grill until crispy.

Final Thoughts: Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Let’s be honest—there are a lot of potato dishes out there, but Mississippi Mud Potatoes are in a league of their own. They’re cheesy, creamy, smoky, and absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a potluck, or just because you need a little comfort food in your life, this dish never disappoints.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab those potatoes, crisp up some turkey bacon, and get ready for a dish that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds). Don’t forget to pin this recipe, bookmark it, and share it with your foodie friends—because great food is meant to be shared.

And if you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Drop a comment below and let me know your favorite add-ins, or tag me in your creations on social media. Enjoy!

More Comfort Food Recipes You’ll Love:

• Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes – The creamiest, most decadent potatoes ever.
• Loaded Baked Potato Casserole – Everything you love about a baked potato in casserole form.
• Southern Mac and Cheese – Ultra-creamy, extra cheesy, and pure comfort food.

Happy cooking!

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