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This filling Mississippi Mud Potatoes dish has been my trusty sidekick for potlucks and family get-togethers for ages. When you mix up crunchy bacon, soft potatoes, and gooey cheese, you get an amazing comfort food that's gone in minutes wherever I bring it.
I whipped up this dish when I needed something tasty for a block party down the street. It got so many nice comments that it quickly became my trademark creation. Even my kid who turns up their nose at everything asks for more when this comes out hot from the oven.
What You'll Need
- Russet potatoes they keep their form while getting nice and soft inside
- Cheddar cheese gives that wonderful melt and tangy taste
- Full-fat mayonnaise makes the rich sauce that pulls everything together
- Bacon throws in smoky notes and a nice crunch between bites
- Fresh garlic adds richness and smell that you just can't get from the powder stuff
- Onion gets a bit sweet while baking for extra flavor
How To Make It
- Get Everything Ready
- Cut potatoes into same-sized 1-inch chunks so they cook evenly. Make sure the bacon is super crispy since it'll soften a bit during baking. Chop onions small so they cook all the way through.
- Mix It All Up
- Throw everything straight into your baking dish to make cleanup easier. Start with the potatoes on the bottom, then add the cheese, bacon, garlic and onion. Don't worry too much about the order as long as everything's spread out nicely.
- Add Your Sauce
- Dump the mayo over all your ingredients and stir well. Take your time here to make sure every potato bit gets coated. This step creates that yummy sauce that soaks through the whole dish while it cooks.
- Cook It Right
- Put it in your hot oven without covering it. The slow cooking makes the potatoes tender while the top gets a nice golden color. You'll smell the amazing aroma filling your kitchen after about 45 minutes.
- Let It Sit
- After taking it out, don't dig in right away. This waiting time lets the sauce get thicker and makes it easier to serve. Plus the flavors keep blending during this short break.
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Mayo is the magic touch that makes this dish so wonderful. I got this recipe from my grandma who always insisted on using only the full-fat kind. She'd tell me stories about making this for my grandpa when they were just married living in Mississippi, which I think is how the dish got its name.
Keeping Leftovers
You can keep what's left in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When warming it up, wrap it with foil at first so the top doesn't burn, then uncover it for the last few minutes to make it crispy again. This dish actually tastes even better the day after you make it because all the flavors have more time to mix together.
Switch It Up
Feel free to change this dish to match what you like. Try using chopped ham instead of bacon for a different taste. Toss in veggies like broccoli bits, peas, or corn to add color and make it healthier. You can even turn it into a breakfast dish by mixing in scrambled eggs before you bake it.
What To Serve With It
This goes really well with a basic green salad with tangy dressing to balance out the richness. For a full meal, put it next to some grilled chicken or pork loin. During holiday time, it's a fantastic switch from regular mashed potatoes and my family members always ask me to bring it.
Lighter Options
While this is definitely a treat meal, you can tweak it to be a bit better for you. Swap half the mayo for Greek yogurt to boost protein and cut calories. Go with turkey bacon instead of regular to lower the fat. You might also want to mix in cauliflower pieces with the potatoes to sneak in more veggies while keeping that comfort food feel.
Common Queries
- → Can I use a different type of potato?
You bet! Try Yukon Gold or red potatoes instead of Russets for a slightly different bite and taste.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Toss in some chopped jalapeños, sprinkle red pepper flakes, or splash on your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
Sure thing! You can put everything together the day before and keep it in the fridge covered up. Just pop it in the oven right before you want to eat it.
- → What other cheeses work well in this dish?
Try smoked gouda, pepper jack, or even mozzarella as tasty swaps for cheddar to create a different flavor experience.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
You sure can! Skip the bacon and throw in some steamed broccoli, colorful peppers, or sautéed mushrooms for extra crunch and flavor.
- → What toppings can I add after baking?
Many folks love adding chopped green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of ranch dressing on top for extra flavor and creaminess.