Elevate Your Side Dish Game with Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Are you tired of the same old potato dishes? Then it’s time to shake things up with these delicious Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes! This indulgent side dish combines tender diced potatoes with gooey cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and flavorful green onions, all baked to golden perfection. Whether you’re serving them alongside grilled meats or enjoying them as a hearty vegetarian main course, these Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes are sure to be a hit at your next meal. Let’s dive into the recipe and explore how to make this mouthwatering dish!

Ingredients:

6-7 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
1 (1 lb) package bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Peel the potatoes and dice them into bite-sized pieces. Spread the diced potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the diced potatoes.
Next, sprinkle the cooked and crumbled bacon over the cheese layer.
Season the dish with garlic salt, ensuring even distribution of the seasoning.

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and thinly sliced green onions. Stir until well mixed.

Step 4: Coat the Potatoes

Spoon the mayonnaise and green onion mixture over the layered potatoes, cheese, and bacon, spreading it evenly to cover the entire surface.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, remove the Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.
Garnish with additional sliced green onions, if desired, and serve as a delectable side dish alongside your favorite main course.

Cook Notes and Variations:

Creamy Variation: For an extra creamy texture, you can mix 1 cup of sour cream into the mayonnaise and green onion dressing before spreading it over the potatoes.
Spicy Twist: Add a kick of heat to your potatoes by mixing in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mayonnaise dressing.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon to make this dish vegetarian-friendly. You can also add diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some modifications you can make to enjoy these Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes:

Cauliflower Substitute: Replace the diced potatoes with cauliflower florets to reduce the carb content of the dish while still enjoying the cheesy goodness.
Low-Carb Dressing: Use a combination of Greek yogurt and cream cheese instead of mayonnaise for a lower-carb alternative to the dressing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I use frozen potatoes instead of fresh? A: Yes, you can use frozen diced potatoes in this recipe. However, keep in mind that frozen potatoes may release more moisture during baking, so you may need to adjust the baking time accordingly.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes up to a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Simply bake them according to the instructions when ready to serve.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven until heated through.

Q: What can I serve with these potatoes? A: These Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes pair well with a variety of main dishes, such as grilled steak, roasted chicken, or baked salmon. They also make a delicious addition to any potluck or barbecue spread.

In conclusion, these Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a delightful twist on traditional potato dishes, offering a perfect blend of cheesy, bacony goodness in every bite. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish for a family dinner or a comforting treat to enjoy on a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and versatile variations, it’s a dish that you’ll want to make again and again. So, give it a try and indulge in the irresistible flavors of these cheesy, bacon-loaded potatoes!