Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes

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Let me tell you, Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes are one of those comfort food dishes I turn to when I want something hearty, cheesy, and undeniably satisfying. I’ve made this recipe for family dinners, potlucks, and even game day gatherings, and every time, it’s a hit. The crispy edges of roasted potatoes, the gooey melted cheddar, smoky bacon crumbles, and that final touch of green onions come together in the most irresistible way.

I love that this dish doesn’t require anything fancy—it’s made with simple, affordable ingredients that you might already have on hand. And yet, it delivers big flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a cozy side dish to enjoy on a chilly evening, these cheesy potatoes deliver every single time.

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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe

This recipe is everything a cheesy potato lover dreams of: crispy on the outside, creamy inside, and topped with melted cheese and smoky bacon. It’s the perfect balance of texture and flavor. You can serve it as a side dish, or honestly, it’s so rich and filling it can stand alone as a main. Plus, it’s super easy to customize and can be made ahead of time.

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What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?

For the best texture, I recommend baby red potatoes or Yukon golds. They hold their shape well when roasted and have a buttery, creamy center that contrasts beautifully with the crisp exterior. Avoid starchy varieties like russets, which can become too crumbly for this style of dish.

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Options for Substitutions

There’s plenty of room to get creative with Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes. You can swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even smoked gouda for a twist. Not into pork? Use turkey bacon or skip the meat and toss in sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Sour cream or ranch drizzle can add a tangy touch just before serving. And if you’re watching your sodium, go for low-sodium bacon and cheese options.

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Ingredients for Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes

• Baby Red Potatoes or Yukon Golds – These varieties roast beautifully and have a creamy texture inside, providing the perfect base for the dish.
• Olive Oil – Helps the potatoes crisp up and adds a subtle richness.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the potatoes.
• Garlic Powder and Smoked Paprika – Adds depth and a slight smoky kick that complements the bacon and cheese.
• Cooked Bacon, Crumbled – Brings saltiness, crunch, and that signature smoky flavor.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts perfectly over the hot potatoes for that gooey, cheesy finish.
• Green Onions, Sliced – Adds a pop of freshness and color to balance the richness.

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Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Wash the potatoes thoroughly and cut them into bite-sized chunks—no need to peel. This step is key for getting crispy edges and soft centers. Dry them well so they roast instead of steam.

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Step 2: Season and Roast

Toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.

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Step 3: Add the Bacon and Cheese

Once the potatoes are golden and crisp, transfer them to a casserole dish. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon generously over the top, then follow with a layer of shredded cheddar cheese. Pop it back in the oven for 5-7 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles.

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Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and immediately sprinkle with chopped green onions. Serve hot as a side dish or enjoy on its own for a loaded comfort food experience.

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How Long to Prepare Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Prep Time: Washing, cutting, and seasoning the potatoes takes around 15 minutes. You’ll also need about 5 minutes to cook and crumble the bacon in advance if it’s not pre-cooked.

Cook Time: The potatoes roast for 35–40 minutes, plus an additional 5–7 minutes to melt the cheese in the oven. So, in total, you’re looking at approximately 50–60 minutes from start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes

• Dry the potatoes well after washing to ensure maximum crispiness in the oven.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give the potatoes space to roast and develop golden edges.
• Use freshly shredded cheese if possible—it melts better and has a creamier texture than pre-shredded varieties.
• Add cheese just before the end to avoid burning or overcooking.
• Finish with green onions right before serving to maintain their vibrant color and fresh flavor.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the parchment paper can lead to sticking and uneven roasting.
• Over-salting the potatoes before adding bacon and cheese can make the dish too salty.
• Using low heat will result in soggy potatoes. Stick to high heat (425°F) for the right crisp.
• Adding cheese too early can cause it to overcook or become rubbery.
• Not flipping the potatoes halfway may cause uneven browning.

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What to Serve With Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes?

1. Grilled Steak

The rich, cheesy potatoes pair beautifully with a juicy, seared steak.

2. BBQ Pulled Pork

A smoky barbecue main dish balances the creamy, savory potatoes perfectly.

3. Fried or Baked Chicken

Classic comfort food meets a crispy, cheesy side.

4. Green Bean Almondine

A lighter vegetable side to add some freshness to the plate.

5. Fried Eggs (for breakfast!)

These potatoes make a hearty base for a savory breakfast bowl with eggs.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F to maintain crispiness.

Freezing: You can freeze the cooked, un-topped potatoes (before adding cheese and onions) for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven and add fresh cheese and toppings.

Make-Ahead Tip: You can roast the potatoes a day ahead, refrigerate, and then reheat with cheese and bacon just before serving.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 9g
• Fat: 19g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Cholesterol: 35mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Just skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika-roasted chickpeas for a similar savory bite.

What’s the best cheese to use besides cheddar?

Monterey Jack, smoked gouda, or Colby work wonderfully. Even a blend of cheeses can be delicious.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

Frozen diced potatoes can work in a pinch, but fresh ones deliver better texture and flavor when roasted.

How can I make it spicy?

Add chopped jalapeños, a sprinkle of cayenne, or use pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.

Can I make this in advance?

Yes. You can prep and roast the potatoes the day before. Just reheat them with cheese and bacon before serving.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes are more than just a side—they’re a full-on comfort experience. Whether you’re serving them for a casual dinner, potluck, or weekend brunch, they deliver bold flavor, crispy texture, and cheesy satisfaction in every bite. With easy substitutions and make-ahead options, this recipe is as flexible as it is indulgent. Once you try them, they’ll become a repeat favorite in your kitchen!

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