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Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe

4.8 from 112 reviews

Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a decadent and comforting side dish featuring creamy mashed russet potatoes blended with a rich, cheesy sauce made of sharp cheddar and mozzarella. Enhanced with a blend of savory seasonings and baked to golden perfection with a crispy topping of fried onions, this dish combines velvety textures with bold flavors, perfect for family dinners or holiday feasts.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed

Cheesy Cream Sauce

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or more, to taste)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Salt, to taste

Toppings and Garnish

  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/2 cup crispy fried onions (optional, for topping)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for greasing the baking dish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed russet potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot, mashing with a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth or slightly chunky as preferred.
  2. Make the Cheesy Mixture: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sour cream and heavy cream, stirring constantly, and warm for 2-3 minutes. Incorporate the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted into a smooth sauce. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt, mixing well to combine all flavors.
  3. Combine and Prepare for Baking: Pour the cheese sauce over the mashed potatoes and stir until fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or butter. Transfer the cheesy mashed potato mixture into the dish, spreading evenly. Optionally, sprinkle crispy fried onions on top for added crunch.
  4. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish inside and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
  5. Serve: Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions for freshness and color. Serve as a flavorful side dish alongside your favorite main course or enjoy on its own.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use full-fat sour cream and heavy cream.
  • You can customize the cheese blend by adding Monterey Jack or Parmesan.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
  • To make it gluten-free, ensure the crispy fried onions topping is gluten-free or omit it.
  • Adjust the seasoning to taste, particularly salt and pepper, after combining the cheese sauce and potatoes.

Keywords: Cheesy mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, southern side dish, comfort food, cheddar cheese potatoes, holiday side dish