Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe
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.
- Author: Naya
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes boiling + 30 minutes baking
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Southern
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)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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