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Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe

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4.8 from 109 reviews

Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a creamy, cheesy, and comforting side dish made with fluffy russet potatoes, a blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, sour cream, and flavorful seasonings. This baked casserole features layers of rich dairy and spices, topped with crispy fried onions for an irresistible crunch, making it the perfect indulgent accompaniment for any meal.

Ingredients

Potatoes and Dairy

  • 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Cheeses

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or more, to taste)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Seasonings and Add-ins

  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Salt, to taste
  • 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: Peel and cube 3 pounds of russet potatoes into evenly sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water.
  2. Boil the Potatoes: Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat and cook the potatoes until they are tender when pierced with a fork, approximately 15-20 minutes. Drain thoroughly once cooked.
  3. Mash the Potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Add 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup sour cream, and 1 cup heavy cream. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add Seasonings and Cheeses: Stir in 2 teaspoons garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, and salt to taste. Then, fold in 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, and 1/4 cup chopped green onions, mixing until evenly combined.
  5. Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
  6. Assemble and Bake: Transfer the cheesy mashed potato mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Optionally, sprinkle 1/2 cup crispy fried onions over the top for added texture. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is golden brown.
  7. Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional green onions if desired. Enjoy as a hearty and delicious side dish!

Notes

  • Russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content, creating fluffy mashed potatoes.
  • Adjust the amount and type of cheese according to taste preferences; other melting cheeses can be used.
  • If you prefer a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with milk and reduce the butter slightly.
  • The crispy fried onions on top are optional but add a delightful crunch.
  • Ensure you don’t over-mash the potatoes to keep some texture.
  • This dish can be prepared a day ahead and reheated in the oven for convenience.