Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a delicious, hearty dish with creamy potatoes topped with a rich, flavorful sauce. This dish typically features mashed potatoes combined with a savory sauce made with ranch, butter, and seasonings, and often topped with cheese. Here’s a simple recipe for Mississippi Mud Potatoes:
Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup milk or heavy cream
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
- ¼ cup cooked, crumbled bacon (optional, for extra flavor)
Directions:
- Cook the potatoes:
- In a large pot, bring the diced potatoes to a boil in salted water. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Mash the potatoes:
- Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or use an electric mixer for a smoother texture. Add butter, milk (or cream), ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Continue mashing until the potatoes are smooth and creamy.
- Add the cheese and sour cream:
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese (reserving some for topping) and sour cream, mixing until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Transfer to a baking dish:
- Transfer the mashed potato mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing the top.
- Top with cheese and bacon:
- Sprinkle the reserved shredded cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes. If using, sprinkle crumbled bacon over the cheese.
- Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are heated through.
- Garnish and serve:
- Once out of the oven, garnish with chopped green onions (if using) and serve hot.
Tips:
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the mashed potatoes up to the baking step and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just add a little extra time in the oven to heat them through.
- Custom toppings: Feel free to add additional toppings like shredded mozzarella cheese, or even sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
- For a spicier twist: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the mashed potatoes for some heat.
Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a comforting, cheesy, and flavorful side dish that will definitely be a hit at your next dinner or gathering! Enjoy!