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Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes Recipe

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4.9 from 116 reviews

Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes are a decadent, creamy mashed potato casserole loaded with sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese, garlic and onion powders, paprika, and green onions. This dish combines fluffy russet potatoes with rich sour cream, heavy cream, and butter, baked to melty perfection and topped with crispy fried onions for an irresistible side.

Ingredients

Potatoes and Dairy

  • 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 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
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (for greasing the baking dish)

Seasonings and Toppings

  • 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)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the potatoes: Peel and cube the russet potatoes into even-sized pieces to ensure uniform cooking. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt, then bring to a boil over medium-high heat, cooking until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
  2. Mash the potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Add the unsalted butter while the potatoes are still hot and mash until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add the creamy ingredients and seasonings: Stir in the sour cream, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt to taste. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated and the mixture has a velvety texture.
  4. Mix in cheeses and green onions: Fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and chopped green onions, reserving a small amount of cheese for topping if desired.
  5. Prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or butter to prevent sticking.
  6. Assemble and bake: Transfer the cheesy mashed potato mixture to the prepared baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula, sprinkle any reserved cheese over the top, and add the crispy fried onions if using. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and the casserole is heated through and bubbly.
  7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. These Cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes make a perfect side dish for dinner parties, holiday meals, or comfort food nights.

Notes

  • You can adjust the amount and types of cheese for different flavors; gouda or Monterey Jack work well too.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use low-fat sour cream.
  • To make this dish gluten-free, omit the crispy fried onion topping or use a gluten-free variety.
  • For extra creaminess, add a splash more heavy cream or milk when mashing.
  • Make ahead by preparing the potatoes and mixture a day in advance; refrigerate and bake before serving.