1-First step: Prep the oven and bacon Heat the oven to 400°F so it is ready when the potato mixture is assembled. Place the chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat and cook it for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring now and then, until it is crisp. Transfer the cooked bacon to a bowl and set it aside. This step builds the smoky base flavor that makes Mississippi Mud Potatoes so satisfying.

2-Second step: Mix the potato filling In a large mixing bowl, stir together the diced potatoes, mayonnaise, 3 ounces of the shredded cheddar, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix until every potato piece is lightly coated. The mayonnaise helps hold everything together and gives the dish its creamy texture. If you want a tangier version, you can swap in full-fat sour cream here without changing the rest of the method.

3-Third step: Add bacon and transfer to the skillet Mix in half of the cooked bacon so the flavor spreads through the potatoes instead of sitting only on top. Transfer the mixture to a 10-inch cast iron skillet or another broiler-safe skillet and spread it out evenly. Press the mixture gently so it bakes in a fairly level layer. That helps the potatoes cook at the same pace and gives the top a nice surface for browning later.

4-Fourth step: Bake until tender Place the skillet in the oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The exact time can vary a little depending on how large your potato dice are. If you like extra soft potatoes, let the dish bake a few minutes longer, but keep an eye on the top so it does not dry out. This is where the dish starts to smell like a true southern side dish.

5-Fifth step: Add cheese and broil Remove the skillet from the oven and sprinkle the remaining 3 ounces of cheddar over the top. Turn the broiler on and broil for about 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and turns lightly browned. Watch it closely because broilers can brown food fast. This is the step that gives these crispy cheesy Mississippi Mud Potatoes that tempting golden finish.

6-Final step: Rest, garnish, and serve Let the skillet cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This short rest helps the potatoes settle and makes scooping easier. Finish with the remaining bacon and the chopped chives for a fresh pop of color. Serve warm as a side with grilled meat, roast chicken, or a simple weeknight main. Since the recipe is naturally low in fuss, it fits right in with busy family dinners, potlucks, and holiday tables.