Southern Potatoes (White) Casserole

8 servings Prep: 20 m Cook: 55 m Total: 1 h 15 m Beginner
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Mouth-watering hearty potato casserole loaded with bacon, Monterey Jack cheese, and a creamy Miracle Whip dressing! New potatoes are boiled tender, then mixed with crispy bacon and onions before baking to bubbly perfection.

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 3-4 lbs new or small potatoes
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 lb bacon
  • 2 cups Monterey Jack shredded cheese
  • 1 cup Miracle Whip
  • 1/2 cup sugar (optional)
  • 1 hot pepper (optional)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Boil potatoes in their jackets until done, about 20-25 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. While potatoes are cooking, fry bacon until crispy and drain on paper towels.
  3. Quarter the cooked potatoes and add to a large bowl along with crumbled bacon, Miracle Whip, 1 cup cheese, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and sugar if using. Stir ingredients until mixed well.
  4. Spoon into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Top with remaining 1 cup cheese.
  5. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes in a 400°F oven until hot and bubbly. Do not brown the cheese.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why are my potatoes mushy in the casserole?

A: Don't overcook the potatoes during boiling - they should be just tender when pierced with a fork. They'll continue cooking in the oven, so slightly underdone is better than overdone. Drain them well and let them cool slightly before mixing to help them hold their shape.

Q: Can I skip the sugar?

A: Absolutely! The sugar is optional and adds a Southern sweet-savory touch. Many people make this without it for a more traditional savory casserole. Start without it and add it next time if you want that sweet contrast.

Q: Why does the recipe say not to brown the cheese?

A: You want the cheese melted and bubbly but not browned or crispy. Overbaking can make the top tough and the Miracle Whip mixture can separate if it gets too hot. Watch it closely once the cheese melts.

Tips and Techniques

You can boil the potatoes and fry the bacon ahead of time, then assemble and bake when ready to serve. The hot pepper is optional but a diced jalapeño adds a nice kick if you want some heat.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • Miracle Whip: mayonnaise
  • Monterey Jack cheese: cheddar cheese or a Mexican cheese blend
  • new potatoes: red potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes

Equipment Needed

  • large pot for boiling potatoes
  • skillet for frying bacon
  • large mixing bowl
  • 9x13 inch baking dish