Dickey’s Baked Potato Casserole: Copycat Recipe

This copycat recipe for Dickey’s Baked Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Warm, cheesy and oh so easy to make at home!

If you’re a fan of finger-licking barbecue and scrumptious sides, then you’ve probably already heard of Dickey’s Barbecue Pit.

But hold on to your taste buds, because we’re about to dive into one of their mouthwatering creations that’ll make your heart sing – the legendary Dickey’s Baked Potato Casserole.

Get ready for a flavor-packed journey that combines the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes with the irresistible allure of bacon, cheese, and more.

Jump to:

• Why you’ll love this Dickey’s Baked Potato Casserole recipe
• What ingredients do you need to make this recipe
• Variations and customizations
• Substitutions
• Tips for making the best potato casserole
• How to refrigerate, freeze and thaw
• What to serve with Dickey’s Baked Potato Casserole
• Dickey’s Baked Potato Casserole

So, if you’re craving comfort food with a barbecue twist, stick around as we explore this tantalizing recipe that’s about to become your new culinary crush.

Why you’ll love this Dickey’s Baked Potato Casserole recipe

1. Creamy Potato Dream: Who can resist the velvety goodness of perfectly mashed potatoes? This recipe takes those humble spuds and transforms them into a creamy canvas of flavor. With a mix of butter, sour cream, and milk, each spoonful promises a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth experience that’ll have you savoring every bite.
2. Bacon Bliss: Bacon lovers, rejoice! This casserole doesn’t hold back on the bacon bits. With smoky, savory goodness in every forkful, the crispy bacon bits bring an irresistible crunch and a burst of flavor that beautifully complements the creamy potatoes. It’s a harmonious dance of textures that’ll keep you coming back for more.
3. Cheesy Delight: Let’s talk cheese, shall we? The generous sprinkle of shredded Cheddar over the casserole creates a gooey, golden layer that’s simply heavenly. As it bakes, the cheese melts into a gooey perfection, forming a deliciously cheesy crown that ties together all the flavors in a harmonious symphony of taste.

So there you have it: the comfort of mashed potatoes, the smokiness of bacon, and the indulgence of melted cheese – all packed into one glorious dish.

What ingredients do you need to make this recipe

• Russet Potatoes: These are the heroes of the dish, bringing a starchy and earthy quality. They’re the base of the casserole, providing a hearty and comforting foundation.
• Butter: Creamy and indulgent, butter adds richness and a velvety texture to the mashed potato mixture. It contributes a luxurious mouthfeel that balances out the flavors.
• Sour Cream: This ingredient brings a tangy and slightly tart note to the casserole. It enhances the creaminess of the mashed potatoes while providing a subtle zing that cuts through the richness.
• Milk: Milk is used to create the desired consistency of the mashed potato mixture. It adds a touch of moisture and helps in achieving that perfect creamy texture.
• Salt: The unsung hero of seasoning, salt enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes and other ingredients. It’s essential for balancing the taste and bringing out the full range of flavors.
• Ground Black Pepper: This ingredient adds a gentle kick of warmth and a subtle earthy depth to the casserole. It complements the other flavors and contributes to the overall savory profile.
• Bacon Bits: Crispy, smoky, and utterly irresistible, bacon bits bring a burst of umami flavor and a satisfying crunch to every bite. They add a layer of savory decadence that pairs harmoniously with the other components.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: The cheese takes the dish to another level of comfort. When melted, it forms a gooey and stretchy blanket over the casserole, infusing each forkful with a rich and cheesy goodness.
• Sliced Green Onion Tops: These provide a fresh and vibrant element to the casserole. With their mild onion flavor, they add a hint of pungency and a pop of color that contrasts beautifully with the other ingredients.

Variations and customizations

1. Loaded Veggie Delight: For a vegetarian twist, swap out the bacon bits and incorporate a medley of sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini. You can also add some roasted garlic for extra depth of flavor. Top the casserole with a blend of different cheeses like mozzarella, Parmesan, and feta for a melty and cheesy finish.
2. Tex-Mex Fusion: Give the casserole a Tex-Mex makeover by mixing in diced green chilies, corn kernels, and black beans into the mashed potatoes. Season with cumin, chili powder, and a touch of lime juice for a zesty kick. Instead of Cheddar cheese, opt for a blend of Monterey Jack and pepper jack cheese for that signature Tex-Mex meltiness.
3. Mediterranean Medley: Infuse the dish with Mediterranean flavors by incorporating chopped sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese into the mashed potato mixture. Season with oregano, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. Consider topping the casserole with a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added crunch and a touch of nuttiness.

Substitutions

1. Dairy-Free:

• Instead of butter: Use a dairy-free butter substitute or margarine.
• Instead of sour cream: Opt for a plant-based sour cream alternative, such as coconut or almond-based versions.
• Instead of milk: Use a non-dairy milk, like almond, soy, oat, or coconut milk.

1. Turkey Bacon Twist:

• Instead of bacon bits: Swap in turkey bacon bits for a leaner alternative. These still offer that smoky, savory flavor without the pork.

1. Vegan Cheesy:

• Instead of Cheddar cheese: Choose a vegan cheese alternative, like shredded vegan cheddar or a homemade nut-based cheese.
• Instead of butter and sour cream: Continue with the dairy-free substitutes mentioned earlier.
• Instead of bacon bits: Try crispy, seasoned tofu crumbles for a plant-based and protein-packed bacon substitute.

Remember, these substitutions can alter the final taste and texture of the dish, so it’s a good idea to experiment and adjust the quantities to your liking.

Tips for making the best potato casserole

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for russet potatoes, as they have a higher starch content, which results in a creamier texture when mashed.
2. Baking the Potatoes: Make sure to scrub the potatoes clean before baking. Baking at a higher temperature initially (425°F) helps to create a crispy skin, while reducing the temperature (350°F) later ensures the potatoes cook evenly and thoroughly.
3. Perfectly Mashed Potatoes: Use an electric mixer to ensure smooth and lump-free mashed potatoes. Mix the butter, sour cream, and milk gradually to achieve the desired creamy consistency.
4. Season Gradually: When adding salt and pepper, start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste. You can always add more, but it’s difficult to correct an overly seasoned dish.
5. Bacon Bits and Cheese Distribution: Ensure an even distribution of bacon bits and shredded cheese throughout the mashed potato mixture. This way, you’ll get a burst of flavor in every bite

How to refrigerate, freeze and thaw

Certainly, here’s how to properly store, freeze, and thaw Dickey’s Baked Potato Casserole:

Refrigerating Baked Potato Casserole:

1. Allow the baked potato casserole to cool to room temperature after baking.
2. If there are leftovers, cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
3. Place the covered casserole in the refrigerator. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Baked Potato Casserole:

1. If you plan to freeze the casserole, it’s best to do so before baking.
2. Assemble the casserole according to the recipe, up until the point of baking.
3. Instead of baking, cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure it’s well sealed to prevent freezer burn.
4. Place the wrapped casserole in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Thawing and Reheating Baked Potato Casserole:

1. To thaw a frozen, unbaked casserole, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator. Allow it to thaw slowly in the fridge for about 24-48 hours.
2. Once thawed, you can bake the casserole following the recipe’s instructions. You might need to adjust the baking time slightly, as it may take a bit longer due to being cold from the fridge.
3. If you have leftovers of a baked casserole that you want to reheat, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning, and reheat it in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s heated through.

Remember that freezing and thawing can sometimes alter the texture of dishes, and while reheating, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on the casserole to ensure it doesn’t overcook or dry out. Enjoy your casserole leftovers with the same delicious flavors, whether you’re reheating from the refrigerator or from the freezer!

What to serve with Dickey’s Baked Potato Casserole

1. Smoked Barbecue Ribs: The classic combination! Serve the casserole alongside a platter of succulent smoked barbecue ribs. The creamy texture of the casserole complements the tender, smoky meat beautifully.
2. Grilled Chicken: Grilled or roasted chicken breasts or thighs make a fantastic protein pairing. The casserole adds a comforting touch to the meal while the chicken provides a savory and satisfying contrast.
3. Pulled Pork Sandwiches: Create irresistible pulled pork sandwiches by placing tender pulled pork between soft buns. The casserole adds a creamy and cheesy element to the meal.
4. Grilled Steak: A perfectly grilled steak pairs wonderfully with the casserole’s creamy texture. The steak’s charred crust and juicy interior balance out the dish.
5. Smoked Sausages: Serve smoked sausages with the casserole for a hearty and flavorful meal. The combination offers a mix of textures and flavors that will satisfy any appetite.
6. Grilled Vegetables: A side of grilled or roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms, adds freshness and color to the plate. The casserole’s richness complements the vegetables’ natural sweetness.
7. Cornbread: The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread is an excellent accompaniment to the casserole. It adds another layer of comfort to the meal.
8. Cole Slaw: A refreshing and tangy coleslaw balances the richness of the casserole. The contrast in flavors and textures creates a well-rounded meal.