Mission BBQ Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

There’s something truly magical about walking into Mission BBQ and catching that irresistible aroma of smoky meats paired with their legendary cheesy potatoes.

If you’ve ever wished you could recreate that creamy, golden-crusted side dish at home, you’re in luck! This copycat Mission BBQ cheesy potatoes recipe delivers all the comfort and flavor of the restaurant favorite right in your own kitchen.

Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, potluck gathering, or simply craving that nostalgic taste, this Mission BBQ baked cheesy potatoes recipe will become your go-to comfort food staple.

What Does It Taste Like?

This best cheesy potatoes recipe offers an indulgent blend of creamy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors.

The tender hash brown potatoes are enveloped in a velvety sour cream and cream of chicken mixture, while sharp cheddar cheese adds a satisfying richness throughout. Each bite delivers a perfect contrast between the silky interior and the buttery, crispy cornflake topping that provides a delightful crunch.

The subtle hints of onion powder and black pepper add depth without overpowering the dish, creating a well-balanced, crowd-pleasing side that pairs beautifully with smoky barbecue flavors or stands proudly on its own.

Mission BBQ Cheesy Potatoes Recipe Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cheesy Potato Filling:

• 16 oz sour cream (about 2 cups)
• 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup (one standard can)
• 6 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder (or substitute with diced onions)
• 28 oz diced hash brown potatoes (frozen; thawed overnight in refrigerator)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

For the Crunchy Cornflake Topping:

• 2 cups cornflakes
• 4 tablespoons melted butter

Kitchen Utensils and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• 13×9-inch casserole dish or baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or large spoon for mixing
• Large Ziploc freezer bag (for crushing cornflakes)
• Oven mitts
• Cooling rack

Preparation and Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 10-12 servings

Mission BBQ Cheesy Potatoes Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and that perfect golden-brown top on your Mission BBQ potatoes recipe.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine 16 oz sour cream, the entire 10.5 oz can of cream of chicken soup, 6 tablespoons melted butter, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon onion powder. Whisk or stir until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated.

Step 3: Incorporate Potatoes and Cheese

Add the 28 oz thawed diced hash brown potatoes and 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese to the creamy mixture. Fold everything together thoroughly, ensuring every potato cube is coated in the rich, cheesy sauce. Use a very large bowl to prevent spillage.

Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spread the potato mixture evenly into your greased 13×9-inch casserole dish, creating a uniform layer for consistent cooking.

Step 5: Prepare the Signature Cornflake Topping

Place 2 cups of cornflakes into a large Ziploc freezer bag. Remove excess air, seal the bag, and gently crush the cornflakes with your hands or a rolling pin until they’re coarsely broken. Open the bag, pour in 4 tablespoons melted butter, reseal, and shake vigorously until the cornflakes are evenly coated.

Step 6: Add the Topping

Sprinkle the buttered crushed cornflakes evenly across the entire surface of the potato mixture, creating a generous layer that will crisp up beautifully.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the uncovered casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45 minutes, or until the edges are bubbling enthusiastically and the cornflake topping turns golden brown.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and allow the dish to rest for 10-15 minutes. This cooling period helps the casserole set properly, making it easier to serve while still warm.

Customization and Pairing Ideas for Serving

1. Loaded Baked Potato Style

Transform your cheesy potatoes recipe into a loaded masterpiece by topping individual servings with crispy bacon bits, sliced green onions, and an extra dollop of sour cream. This variation channels all the flavors of a classic loaded baked potato.

2. Spicy Southwest Twist

Add ½ cup diced green chiles, 1 teaspoon cumin, and substitute pepper jack cheese for half the cheddar. Top with crushed tortilla chips instead of cornflakes for a Tex-Mex inspired version that pairs wonderfully with brisket or pulled pork.

3. Herb Garden Enhancement

Incorporate fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the potato mixture. Add 2 tablespoons of fresh chives for a bright, oniony flavor that elevates the dish from simple comfort food to restaurant-quality side.

4. Three-Cheese Decadence

Mix different cheese varieties try combining sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan for a more sophisticated flavor profile. This creates incredible depth and complexity in every creamy bite.

5. BBQ Feast Pairing

Serve alongside smoked ribs, pulled pork sandwiches, brisket, or grilled chicken for the ultimate barbecue spread. If you’re searching “mission bbq near me” for inspiration, recreate the full experience at home by pairing with coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread.

6. Breakfast Casserole Conversion

Add cooked, crumbled breakfast sausage and scrambled eggs to transform this into a hearty morning dish. Perfect for brunch gatherings or holiday breakfast spreads.

7. Vegetarian-Friendly Adaptation

Substitute cream of mushroom soup for the cream of chicken, and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli florets to create a vegetable-forward version that’s equally satisfying and flavorful.

Essential Tips for Perfect Cheesy Potatoes

1. Thaw Potatoes Properly

Always thaw frozen hash browns overnight in the refrigerator rather than at room temperature. This prevents excess moisture that can make your Mission BBQ cheesy potatoes watery. If you’re short on time, spread them on a baking sheet for 30-45 minutes at room temperature.

2. Don’t Skip the Resting Time

That 10-15 minute cooling period after baking isn’t optional it allows the casserole to set properly so it doesn’t fall apart when served. The starches in the potatoes need this time to firm up, creating clean, beautiful servings.

3. Achieve the Perfect Cornflake Texture

Crush cornflakes to medium-coarse pieces, not fine crumbs. You want substantial texture that provides crunch. The butter coating is crucial it prevents the cornflakes from becoming soggy and ensures they toast to golden perfection.

4. Control the Creaminess

If you prefer a thicker consistency, reduce the sour cream by ¼ cup. For an even creamier Mission BBQ baked cheesy potatoes, add an extra 2-3 tablespoons of melted butter to the filling mixture.

5. Cheese Selection Matters

Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded packages. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Sharp or extra-sharp cheddar provides the most authentic Mission BBQ cheesy potatoes copycat recipe flavor.

6. Prevent Dry Edges

Cover the edges of your casserole dish with aluminum foil strips for the first 30 minutes of baking if your oven runs hot. Remove the foil for the final 15 minutes to allow proper browning without over-baking the perimeter.

7. Make-Ahead Strategy

Assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance, but wait to add the cornflake topping until just before baking. Store covered in the refrigerator, then add the topping and bake as directed (you may need an extra 5-10 minutes if baking directly from the fridge).

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store leftover cheesy potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or refresh the entire dish covered with foil in a 350°F oven for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.

Common Queries and FAQs

Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions about the Mission BBQ Cheesy Potatoes Recipe that people often ask.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes! Boil 8-10 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes), let them cool completely, then peel and dice into ½-inch cubes. Fresh potatoes create a slightly different texture a bit creamier and less structured than frozen hash browns, but equally delicious.

What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup?

Make a homemade substitute by whisking together 1 cup chicken broth, ½ cup heavy cream, and 2 tablespoons flour heated until thickened. Alternatively, use cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, or even a simple white sauce (béchamel) for a from-scratch approach.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole completely (without the cornflake topping), wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, add the cornflake topping, and bake as directed. You can also freeze individual portions for quick single servings.

Why is my casserole watery?

Excess moisture usually comes from not properly thawing and draining frozen hash browns. Make sure they’re completely thawed and pat them dry with paper towels before mixing. If using fresh potatoes, ensure they’re cooled and not still steaming when you add them to the mixture.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, but with modifications. Grease your slow cooker, add the potato mixture (without cornflakes), and cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 2 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the buttered cornflakes on top, cover again, and let them steam-toast slightly. For crispier topping, transfer to a baking dish and broil for 2-3 minutes.

What type of hash browns work best?

Diced (cubed) hash browns work best for authentic Mission BBQ cheesy potatoes texture. Shredded hash browns also work but create a denser, more cohesive casserole. O’Brien-style potatoes (with peppers and onions) add extra flavor and vegetables if you prefer a heartier version.

How do I prevent the top from burning?

Monitor your casserole during the last 15 minutes of baking. If the cornflakes are browning too quickly, loosely tent the dish with aluminum foil. Oven temperatures vary, so if yours runs hot, reduce the temperature to 325°F and extend baking time by 10-15 minutes.

Can I make this dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut cream or cashew cream for sour cream, use dairy-free cream soup (or make a cashew-based cream sauce), swap butter for vegan butter or olive oil, and use dairy-free cheddar shreds. The texture and flavor will differ slightly but can still be delicious.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The base recipe is gluten-free if you use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and verify your hash browns contain no additives. Replace cornflakes with crushed gluten-free cornflakes or substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs, crushed potato chips, or even crushed rice cereal.

How can I add more protein to this dish?

Stir in 2 cups of diced cooked ham, shredded rotisserie chicken, crumbled cooked bacon, or cooked breakfast sausage to transform this side dish into a complete one-dish meal. This works especially well for breakfast or brunch versions.

What size casserole dish should I use?

A standard 13×9-inch baking dish is perfect for this recipe. If you only have smaller dishes, you can divide the mixture between two 8×8-inch pans, or use a deep 9×9-inch dish (note that deeper dishes may require an additional 10-15 minutes of baking time).

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Double all ingredients and use two 13×9-inch dishes or one large roasting pan. Keep in mind that larger volumes may require slightly longer baking time check that the center is bubbling hot and the edges are golden before removing from the oven.

This copycat Mission BBQ cheesy potatoes recipe brings the comfort and satisfaction of your favorite barbecue restaurant right to your dinner table. With its creamy, cheesy interior and irresistibly crunchy cornflake topping, this dish proves that restaurant-quality sides are absolutely achievable at home.

Whether you’re serving it alongside smoked meats at your next cookout or enjoying it as a comforting weeknight side, these Mission BBQ baked cheesy potatoes are guaranteed to become a family favorite that you’ll make again and again. Happy cooking!

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