Smoked cheesy potatoes are creamy and comforting, with a delightful smoky flavor. Loaded with gooey cheese and tender potatoes, this dish is perfect for any gathering!
Whenever I make these, my friends can’t get enough! I love how easy they are to whip up, and they always steal the spotlight. Who knew cheesy potatoes could be so fun? 😄
Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for this dish as they become fluffy when cooked. If you prefer, Yukon Golds can work too for a creamier texture. Just avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes.
Sour Cream: This adds tang and creaminess! If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a perfect substitute with similar flavors.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a nice bite, while mozzarella adds stretch. Feel free to swap either for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Cream of Chicken Soup: If you need a vegetarian option, try cream of mushroom soup. It still provides a creamy base without chicken.
Cornflakes: For the topping, if you want a gluten-free option, use crushed rice cereal or gluten-free breadcrumbs for that nice crunch.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure My Potatoes Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the potatoes until they are just tender is key. Overcooking makes them mushy when mixed with other ingredients. Aim for 10-15 minutes in boiling water, then drain them well.
- Check for tenderness by poking with a fork; they should be soft but not falling apart.
- Allow them to cool slightly before mixing. This helps them retain their shape.
Following these steps will give you that perfect balance of creamy inside and a delightful crunch on top!
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potatoes:
- 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Crunchy Topping:
- 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious smoked cheesy potato dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 2-3 hours to cook in the smoker. The potatoes need about 10-15 minutes to boil first. You’ll spend some time mixing and assembling, and then just let the smoker do its magic!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). This low and slow cooking is what gives the potatoes their amazing smoky flavor!
2. Cook the Potatoes:
In a large pot, bring some water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook them until they’re tender, which should take about 10-15 minutes. Once they’re done, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Creamy Mixture:
While the potatoes are cooling, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the sour cream, sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Potatoes and Creamy Mixture:
Now, gently fold the cooked potatoes into the creamy mixture you just made. Make sure all the potatoes are nicely coated so they are full of cheesy goodness!
5. Assemble in a Pan:
Transfer the potato mixture into a greased disposable aluminum pan. This will make cleanup easy after you’re done cooking.
6. Add the Crunchy Topping:
In a smaller bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter. Once combined, sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over the potato mixture in the pan. This will create a deliciously crispy layer on top!
7. Smoke the Potatoes:
Place the aluminum pan in the preheated smoker. Let it cook for about 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and the topping has turned a beautiful golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the pan from the smoker and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your deliciously smoky, cheesy potato dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and mozzarella give great flavor and texture, you can experiment with other cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for some extra spice. Just ensure the cheese you choose melts well!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Sour Cream?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor, or use cream cheese in a greater amount for a creamier texture. If you prefer a lighter option, consider using a mixture of milk and lemon juice to mimic the tanginess.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave, making sure to add a splash of milk to keep them moist.
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Pre-Cooked?
Yes! If you prefer to use fresh potatoes, you can smoke them directly without pre-cooking. Just slice them thinner and extend the smoking time by about 30-45 minutes to ensure they become tender and absorb the smoky flavor!
