Smoked Cheesy Potatoes are a delicious side dish loaded with creamy cheese and smoky flavor. The tender potatoes get all cozy with cheese as they bake to golden perfection.
The best part? You can enjoy them at barbecues or family dinners! I love serving these with grilled meats, and honestly, who can resist that gooey cheese? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I like using Russet potatoes for their fluffy texture. However, Yukon Gold can also work well as they’re creamier. If you’re looking to cut carbs, you might try cauliflower, but it’ll change the taste.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess, but Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute. I’ve used it with great results, and it retains that tangy flavor!
Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheeses: These cheeses really give that gooey, cheesy goodness. If you’re dairy free, try vegan cheese alternatives. They melt differently, but can still be delicious!
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is classic, but you could use cream of mushroom for a different flavor. Homemade versions can be healthier and are easy to whip up using broth and milk.
Corn Flakes: For the topping, this gives a nice crunch. If you want a healthier option, crushed whole grain crackers or even panko bread crumbs can work nicely.
How Can You Ensure the Potatoes Are Cooked Just Right?
Cooking the potatoes properly is key for a creamy dish. Boil them until fork-tender, which means they should easily slide off a fork when pierced. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a pot of salted water and add cubed potatoes.
- Boil for 10-15 minutes. To test, insert a fork—if it goes in easily, they’re ready!
- Don’t overcook! If they’re mushy, the dish won’t come together well. Just drain and set aside.
What’s the Best Way to Mix the Cheesy Potato Mixture?
Mixing is important for even flavor throughout. Gently fold the potatoes into the cheese mixture to keep them intact. Here’s my tip:
- Use a spatula to scoop from the bottom and fold over the top. This keeps the potatoes from breaking apart.
- Make sure every potato piece is coated for an even cheesy flavor.
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Mixture:
- 3 pounds of potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cream of chicken soup (or homemade if you prefer)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 cups corn flakes, crushed
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10-15 minutes for prep time and around 1.5 to 2 hours to cook in the smoker. So, you’ll be ready to enjoy this rich and cheesy dish in about 2 to 2.5 hours total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). This steady heat will give your potatoes a lovely smoky flavor while they cook.
2. Boil the Potatoes:
In a large pot, bring some salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook them until they are fork-tender, which should take about 10-15 minutes. Once they’re ready, drain the potatoes and set them aside.
3. Mix the Cheesy Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, cream of chicken soup, milk, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
4. Combine and Coat:
Carefully fold the drained potatoes into the cheesy mixture, making sure to coat all the potato pieces well so every bite is deliciously cheesy!
5. Transfer to the Pan:
Grease a 9×13-inch aluminum pan (or a similar size) and pour the potato and cheese mixture into it, spreading it out evenly.
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed corn flakes with the melted butter until the corn flakes are well coated. Sprinkle this crunchy mixture evenly over the top of the potato dish.
7. Smoke the Dish:
Carefully place the pan in the smoker. Let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the topping is golden brown and bubbly, and the dish is heated through.
8. Let it Rest:
Once your Smoked Cheesy Potatoes are done, take the pan out of the smoker and let it sit for a few minutes. This will help everything settle down a bit before serving.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Then, scoop out and enjoy your delicious smoked cheesy creation!
Enjoy your delicious Smoked Cheesy Potatoes as a perfect side dish for any gathering!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are great for their fluffy texture, you can also use Yukon gold or red potatoes for a creamier result. Just make sure they’re peeled and cubed to ensure even cooking!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish, cover it with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before smoking. When you’re ready to cook, just remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the smoker.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through or use the microwave if you prefer a quicker option!
Can I Substitute the Sour Cream?
Yes! You can use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative or even cream cheese for a richer flavor. Just make sure to adjust the milk to get the desired consistency if needed.
