These smoked cheesy potatoes are a tasty treat! They’re filled with creamy cheese and seasoned to perfection, making every bite a joy. Plus, the smoky flavor adds a fun twist!
Honestly, I could eat these potatoes every day and never get bored! They pair perfectly with grilled meats or simply on their own. A big scoop of joy in every bite! 🥔❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using russet or Yukon gold for their creamy texture after cooking. If you’re in a pinch, red potatoes work too, but they’ll give a different consistency. I love russet for their fluffiness!
Cheddar Cheese: The sharp cheddar gives a nice flavor kick. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using reduced-fat cheese. For a twist, mix in some pepper jack for extra spice!
Sour Cream: Sour cream adds richness. You can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a healthier choice with a similar tang. I’ve done this and it works perfectly!
Cream of Chicken Soup: If you prefer a homemade version, mix together equal parts chicken broth and heavy cream, thickened with a bit of cornstarch. This also works for those avoiding canned goods.
Cornflakes: These are for that delightful crunch on top! If cereal isn’t your style, consider using panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers as a substitute. Both add great texture.
How Do I Ensure My Smoked Cheesy Potatoes Turn Out Perfectly?
The key to delicious smoked cheesy potatoes is ensuring your potatoes are tender and the top is crispy. Here’s how to nail this:
- Prepping Potatoes: Peel and dice them evenly for uniform cooking. The smaller the pieces, the faster they cook.
- Mixing Ingredients: Make sure everything is well combined. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Smoking Time: Keep an eye on the time. Smoking at 225°F (107°C) takes about 2-2.5 hours. Use a fork to check if the potatoes are soft—if they are, you’re all set!
- Crispy Topping: The crushed cornflakes should be spread evenly to cover the mixture. This gives you that golden-crunchy finish. Avoid adding them too early; put them on for the last half hour of smoking.
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potato Mixture:
- 4 lbs potatoes (russet or Yukon gold), peeled and diced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup (or homemade equivalent)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups cornflakes, crushed
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time, plus 2 to 2.5 hours of smoking time. You’ll mix the ingredients together and let your smoker do the work while you relax. It’s easy to prepare and results in a flavorful side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). This low and slow cooking method will bring out all those wonderful flavors in the potatoes.
2. Mix the Potato Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. This is where the creamy goodness begins!
3. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Transfer the potato mixture into a greased aluminum pan or a baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely. You want to make sure every bite has that cheesy flavor.
4. Add the Crunchy Topping:
Sprinkle the crushed cornflakes over the top of the potato mixture. This will create a deliciously crunchy layer when it’s done smoking. Yum!
5. Smoke the Potatoes:
Carefully place the pan in the smoker. Let it smoke for about 2 to 2.5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the potatoes are tender and the top is a lovely golden brown.
6. Rest Before Serving:
Once cooked, take the pan out of the smoker and let it sit for about 10 minutes. This helps everything settle together, making it easier to serve.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color before serving. Then, dig in and enjoy your delicious Smoked Cheesy Potatoes! Perfect as a side dish for any meal.
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar is classic, you can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella for stretchiness, Monterey Jack for extra flavor, or even Pepper Jack for a spicy kick. Just remember to adjust the quantity so you still have about 2 cups of cheese total.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Chicken Soup?
No problem! You can make your own by mixing 1 cup of chicken broth with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, stirring until thickened. Alternatively, use a can of cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian option, or even a homemade cheese sauce if you prefer a cheesy twist!
How Can I Store Leftover Smoked Cheesy Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can add a splash of milk to rehydrate if it seems a bit dry!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can! Prepare the potato mixture a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the crushed cornflakes and smoke it the following day. This makes it a convenient dish for gatherings or meal prep!
