Smoked Cheesy Potatoes are a warm and tasty side dish everyone loves! With soft potatoes, creamy cheese, and a hint of smokiness, they are perfect for any meal. Yum!
Who knew potatoes could be so exciting? I like to make a big batch because they disappear fast—friends and family can’t resist grabbing seconds! 🍽️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for a creamy texture. If you’re in a pinch, red potatoes can also work, but they won’t be as fluffy.
Sour Cream: Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a tangy flavor and creaminess. If you prefer a lighter option, low-fat sour cream works too.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick, but feel free to mix in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for something a bit different.
Cream of Chicken Soup: You can choose cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option or even homemade white sauce. Both provide creaminess.
Smoked Cheese: Smoked gouda or cheddar adds a great flavor. If you can’t find them, try using regular gouda or cheddar and add a touch of liquid smoke for flavor.
Cornflakes: Instead of cornflakes, Panko breadcrumbs or crushed crackers can provide a nice crunchy topping as well.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Ingredients?
To ensure your smoked cheesy potatoes turn out delicious, focus on maximizing the flavors of each ingredient. Start with salting your boiling water for the potatoes; it helps season them from the inside out.
When mixing the filling, combine it well to ensure every bite is flavorful. Don’t rush the mixing step; it really pays off later!
- Ensure your cheese is shredded well. Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
- Let the mixture sit for a few minutes after combining it with the potatoes. This helps the flavors meld.
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Mixture:
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 6 medium potatoes)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option)
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup smoked cheese (such as smoked gouda or smoked cheddar), shredded
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious smoked cheesy potatoes recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 to 1.5 hours to cook in the smoker. You’ll start with some quick prep work like peeling and chopping vegetables, then let the smoker do the rest. Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Begin by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). This low temperature will help infuse the smoky flavor into your potatoes.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
In a large pot, fill it with salted water and bring it to a boil. Carefully add the cubed potatoes and cook them until they are tender, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes. Once they’re done, drain the potatoes and set them aside.
3. Make the Cheesy Mixture:
In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix all these ingredients together until they form a creamy mixture.
4. Combine Potatoes with the Mixture:
Gently fold the cooked potatoes into the cheesy mix you just prepared. Ensure that the potatoes are evenly coated with that delicious mixture!
5. Transfer to the Smoker:
Grab a large aluminum foil pan for easy transfer to and from the smoker. Carefully pour the potato mixture into the pan, spreading it out evenly.
6. Prepare the Cornflake Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter. Once combined, sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the potato mixture to add a crunchy layer.
7. Add the Smoked Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded smoked cheese over the cornflake layer. This is where the smoky, cheesy goodness really comes in!
8. Smoke the Potatoes:
Carefully place the foil pan in the smoker. Let it cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it’s heated through and the top is nice and golden brown and crispy.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the pan out of the smoker and let it cool slightly. Just before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top to garnish. Now your rich, cheesy, and smoky potatoes are ready to be enjoyed!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of smoked cheese, you can use regular cheddar cheese or any cheese you like such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of heat. Just keep the total amount of cheese the same to maintain the recipe’s creamy texture.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the potato mixture and topping the day before. Just store it in the refrigerator and pop it in the smoker straight from the fridge. It may need a little extra time to cook since it will be colder!
How Should I Store Leftover Smoked Cheesy Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option!
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables such as cooked broccoli, bell peppers, or even corn. Just ensure that any added veggies are cooked beforehand to avoid altering the cooking time too much.
