Smoked cheesy potatoes are a warm and tasty dish that combines creamy cheese and tender potatoes, all kissed by smoky flavor. It’s comfort food at its best!
There’s something magical about that cheesy goodness with a hint of smoke. Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in. I can’t resist scooping seconds—so cheesy, so yummy! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great because they become fluffy when cooked. However, Yukon Golds are a fantastic alternative if you want a creamier texture. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
Sour Cream: You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream if you’re looking for a healthier option or even a dairy-free sour cream alternative for lactose intolerance. Both work well in adding creaminess.
Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheese: I love this combo for flavor and meltiness! If you want to change things up, try pepper jack for a little heat or Monterey jack for a milder taste. Just remember to stick to cheeses that melt nicely.
Cornflakes: They add a nice crunch, but crushed Ritz crackers or even panko breadcrumbs can work too! Just mix with butter for that same crispy topping.
How Do I Cook the Potatoes Perfectly?
Cooking the potatoes just right is crucial for this dish. You want them tender but not falling apart. Here’s how to do it:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the diced russet potatoes and boil for about 10-15 minutes, checking for tenderness with a fork.
- Once they’re tender, drain them and let them cool slightly. This helps them hold their shape in the casserole.
Taking care at this step means you’ll have the perfect potato texture that’s not too mushy in your smoky dish! Enjoy making these tasty potatoes!
Delicious Smoked Cheesy Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Mixture:
- 3 pounds of russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 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 crushed cornflakes
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious smoked cheesy potatoes dish will take about 10-15 minutes to prepare, plus 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking in the smoker. In total, you’re looking at around 2.5 hours to create a cheesy masterpiece that’s perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). This low and slow method will give your potatoes a delicious smoky flavor.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large pot, fill it with water and bring it to a boil. Add your diced potatoes and cook them until they’re just tender, which should take about 10-15 minutes. Once done, drain the potatoes and set them aside.
3. Make the Cheese Mixture:
Grab a large mixing bowl and add in the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, milk, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and smooth.
4. Combine Potatoes and Cheese:
Gently fold the cooked potatoes into the cheese mixture, making sure the potatoes are well coated with that creamy goodness.
5. Transfer to Baking Dish:
Now, transfer your potato and cheese mixture into a large disposable aluminum pan or a casserole dish, spreading it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter. This will create a crunchy topping! Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the potato casserole.
7. Smoke the Casserole:
Place the dish in the preheated smoker and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and the cornflakes look golden brown. It’s going to smell amazing!
8. Let it Rest:
Once your dish is done smoking, carefully remove it from the smoker and let it sit for about 10 minutes to cool slightly.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your masterpiece with some chopped fresh parsley to add a pop of color. Enjoy your delicious smoked cheesy potatoes as a fantastic side dish for family meals or gatherings!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are great for this dish due to their fluffy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly; check for tenderness during boiling!
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian option, or make a homemade version with equal parts milk and flour thickened on the stove with some spices. This will keep your dish creamy!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of milk to keep the texture creamy during reheating!
Can I Add Extra Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in some steamed broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure any vegetables you add are cooked beforehand so they don’t release too much moisture during smoking!
