Smoked Cheesy Potatoes are a delightful mix of creamy cheese and tender potatoes, all infused with a yummy smoky flavor. They’re cheesy, comforting, and perfect for gatherings!
Honestly, who can resist melted cheese? I love serving these at BBQs. They’re easy to whip up and always get devoured! Just be ready to share the recipe; everyone will ask for it! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are great for their starchy texture that makes them fluffy inside. If you need a quicker-cooking option, try Yukon Golds—they’re creamier and don’t need peeling!
Sour Cream: Adds tang and creaminess. For a healthier twist, you can use Greek yogurt instead. It has that similar tang and a bunch of protein!
Cream of Chicken Soup: This helps bind everything together. If you’re vegetarian, consider using cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce to keep the creaminess and flavor.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella offer great taste and texture. Feel free to switch it up with pepper jack for a kick or gouda for a smoky flavor. Just keep the total cheese amount the same!
Green Onions: Adds a fresh touch. If you don’t have them, chives or even diced yellow onions can work. Just make sure to sauté the onions first for a milder flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Tender and Fluffy?
Boiling the potatoes correctly is key to a great texture. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Use a large pot with plenty of salted water to cover the potatoes. This helps to season them while cooking.
- Cut the potatoes into even-sized pieces so they cook at the same rate.
- Boil them until fork-tender, usually 15-20 minutes. A fork should slide in easily, but they shouldn’t be mushy!
- Drain well and let them sit for a minute to steam off excess water. This helps your dish avoid being too watery.
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Mixture:
- 3 pounds 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
- ½ cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15-20 minutes for preparation and an additional 1.5 to 2 hours for cooking in the smoker. So in total, you should set aside about 2 to 2.5 hours to make these tasty smoked cheesy potatoes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). This low and slow method will give your potatoes that wonderful smoky flavor.
2. Cooking the Potatoes:
In a large pot, add your diced potatoes and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt and bring the pot to a boil. Cook the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender. Once they’re cooked, drain the water and set the potatoes aside.
3. Mixing the Cheese Mixture:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, green onions (if you’re using them), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
4. Combining Ingredients:
Now, it’s time to add your cooked potatoes to the cheese mixture. Gently stir everything together until the potatoes are nicely coated in the cheesy goodness.
5. Preparing for Smoking:
Transfer your potato mixture into a disposable aluminum pan or a heatproof dish that’s safe for the smoker. Make sure it’s spread out evenly.
6. Adding the Cornflake Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes and melted butter. This will create a crunchy topping! Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the potato mixture.
7. Smoking the Dish:
Place the pan in the 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 top is golden brown. Keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t overcook!
8. Serving Time:
Once it’s done, take the pan out of the smoker and allow it to sit for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Get ready to enjoy your delicious, smoky, cheesy treat!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes work great for this recipe, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier texture. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness before draining.
Can I Substitute For Cream of Chicken Soup?
Yes, you can use cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian option or even a homemade white sauce if you prefer a fresh taste. Just keep the consistency similar to ensure the dish turns out creamy!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can add a splash of cream or milk to restore moisture if needed!
Can I Add More Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the topping – crispy bacon bits, jalapeños, or additional cheese can take these cheesy potatoes to the next level. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you add more ingredients to ensure everything gets heated through properly.
