Smoked cheesy potatoes are a comfort food dream! Imagine fluffy potatoes mixed with gooey cheese and a hint of smoky flavor that takes it to the next level.
These potatoes are perfect for BBQs or family dinners—just throw them on the grill and relax! I could eat them every day and still want more. 🍽️
Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend russet potatoes for their starchy texture, which makes them fluffy when cooked. If you want a creamier texture, you could also use Yukon Gold potatoes.
Cheese: I love mixing cheddar and mozzarella for the flavor and stretch! If you’re looking for alternatives, try Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier kick.
Sour Cream: Sour cream adds creaminess, but Greek yogurt is a great, healthier substitute. It gives a similar tanginess while reducing fat.
Cream of Chicken Soup: If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can swap it with cream of mushroom or a homemade white sauce.
Cornflakes: For a gluten-free option, crushed rice cereal or gluten-free breadcrumbs work well for the topping.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Creamy and Cheesy Mixture?
The key to a creamy, cheesy mix is to blend everything well before adding the potatoes. Make sure your cheeses are shredded for easy melting. This allows for even coating, ensuring every bite is flavor-packed.
- Mix the sour cream and cheeses together thoroughly before adding the milk and soup.
- Add garlic and onion powders for depth of flavor.
- Be gentle when folding in the potatoes, so they stay intact and fluffy.
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 shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup cream of chicken soup
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 15-20 minutes for preparation, plus around 2-3 hours of smoking time. You’ll spend the first part boiling and mixing ingredients, and the last part enjoying the wonderful smoky aroma as your potatoes cook. A delightful way to add flavor to your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by getting your smoker ready. Preheat it to 225°F (107°C). This temperature will give your potatoes that perfect smoky flavor.
2. Boil the Potatoes:
In a large pot, add the diced russet potatoes and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then let the potatoes cook until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15-20 minutes. After they are done, drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Cheese and Cream:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, milk, cream of chicken soup, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and some salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
4. Combine Potatoes with Cheese Mixture:
Now it’s time to add the drained potatoes to the bowl of cheese mixture. Stir gently until all the potato pieces are nicely coated with the cheesy goodness. This is going to be rich and delicious!
5. Prepare for Smoking:
Transfer the potato mixture into a greased aluminum foil pan. This will make it easier to handle and keep everything from sticking. Spread it out evenly.
6. Make the Topping:
In another bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter. Stir until all the cornflakes are evenly coated with buttery goodness. This will create a crunchy topping.
7. Add Topping to Potatoes:
Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the potato mixture in the pan. This will give it a delightful crunch when it’s finished cooking.
8. Smoke the Dish:
Carefully place the pan in the smoker. Let it smoke for about 2-3 hours, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy. Enjoy the wonderful smells wafting through the air!
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once you take the pan out of the smoker, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a nice touch of color and flavor.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Your smoked cheesy potatoes are now ready to enjoy! Serve them warm and watch everyone dig in. They are sure to be a hit at your meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes, like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly. Yukon Golds will be creamier, while red potatoes will hold their shape a bit more!
Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
Absolutely! If you want a vegetarian option, you can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade white sauce. For a dairy-free version, look for a plant-based cream soup or make a cashew cream base instead.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally.
Can I Smoke These Potatoes in the Oven Instead?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have a smoker, simply bake the potatoes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes. To add a smoky flavor, consider using liquid smoke in the cheese mixture—start with just a drop or two, as it can be strong!
