These smoked cheesy potatoes are the ultimate comfort food! Picture tender potatoes mixed with gooey cheese and smoky flavors, making every bite a treat.
Let’s face it, who doesn’t love cheesy potatoes? I always whip these up for barbecues and family dinners. They disappear faster than you can say “more cheese, please!” 🧀
I love that these potatoes are super easy to make in the smoker. Just toss everything together and let the magic happen. Perfect side dish for any meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are ideal for this dish due to their starchy texture, which makes them fluffy when cooked. If you’re looking for a healthier option, sweet potatoes can be used for a different flavor profile.
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess and tang. If you need a dairy-free option, consider using coconut yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream alternative. Both options will still bring a nice creaminess.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This creates a rich base. If you want a vegetarian option, you could use cream of mushroom soup, or even make your own using a simple roux and vegetable broth.
Cheddar Cheese: While sharp cheddar gives great flavor, you can substitute with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of heat. You can also use pre-shredded cheese for convenience.
Corn Flakes: These provide a crispy topping. If you prefer something gluten-free, crushed rice cereal or gluten-free breadcrumbs can work as a substitute.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Smoked Flavor?
Smoking the potatoes adds incredible depth of flavor. To achieve the best results, follow these tips for preparing your smoker:
- Preheat the smoker to 225°F (107°C) before adding your dish. This ensures it cooks evenly.
- Choose wood chips like hickory or applewood that pair well with potatoes and cheese. Soaking the wood chips in water for about 30 minutes helps them smoke longer.
- Place your aluminum foil pan directly on the smoker grates for even cooking. Keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain the temperature and smoke.
Don’t rush the process; let the flavors infuse! The combination of low and slow cooking makes all the difference in taste.
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 cups russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 cups corn flakes, crushed
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then around 1 hour to smoke. So, set aside about 1 hour and 15 minutes total. You’ll enjoy the savory smells as the potatoes cook to perfection while being infused with smoky flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
First, you’ll want to get your smoker going! Preheat it to 225°F (107°C) and prepare your favorite wood chips or pellets for that delicious smoky flavor.
2. Mix the Potato Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Mix everything together well so all the potatoes are coated with the creamy mixture.
3. Transfer to a Pan:
Next, take a greased aluminum foil pan (or a disposable baking dish) and pour the potato mixture into it. Spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
4. Prepare the Topping:
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed corn flakes with the melted butter, stirring until everything is nicely mixed. Spread this crunchy corn flake mixture evenly over the potato layer in the pan.
5. Add More Cheese:
Now, to make it extra cheesy, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the corn flakes. Yum!
6. Smoke the Potatoes:
Carefully place the pan in your preheated smoker. Let it cook there for about 1 hour, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and bubbly. The aroma will be amazing!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, take the pan out of the smoker and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a colorful and tasty touch. Enjoy your cheesy, smoky potatoes as a perfect side dish for your next gathering or barbecue!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but keep in mind that they may have a creamier texture or different flavor. Just make sure they are peeled and diced to a similar size for even cooking!
What Can I Use Instead of Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you need a substitute for cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian option or make a homemade white sauce. Simply whisk together equal parts of butter, flour, and milk until thickened, then season with salt and pepper!
How Can I Store Leftover Smoked Cheesy Potatoes?
To store leftovers, let the potatoes cool completely and place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out if using the oven!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the potato mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just add the corn flakes and cheese topping just before smoking for the best texture and flavor.
