Smoked Cheesy Potatoes are a warm and comforting dish packed with flavor. Creamy cheese meets tender potatoes, and the smoky touch makes it simply yum!
You’ll love how easy it is to whip these up! I like to serve them with grilled meats to soak up all that cheesy goodness—trust me, it’s a hug in a bowl. 🥔🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using russet potatoes for their fluffiness. They give a nice texture. If you have red or Yukon gold potatoes on hand, they work well too!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack create a rich flavor. If you’re dairy-free, try vegan cheese blends. I sometimes mix in pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. If you’re vegetarian, consider using cream of mushroom soup instead. Homemade versions are also an option if canned isn’t available.
Sour Cream: It adds tanginess. You can replace this with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. I prefer light sour cream, but regular works fine too.
Cornflakes: These provide a crunchy topping. If you don’t have cornflakes, try crushed crackers or breadcrumbs for a different texture. Sometimes, I season the crackers for extra flavor!
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Potatoes?
The key to having the right texture for the potatoes is boiling them just until they’re tender. Don’t overcook! Here’s how to get it right:
- Cut the potatoes into uniform pieces for even cooking.
- Boil in salted water for about 10-15 minutes. Test with a fork; they should be tender but not mushy.
- Immediately drain and set aside to avoid further cooking from residual heat.
Getting the potato base right is crucial for a creamy, cheesy final dish!
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 3 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious smoked cheesy potatoes recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time plus 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking in the smoker. You’ll start by boiling the potatoes, then mix everything up, and finally, let it smoke until it’s golden and crispy. Perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Begin by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). It’s important to get it to the right temperature to ensure even cooking and great smoky flavor.
2. Boil the Potatoes:
In a large pot, add the diced potatoes and cover them with water. Bring it to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are just tender, about 10 to 15 minutes. Once they are done, drain them well and set aside. We want them soft but not falling apart!
3. Make the Cheesy Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and melted butter. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
4. Combine with Potatoes:
Now, gently fold the drained cooked potatoes into the cheesy mixture. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated with that delicious cheesy goodness.
5. Transfer to Pan:
Next, transfer the potato and cheese mixture into a greased aluminum foil pan. Spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely. This will make it easy to lift out later too!
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with a bit of melted butter. This will give the topping a lovely crispiness. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the potato mix in the pan.
7. Smoke the Dish:
Carefully place the pan in the smoker. Let it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the potatoes are heated through and the top is golden and crispy. This step is where the magic happens!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once you’ve pulled the pan from the smoker, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color before serving. Enjoy your delicious smoked cheesy potatoes with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different flavor, feel free to substitute the sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack with cheeses like gouda, cream cheese, or even pepper jack for a bit of heat. Just ensure they melt well to achieve that creamy consistency!
What if I Only Have Frozen Potatoes?
No problem! You can use frozen diced potatoes, but you’ll want to thaw them completely and drain off any excess moisture before using them in the recipe. This will prevent the dish from becoming watery as it smokes.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the potatoes in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This will help maintain the crispy topping!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the potato mixture a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just add the crushed cornflakes topping and smoke it when you’re ready to serve. It will save you time and effort on the day of your event!
