Smoked Cheesy Potatoes are a fantastic dish that combines crispy, golden potatoes with gooey cheese and a hint of smokiness. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds!
If you’re anything like me, you might find it hard to resist sneaking bites straight from the dish! They make a perfect side for any meal or a tasty snack all on their own!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are great for this recipe because they are starchy and hold up well when cooked. If you need a substitute, Yukon Gold potatoes can work too; they add a creamier texture.
Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheese: I love a mix of these cheeses for that melty goodness! If you’re looking for alternatives, use Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds richness to the dish. For a healthier option, use a cream of mushroom soup or make your own with milk and flour as a base. If you need it to be vegetarian, opt for a veggie version.
Sour Cream: It lends a tangy flavor and creamy texture. Plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute if you want a lower-fat alternative.
Corn Flakes: They’re great for a crunchy topping! If you’re looking to avoid gluten, use crushed rice cereal instead, or even panko breadcrumbs for more crunch.
How Do I Get the Potatoes Perfectly Cooked in the Smoker?
Cooking potatoes in the smoker can be a bit tricky, so here’s how to ensure they’re tender and full of flavor:
- Make sure to slice your potatoes thinly and evenly. This helps them cook through quicker and more evenly.
- Mix the potatoes thoroughly with the creamy sauce to ensure every slice gets coated, which adds moisture and flavor as they cook.
- Monitor the temperature while smoking. Consistently maintain 225°F, as going too hot may cook the outside faster than the inside.
- Check for doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork; they should be tender but not mushy. This should take about 2 to 3 hours.
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 cups corn flakes cereal, crushed
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 2 to 3 hours to cook in the smoker. So, total time for this delicious dish is around 3 hours including prep and cooking. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Smoker:
First, preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). This will get it nice and hot while you prepare the potato mixture.
2. Mixing the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, add the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and some salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy.
3. Adding the Potatoes:
Next, take your thinly sliced potatoes and add them to the creamy mixture. Give it a good stir to make sure all the potatoes are coated evenly.
4. Cheese It Up:
Now, fold in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until the cheeses are evenly distributed throughout the potato mixture.
5. Preparing for Smoking:
Transfer the potato mixture into a disposable aluminum pan or any suitable dish for smoking. Make sure it’s spread out evenly.
6. Making the Crunchy Topping:
In a separate small bowl, combine the crushed corn flakes with the melted butter. Toss them together until the corn flakes are completely coated.
7. Top It Off:
Spread the buttery corn flakes evenly over the top of the potato mixture in the pan. This will give a nice crunchy topping when cooked!
8. Smoking the Potatoes:
Now, place the pan in the smoker. Let it cook for about 2 to 3 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and crispy. You can check the tenderness by poking a potato slice with a fork.
9. Finishing Touch:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pan from the smoker and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle it with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Smoked Cheesy Potatoes as a perfect side dish for any barbecue or gathering!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella are a great combination, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even Velveeta for a creamier texture. Just remember that different cheeses may change the flavor profile, so choose ones that complement your taste!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the cream of chicken soup with a cream of mushroom soup or a vegetable cream soup. This keeps the creamy texture while ensuring it’s meat-free!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. They can be easily reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm, or you can microwave individual portions for convenience!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen?
Yes, fresh potatoes are the way to go for this recipe! Be sure to peel and slice them thinly as instructed. If you’re in a hurry, you can soak the sliced potatoes in water for about 30 minutes before using them to help remove excess starch and improve texture!
