Smoked Cheesy Potatoes are a tasty treat that combines creamy cheese with tender potatoes, all packed with a smoky flavor. Perfect as a side dish for any grill session!
These potatoes are so good, they might just steal the spotlight from your main dish! I love enjoying them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using russet or Yukon gold potatoes. Russets are fluffy and great for this dish, while Yukon golds offer a creamier texture. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower can be a substitute, though it will change the texture.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. If you’re looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute. It offers similar creaminess and a little extra protein.
Heavy Cream: This is key for rich flavor. If you need a lighter option, half-and-half or a nut milk like cashew cream can work, but your dish may be less rich.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but feel free to mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby for a different character. For dairy-free, there are great vegan cheeses available that melt well.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds depth, but vegetarian versions are available. You can also make a homemade cream of mushroom soup for a similar creamy effect without meat.
Cornflakes or Potato Chips: Both give crunch, but if you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try crushed gluten-free crackers or panko breadcrumbs seasoned with some spices.
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the potatoes correctly is essential. Overcooked potatoes can turn mushy, while undercooked ones can be hard. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Start with enough salted water in your pot to cover the potatoes.
- Bring the water to a gentle boil before adding your diced potatoes.
- Check for doneness with a fork after about 10 minutes. They should be fork-tender but still hold their shape.
- Don’t forget to drain the potatoes well! Excess water can make the mixture too runny.
With these tips, you’ll achieve a creamy, cheesy potato dish loaded with flavor and texture. Enjoy the process!
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 pounds of potatoes (russet or Yukon gold), peeled and diced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option)
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes or potato chips
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus around 1.5 to 2 hours in the smoker. You’ll prepare the ingredients and then let them do their magic in the smoker, resulting in creamy, cheesy goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (about 107°C). This is the perfect temperature to slowly infuse the potatoes with that smoky flavor.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook them for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. Once done, drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Cheesy Mixture:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and creamy. This is where the magic begins!
4. Combine Potatoes and Cheese Mixture:
Gently fold the cooked potatoes into the cheese mixture. Make sure each potato piece is well-coated in that cheesy goodness!
5. Transfer to the Aluminum Pan:
Next, scoop the potato and cheese mixture into a large aluminum pan. Spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
6. Prepare the Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes (or potato chips) with the melted butter until well coated. Then, sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over the cheesy potatoes. This will give it a delightful crunch!
7. Smoke the Potatoes:
Place the aluminum pan in the smoker and close the lid. Allow it to smoke for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully remove the pan from the smoker and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if you’d like, and then serve up your delicious Smoked Cheesy Potatoes. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese gives a great flavor, you can mix in other types like monterey jack, gouda, or even mozzarella for a different taste profile. Just make sure to use cheese that melts well for that gooey texture!
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creaminess. Another option is to use cottage cheese, blended until smooth; it will add a bit of protein without compromising the texture too much.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them! Just make sure to cool the potatoes completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can assemble the entire dish a day ahead! Just cover it tightly and refrigerate before smoking. When you’re ready to cook, take it out of the fridge while you preheat your smoker to ensure even cooking. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the smoking time if it’s starting from cold.
