These smoked cheesy potatoes are simply amazing! With a creamy cheese blend and a hint of smokiness, they are the perfect side for any meal.
Honestly, they have a way of stealing the spotlight at BBQs! I love how the smoky flavor adds a fun twist to classic cheesy potatoes. You won’t be able to stop at just one bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: For creamy and fluffy texture, I recommend using Russet potatoes. They hold up well when smoked and become soft. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, cauliflower works as a good substitute, but the texture will be different.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you want a lighter alternative, Greek yogurt can work great too! It adds a similar tangy flavor while being a bit healthier.
Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheese: I love the combo of sharp cheddar for flavor and mozzarella for stretchiness! If you’re dairy-free, try plant-based cheese shreds instead. Nutritional yeast can also provide a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Green Onions: These add fresh flavor and a bit of crunch. Feel free to replace them with chives or regular onions if you don’t have green onions available.
Cornflakes: They give a nice crunch on top! If you’re gluten-free, use crushed rice cereal or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a similar effect.
How Do You Ensure the Potatoes are Perfectly Cooked in the Smoker?
Cooking potatoes in a smoker requires attention to the time and temperature. To achieve perfectly tender potatoes, follow these steps:
- Start by preheating the smoker to 250°F (120°C). This low and slow cooking method allows flavors to develop.
- Ensure potatoes are cut into uniform pieces, so they cook evenly. Dicing them into about 1-inch cubes works well.
- Check for doneness at the 2-hour mark. You want a fork to easily pierce through the potatoes but not mushy.
- Leave the top uncovered for the last 30 minutes to get that crispy texture from the cornflake topping.
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potato Mixture:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Topping:
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 2 to 3 hours to smoke. It’s perfect for a gathering since you can make it ahead of time and enjoy the wonderful smoky flavor while keeping your cookout in full swing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by setting up your smoker and preheating it to 250°F (120°C). This will prepare it for the wonderful smoky flavor that infuses the potatoes!
2. Mixing the Potato Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the diced potatoes, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped green onions, melted butter, cream of chicken soup, garlic powder, onion powder, and some salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s thoroughly mixed and all the potatoes are coated with the tasty mixture.
3. Prepare for Smoking:
Carefully transfer the potato mixture into a greased aluminum foil pan or any suitable baking dish you have. This will make it easier to lift out of the smoker later on.
4. Prepare the Topping:
In a separate bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes with the grated Parmesan cheese. This crispy topping will add a fantastic crunch! Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the potato mixture in the pan.
5. Time to Smoke:
Place your pan in the preheated smoker. Let it smoke for about 2 to 3 hours. Check occasionally until the potatoes are tender and the topping is nice and golden brown and crispy.
6. Finishing Touches:
Once it’s done, carefully remove the pan from the smoker and allow it to cool for a few minutes. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve these warm smoked cheesy potatoes as a delightful side dish. Everyone will love the smoky, cheesy goodness!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! If you prefer a creamier texture, go for Yukon Gold potatoes. For a firmer bite, Russet potatoes work well too. Just adjust the cooking time slightly based on the potato type, as some may take longer to become tender.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use homemade cream of mushroom soup or a thick white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk. Alternatively, use vegetable broth combined with a splash of cream to maintain the creamy consistency.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, covering with foil to prevent the top from getting too brown.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can mix the potato mixture, place it in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before smoking. Just allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the smoker, and you may need to add a little extra time for cooking.
