Smoked Cheesy Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food! This dish features creamy potatoes covered in melted cheese, all infused with a delicious smoky flavor that makes every bite irresistible.
Trust me, once you try these cheesy bites, you’ll want to make them every week. They pair perfectly with any meal, or just enjoy them on their own—who can resist cheesy goodness? 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These small potatoes have a creamy texture when cooked. If you can’t find baby potatoes, you can substitute with Yukon gold or red potatoes, cut into smaller chunks for similar results.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative, offering similar texture and taste. I often reach for Greek yogurt as a substitute when I want a lighter option.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is great for richness. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, there are mushroom or vegetable cream soups available that work very well.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is essential for that gooey, cheesy goodness. If you’re looking for lower-fat options, reduced-fat cheddar or a dairy-free cheese can also be used.
Bacon: This adds a delicious crunch and flavor. For a vegetarian version, you can use crispy sautéed mushrooms or even coconut bacon for a unique taste.
Cornflakes: They add a crunchy topping. If you’re avoiding gluten, try using crushed gluten-free cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs for a similar texture.
How Do I Get My Potatoes Perfectly Tender in the Smoker?
The key to tender smoked potatoes is letting them cook long enough and at the right temperature. Here’s how to ensure they come out just right:
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) to get that low and slow cooking effect.
- Mix the potato ingredients thoroughly so every piece is coated; this helps with even cooking.
- Keep the potatoes covered with the cornflake topping to enhance tenderness while allowing the top to crisp up.
Remember, patience is essential! Let them smoke for about 2 hours. Check for tenderness by poking a potato with a fork; it should slide in easily.
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Mixture:
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, diced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 15 minutes to prepare, plus about 2 hours of smoking time. Get ready for some scrumptious cheesy potatoes that will make everyone smile!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). This low and slow cooking method will infuse great smoky flavors into your potatoes.
2. Mix the Potato Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced baby potatoes, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the potatoes are well coated and everything is mixed evenly.
3. Prepare the Aluminum Pan:
Next, transfer your delicious potato mixture into a disposable aluminum foil pan. This makes for easy transfer to the smoker, and cleanup will be a breeze!
4. Make the Cornflake Topping:
In another bowl, mix together the crushed cornflakes and melted butter. Make sure all the cornflakes are well coated with the buttery goodness.
5. Assemble the Dish:
Sprinkle the cornflake mixture evenly over the potato mixture in the aluminum pan. Then, add the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top. This will create a deliciously cheesy, crispy layer!
6. Smoke the Potatoes:
Carefully place the pan in your preheated smoker. Let the potatoes smoke for about 2 hours, or until they’re tender and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown. This step is where the magic happens—enjoy the wonderful aroma!
7. Final Touches:
Once the smoking is done, take the pan out of the smoker and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Don’t forget to garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dig in and savor your mouth-watering smoked cheesy potatoes! They make a fantastic side dish for any meal or a great treat for gatherings.
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are great for this recipe due to their creamy texture, you can use other types like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
What if I Don’t Have Cream of Chicken Soup?
No worries! You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup or make a homemade version using a mix of heavy cream, chicken broth, and a thickening agent like flour or cornstarch. Just blend well for a smooth consistency!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until you’re ready to smoke it. You can also assemble it in the aluminum pan and keep it in the fridge. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before smoking to help it cook evenly.
How Should I Store Leftover Smoked Cheesy Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a little extra cheese on top if you want to revive that gooey goodness!
