These smoked cheesy potatoes are pure comfort food! With creamy cheese and smoky flavors, they make a perfect side dish for any meal. You won’t be able to resist their cheesy goodness!
Honestly, who can say no to cheese and potatoes? I like to serve them at family gatherings, and they always disappear quickly. Plus, the smoky taste makes everything feel extra special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are great for this dish due to their starchy texture, making them fluffy when cooked. If you can’t find Russets, Yukon Golds work well too, providing a buttery flavor.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This cheese adds a tangy flavor. If you prefer something milder, try medium cheddar or even pepper jack for a kick!
Cream Cheese: For creaminess, you can substitute with Neufchâtel cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese if you’re looking for a lighter option or have dietary restrictions.
Sour Cream: Plain Greek yogurt makes a fantastic substitute here. It’s tangy and provides the same creaminess, just remember to pick a plain one!
Smoked Paprika: If you don’t have this, regular paprika will do. If you want a hint of smokiness, try adding a bit of liquid smoke to the mix.
Corn Flakes: This crunchy topping can be swapped for crushed breadcrumbs or even panko for an extra crisp. It all depends on what you have on hand!
How Do I Get My Potatoes Perfectly Creamy and Flavorful?
Cooking the potatoes right is key! Boil them until tender, usually about 15-20 minutes. This ensures they mix well with all the creamy ingredients. Remember to drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which could make the dish soggy.
- Check doneness by poking them with a fork; they should be soft but not falling apart.
- Once cooked, let them sit briefly to cool before mixing; this will help them absorb all the cheese and spices better.
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Mixture:
- 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup corn flakes, crushed
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious smoked cheesy potatoes dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and roughly 1 to 1.5 hours to smoke. So, expect to spend around 2 hours in total for this delicious side dish that’s perfect for any gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Smoker Ready:
Start by preheating your smoker to 250°F (121°C). This low and slow cooking method will add fantastic smoky flavor to your cheesy potatoes.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
In a large pot, add the diced russet potatoes and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and let the potatoes cook until they’re tender. This should take about 15-20 minutes. Once they’re done, drain the water and set the potatoes aside.
3. Mix the Creamy Base:
In a large mixing bowl, combine your softened cream cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use a spoon or a mixer to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
4. Combine with Potatoes and Cheese:
Now, add the cooked potatoes and the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the creamy mixture. Carefully stir everything until the potatoes are well coated in the flavorful cream mix. It should look cheesy and delicious!
5. Prepare for Smoking:
Transfer the potato mixture into a greased aluminum pan or a large baking dish. This will help with easy cleanup and make it easier to handle later.
6. Make the Crunchy Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the crushed corn flakes with the melted butter. This will create a lovely crunchy topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the potato mixture in your pan.
7. Smoke the Potatoes:
Carefully place the pan in your preheated smoker. Let it smoke for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The wonderful smoky aroma will fill the air!
8. Finish and Serve:
Once your cheesy potatoes are done smoking, take the pan out of the smoker and let it cool for a few minutes. Finally, garnish with some chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve warm and enjoy your smoky cheesy potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes provide a great texture, you can substitute with Yukon Golds or fingerling potatoes for a creamier taste. Just ensure they are peeled and diced to similar sizes for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or don’t have cream cheese on hand, you can use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese. Both will give a nice creaminess, though Greek yogurt will add a slight tang.
How to Store Leftovers
Store leftover smoked cheesy potatoes 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, or microwave them for a quick option—adding a splash of milk can help restore creaminess.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before smoking. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before placing it in the smoker for even cooking.
