Smoked cheesy potatoes are a warm and comforting dish that combines tender potatoes with gooey melted cheese and a hint of smokiness. Perfect for BBQs or family dinners!
The best part? You can pile on the cheese, and who doesn’t love that? I often serve these with grilled meats, and they’re always a hit—be ready for empty bowls! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, as they hold up well and create a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try sweet potatoes for a twist on flavor.
Sour Cream: This adds a nice tang to the dish. If you’re dairy-free, in place of sour cream, consider using coconut yogurt or cashew cream for a similar texture.
Cheeses: I love combining cheddar and mozzarella for a gooey melt. Feel free to swap in pepper jack for a spicy kick or use a dairy-free cheese blend if you’re avoiding dairy.
Cornflakes: This topping adds crunch! You can replace cornflakes with panko breadcrumbs or crushed potato chips for a different texture. Try seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor!
Butter: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, olive oil or vegan butter works great in the topping mixture.
How Can I Ensure My Potatoes are Perfectly Tender?
Cooking the potatoes just right is key for a creamy inside. Begin by boiling them until they’re fork-tender, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Here’s a tip: avoid overcooking! If they become too soft, they won’t hold their shape while mixing or during smoking.
- Start with cold water in a pot to ensure even cooking.
- Add salt to the water, which helps flavor the potatoes as they cook.
- Test the potatoes with a fork; they should be soft but not mushy when you drain them.
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Mixture:
- 3 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Topping:
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep and 1.5 to 2 hours for smoking (or 30-40 minutes if baking in the oven). Make sure you allow some extra time for the dish to cool before serving. You’ll love how cheesy and smoky these potatoes become!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Smoker or Oven:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If you don’t have a smoker, you can use your oven instead, preheating it to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the Potatoes:
In a large pot, bring some salted water to a boil. Add the diced potatoes and cook them until they are just fork-tender, which will take about 10-12 minutes. Once done, drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool a bit.
3. Make the Cheese Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, cream cheese, milk, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
4. Combine Potatoes and Cheese Mixture:
Now, gently fold the cooked potatoes into the cheese mixture. Make sure all the potatoes are well coated with that cheesy goodness!
5. Get Ready to Smoke:
Transfer the potato mixture into a disposable aluminum pan or a skillet that’s safe for your smoker. This will make it easier to handle.
6. Prepare the Cornflake Topping:
In another bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the melted butter until they’re well combined. Then, sprinkle this buttery cornflake mixture evenly over the top of the potato mixture.
7. Time to Smoke!
Place the pan in the smoker and let it smoke for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is a lovely golden brown. If you’re using an oven, bake it for 30-40 minutes instead.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once your dish is done, carefully remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a nice touch!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve these creamy, smoky cheesy potatoes warm as a delicious side dish to your favorite main course. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are great for this recipe, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier texture. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if you’re using smaller potatoes!
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the potato mixture and assemble it a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before smoking or baking!
What if I Don’t Have Cornflakes?
No worries! You can substitute the crushed cornflakes with breadcrumbs, crushed potato chips, or even crushed crackers for a different crunch. Just keep an eye on the topping to avoid burning!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
