These smoked cheesy potatoes are loaded with creamy cheese and smoky flavor. They’re perfect for a cozy family dinner or backyard barbecue!
Honestly, what’s better than potatoes and cheese? I love serving them hot with a sprinkle of herbs on top. It’s comfort food at its finest, and you just can’t go wrong! 🧀🥔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: For this recipe, russet potatoes are ideal due to their high starch content, giving the dish a fluffy texture. If you’re looking for a little change, Yukon Gold works too—they have a buttery flavor and creamy texture.
Sour Cream & Cream Cheese: Both add creaminess and tang. If you need a lighter version, Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative for sour cream. Substitute Neufchâtel cheese for cream cheese for a lower-fat option, but the taste remains mostly the same.
Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheese: Cheddar brings that classic cheesy flavor, and mozzarella contributes to the stretchy texture. Feel free to use any cheese you love—Monterey Jack or Gouda would be delicious, too!
Corn Flakes: These are used for a crispy topping. If you’re avoiding gluten, try crushed rice cereal or corn chips instead for a similar crunch.
Ranch Dressing Mix: This adds a zesty kick. If you prefer homemade, mix equal parts dried dill, parsley, onion powder, and garlic powder instead. It’s a great way to control the seasoning!
How Do I Get Crispy Topped Cheesy Potatoes?
The topping can make all the difference in texture! To achieve that perfect balance of crispy corn flakes paired with creamy potatoes, here’s what you should do:
- When mixing corn flakes and melted butter, ensure the flakes are completely coated. This helps them crisp up nicely.
- Spread the corn flakes evenly over the potato mixture to encourage even cooking.
- Keep the smoker’s temperature steady. A consistent heat around 225°F (107°C) is key for both cooking the potatoes and keeping the topping crispy.
- Let the dish rest for a few minutes after smoking. This sitting time allows the cheese and potatoes to settle, making serving easier!
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Mixture:
- 3 pounds of russet potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 cups crushed corn flakes
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need to smoke it for 2 to 2.5 hours. So, set aside around 3 hours total to enjoy these delicious smoked cheesy potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). This low and slow cooking will help create that delicious smoky flavor.
2. Mix the Cheese and Seasonings:
In a large mixing bowl, add the sour cream, cream cheese, milk, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Using a spoon or spatula, mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth.
3. Add the Sliced Potatoes and Cheeses:
Next, stir in the sliced potatoes, followed by the cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese. Make sure all the potatoes are well coated with that creamy mixture. This is where the magic begins!
4. Prepare the Pan:
Pour the potato mixture into a greased 9×13 inch aluminum foil pan. Spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
5. Make the Crunchy Topping:
In a separate bowl, take your crushed corn flakes and mix them with the melted butter. Stir until all the corn flakes are well coated with the butter, adding a delicious crunch to your dish.
6. Assemble and Smoke:
Sprinkle the buttered corn flakes evenly over the top of the potato mixture in the pan. Now, it’s time to place the pan in the smoker. Close the lid and smoke for about 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the potatoes are fully cooked and the top is golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it—you want that perfect texture!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, carefully remove the pan from the smoker and let it sit for a few minutes to cool slightly. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you’d like a touch of color, and then dig into your amazing smoked cheesy potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes work great due to their starchy texture, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes as substitutes. Just keep in mind that different potatoes might yield slightly different textures and flavors!
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can use Greek yogurt or cottage cheese as a substitute. Both will add a creamy texture and tanginess similar to sour cream. Just blend the cottage cheese until smooth if you choose that option!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or warm them up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a splash of milk to keep them creamy during reheating.
Can I Prepare These Potatoes in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the potato mixture a day ahead! Just mix the ingredients and store them in the fridge, covered. When you’re ready, top with corn flakes and butter, then smoke as directed. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors!
