I love a good potato dish, and I know you do too. Potatoes are just so versatile, offering comfort and satisfying flavors in countless ways. Today, I’m sharing two fantastic potato recipes that are perfect for any meal or gathering. Whether you want something hearty and cheesy or wonderfully crispy, I’ve got you covered with these easy potato side dishes.
These recipes are simple to follow and promise great results, making your next meal a delicious success. Let’s get cooking!
Jump to Recipe:
Smoked Cheesy Potatoes Recipe: Creamy & Hearty
This recipe takes classic cheesy potatoes and adds an amazing smoky flavor. It’s a wonderful side dish that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Smoked Potatoes
- Potato Choice: Use a starchy potato like Russet or Yukon Gold for the best creamy texture in your cheesy bake.
- Cheese Blend: A mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack works well for a good melt and balanced flavor.
- Smoking Wood: Oak or apple wood chips give a nice, mild smoke that pairs well with cheese without being too strong.
What You Need for Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
- 2 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Wood chips for smoking
⏱️ Time: 2 hours 30 minutes🍽️ Yields: 6-8 servings
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Step 1: Prep Your Potatoes & Sauce
Peel and dice your potatoes into 1-inch cubes. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and milk, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Stir in about half of both cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 2: Assemble for Smoking
In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes evenly with the cheese sauce. Pour the mixture into a disposable aluminum pan or a cast iron skillet that’s safe for your smoker. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.
Step 3: Smoke Until Tender
Preheat your smoker to 275-300°F (135-150°C). Place the pan of potatoes in the smoker and cook for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned. Make sure to add wood chips as directed by your smoker’s instructions.
Step 4: Finish & Serve Smoked Potatoes
Once done, carefully remove the potatoes from the smoker. Let them rest for about 10 minutes before serving, which helps the sauce set a little. Garnish with fresh green onions if you like.
📝 Final Note on Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave for best results.
Crispy Smashed Potatoes: Easy & Delicious
If you love a potato with a crispy outside and a soft, fluffy inside, you’ll adore these. They are simple to make and always a hit at the dinner table.
Key Ingredients & Tips for Smashed Potatoes
- Potato Size: Small new potatoes, like baby Yukon Golds or Red Bliss, work best for smashing evenly and getting nice crispy edges.
- Boiling Potatoes: Make sure your potatoes are fork-tender after boiling, but not so soft that they fall apart when you handle them.
- Smashing Technique: Use the bottom of a sturdy glass or a potato masher to gently flatten them, creating more surface area for crisping up in the oven.
What You Need for Crispy Smashed Potatoes
- 2 lbs small new potatoes (like baby Yukon Gold or Red Bliss)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 1 tsp dried rosemary or thyme (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
⏱️ Time: 45 minutes🍽️ Yields: 4-6 servings
How to Make Crispy Smashed Potatoes
Step 1: Boil Your Potatoes
Wash your small potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes well in a colander.
Step 2: Smash & Season
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the boiled potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using the bottom of a sturdy glass or a potato masher, gently press down on each potato until it’s flattened to about half an inch thick. Drizzle with olive oil, minced garlic, and sprinkle with dried rosemary or thyme, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Roast to Crispy Perfection
Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and very crispy on the edges. If you want them even crispier, you can flip them halfway through for even browning.
Step 4: Serve Warm
Remove from the oven and transfer to a serving platter. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you wish. These are best served immediately while they are still warm and crispy.
📝 Final Note on Smashed Potatoes
Try different herbs like dill or chives, or a sprinkle of paprika for a different flavor profile. A little grated Parmesan cheese after smashing is also a tasty addition!
