Smoked cheesy potatoes are the ultimate comfort food! Soft potatoes are perfectly blended with melted cheese and smoky flavors. It’s a warm hug on your plate!
Honestly, who can resist cheesy goodness? I love making these for BBQ nights or cozy dinners. Pair them with some grilled meats and you’ll be everyone’s favorite chef! 😄
These potatoes are super easy to whip up. Just toss everything together, throw it on the smoker, and let the magic happen. Trust me, you’ll want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are perfect for baking and smoking due to their starchy texture. If you can’t find russet potatoes, Yukon Golds are a great alternative since they are buttery and creamy.
Cheddar & Mozzarella Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a wonderful kick, while mozzarella contributes to a gooey texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, try using gouda for cheddar or a dairy-free mozzarella for a plant-based version.
Sour Cream: It adds creaminess and a slight tang. If you’re out of sour cream, plain Greek yogurt works well in its place. It adds the same creaminess with added protein.
Cream Cheese: This ingredient smooths out the mix. For a lighter alternative, consider using ricotta cheese or a low-fat cream cheese. These options can reduce calories while still keeping the creamy texture.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds a unique flavor. If you don’t have it, a mix of dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder can work. Or, simply use Italian seasoning for a different twist!
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the potatoes right is key for a delicious dish. You want them fork-tender but not mushy. Here’s how to get it right:
- Start by cutting your potatoes into small, uniform pieces. This helps ensure they cook evenly.
- Boil them in salted water for about 10-15 minutes. Check doneness with a fork. If it easily slides in, they’re ready!
- After draining, let them cool slightly. This reduces moisture, helping your dish not become watery later on.
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 mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 package (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup corn flakes, crushed
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 1 hour to smoke, making it a total of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s a fun and easy dish that’s perfect for gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). If you’re using a grill, set it up for indirect cooking. This will make sure your potatoes get that delicious smoky flavor.
2. Boil the Potatoes:
In a large pot, add your diced potatoes and cover them with water. Stir in some salt and bring the water to a boil. Let the potatoes cook for about 10-15 minutes until they are fork-tender. Once done, drain them and let them cool slightly.
3. Make the Cheese Mixture:
While the potatoes are cooling, grab a large mixing bowl and combine your shredded sharp cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, sour cream, softened cream cheese, melted butter, ranch seasoning mix, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well blended and creamy.
4. Combine with Potatoes:
Add the cooled, drained potatoes to the cheese mixture. Gently fold the potatoes into the cheese blend until they’re well coated. You want every potato piece to get some of that cheesy goodness!
5. Prepare for Smoking:
Transfer your potato mixture into a greased aluminum foil pan or a cast-iron skillet. Spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
6. Add the Crunchy Topping:
Take your crushed corn flakes and sprinkle them evenly over the top of the potato mixture. This will add a nice crispy texture once it’s cooked.
7. Smoke the Potatoes:
Now, place the pan in your preheated smoker or on the grill over indirect heat. Smoke the potatoes for about 1 hour. You’ll know they are ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is looking golden brown!
8. Garnish and Serve:
When it’s done, carefully take the pan out and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top to make it look pretty. Enjoy your smoky, cheesy potatoes with grilled meats or as a cozy dish on its own!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are great for their texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier flavor. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of potato, so keep an eye on them while boiling.
What if I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing together equal parts of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Alternatively, try using Italian seasoning for a different flavor twist!
Can I Prep This Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the potato mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add the corn flakes right before smoking or grilling to keep them crispy. When ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the smoker.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. If they seem dry, a splash of cream or milk can help bring back some moisture!
