These Smoked Cheesy Potatoes are a creamy and cheesy delight with a hint of smoky flavor. Perfect for any barbecue or family gathering, they’re sure to make everyone smile!
I love how the cheese melts and gets all gooey—you won’t want to stop eating them! Pair them with your favorite meat, and you’ve got a meal everyone will love. 🥔🧀
Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Brown Potatoes: Frozen hash browns make this dish super easy! You can also use fresh grated potatoes, just be sure to soak and dry them well to avoid excess moisture.
Sour Cream: If you need a healthier option, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream. It offers a similar tanginess and creamy texture.
Cream of Chicken Soup: For a vegetarian version, you can swap this for cream of mushroom soup. This change will still give a lovely richness!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar really packs a punch of flavor. If you want something milder, feel free to use medium cheddar or even a cheese blend.
Corn Flakes/Crispy Rice Cereal: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free corn flakes. Panko breadcrumbs are a great substitute for extra crunch, too.
How Do I Get the Top to Be Perfectly Golden Brown?
Getting that golden brown top is all about the cooking time and temperature. Here’s how to nail it:
- Make sure your smoker is preheated to 225°F (107°C). This low and slow method helps the flavors develop.
- Keep an eye on the potatoes as they cook, especially in the last hour. If they look like they’re browning too quickly, you can cover them with foil for a bit.
- The corn flakes and cheese topping should be nice and crispy when it’s done. Make sure to let it rest for a few minutes after cooking—this helps the dish settle and enhances the texture!
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Mixture:
- 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cream of chicken soup
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 2 cups corn flakes or crispy rice cereal
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 2-3 hours to cook in the smoker. It’s perfect for making ahead of time and serving at a barbecue or family gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). This will give your potatoes that delicious smoky flavor as they cook!
2. Mix the Potato Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped onion, melted butter, garlic powder, and some salt and pepper. Stir it all together until everything is well mixed and combined.
3. Prepare the Pan:
Take a large aluminum foil pan and grease it with cooking spray or a little butter to prevent sticking. Then, pour the potato mixture into the pan and spread it out evenly so it cooks nicely.
4. Add the Topping:
In a separate bowl, take the corn flakes (or crispy rice cereal) and mix them with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Sprinkle this tasty mixture generously over the top of the potato mixture in the pan.
5. Smoke the Potatoes:
Carefully place the pan in the smoker. Let it cook for about 2-3 hours, checking occasionally. The potatoes are ready when they are hot and the top is golden brown and bubbly—yum!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the pan from the smoker and let it rest for a few minutes. If you like, you can garnish it with chopped fresh parsley for a nice touch. Serve these hot, cheesy potatoes as a comforting side dish, and watch them disappear!
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes! If you opt for fresh potatoes, peel and grate about 4 cups of them. Make sure to par-cook them briefly in boiling water or steam them until slightly tender before mixing them with the other ingredients.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you want a substitute for cream of chicken soup, you can use cream of mushroom soup or a homemade version by mixing equal parts sour cream and chicken broth with a bit of flour for thickness. This maintains a creamy texture without altering the flavor too much!
How to Adjust the Spiciness of the Dish?
If you prefer a bit of a kick, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the potato mixture. For a milder version, you can simply reduce the amount of garlic powder and opt for a milder cheese.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
