These Easy Smoked Cheesy Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food! Creamy cheese, tender potatoes, and a hint of smoky flavor come together for a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Who can resist cheesy goodness? I love making these for family gatherings; they disappear faster than I can serve them! Pair with a salad for a fun meal or just enjoy them on their own!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Hash Brown Potatoes: Frozen hash browns are super convenient for this dish. If you don’t have them, you can use fresh potatoes. Just peel and grate them, but be sure to squeeze out excess moisture to keep the dish from becoming soggy.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you prefer milder cheese, you can use mild cheddar, or even blend in pepper jack for a kick. Mozzarella can also work if you want it extra gooey!
Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. For a vegetarian option, you could use cream of mushroom soup instead. Homemade versions are also an awesome alternative if you have the time.
Sour Cream: Sour cream gives a nice tang. Greek yogurt can substitute it really well, especially if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just make sure it’s plain for the best flavor.
Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky taste and crunch. If you’re looking for a meat-free version, you can skip it or use crispy smoked tempeh instead for a similar effect.
How Do I Get the Perfect Crispy Topping?
The topping is key for that satisfying crunch! Using crushed cornflakes gives the perfect texture, but if you want something different, try using crispy fried onions, which add amazing flavor too.
- After smoking the potatoes for about 1 1/2 hours, carefully remove the foil to let the moisture escape.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly right before the last 15-20 minutes of smoking. This will help it crisp up without burning.
- Keep an eye on it during this time—oven or smoker temperatures can vary, so adjust if needed!
These steps will ensure your potatoes come out perfectly cheesy and crunchy!
Easy Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potato Mixture:
- 4 cups frozen hash brown potatoes (thawed)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions or chives
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Topping:
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes or crispy fried onions
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes to prepare and 2 to 2.5 hours to cook in the smoker. You’ll spend a few minutes mixing all the delicious ingredients, then it goes into the smoker to get that wonderful flavor—so easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 275°F (135°C). This low-and-slow method is perfect for infusing flavor into your cheesy potatoes!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped green onions or chives, crumbled bacon, melted butter, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined.
3. Prepare for Smoking:
Transfer the potato mixture to a foil pan or a heat-safe casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. This will help it cook through evenly.
4. Add Extra Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of your potato mixture. This will melt beautifully and make a cheesy crust!
5. Start Smoking:
Cover the pan loosely with aluminum foil and place it into the preheated smoker. Let it smoke for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours until everything is hot and bubbly in the center.
6. Crispy Topping Time:
Remove the foil and sprinkle the crushed cornflakes (or crispy fried onions) evenly over the top. Continue to smoke for an additional 15-20 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s finished smoking, remove it from the smoker and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving. This adds a nice pop of color and freshness!
Enjoy your smoky, cheesy, crispy-topped potatoes as a comforting side dish perfect for any gathering or barbecue! Everyone will love them!
FAQ for Easy Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Yes, you can! If using fresh potatoes, peel and grate them, then make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture to avoid a soggy dish. You’ll need about 4 cups of grated fresh potatoes.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the potato mixture and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before smoking. Take it out about 30 minutes before cooking to let it come to room temperature for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Cream of Chicken Soup?
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, cream of mushroom soup works great as a substitute. You can also make a homemade version using milk, flour, and chicken or vegetable broth if you prefer homemade over canned!
