I love creating comfort food with a twist. One of my all-time favorites is smoked cheesy potatoes recipe. This dish takes classic cheesy potatoes to the next level with rich, smoky flavors.
The combination of tender potatoes, melted cheese, and a hint of smoke makes it irresistible. I often make this for barbecues, family dinners, or potlucks. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats or even as a stand-alone dish.
The best part? It’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients. I use a smoker to infuse deep flavors, but an oven works too.
With the right seasonings and cheese blend, this dish turns out creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold taste. Let me show you how to make it!
Can I Make This Potato Casserole In The Oven?
Yes! You can easily make this smoked cheesy potato casserole in the oven if you don’t have a smoker. Simply follow the same preparation steps, then bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 50-60 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
If you want a smoky flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or use smoked cheese. For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for the last 5 minutes before serving.
How To Prepare Smoked Cheesy Potatoes Recipe?
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American, BBQ
Yield: 12 servings
Equipment Needed
- Pellet grill or smoker
- Large stockpot
- Over-the-sink strainer
- 4.8-quart (10×15-inch) Pyrex or casserole dish
- Mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 5 pounds red potatoes
- 1 pound bacon
- 32 ounces cheddar cheese, cubed
- 8 ounces medium cheddar cheese, cubed
- ½ white onion, diced
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup sour cream
- Fresh ground garlic salt, to taste
- Fresh ground pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by bringing a large stockpot of water to a rolling boil. While waiting, wash the red potatoes thoroughly.
Once the water is boiling, carefully add the potatoes and cook until they are fork-tender. After boiling, drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool in an over-the-sink strainer.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
While the potatoes are cooling, slice the bacon into bite-sized pieces. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it reaches your desired level of crispiness.
Remember, the bacon will cook further in the smoker, so slightly undercooking it now is fine. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Once the potatoes have cooled enough to handle, cut them into chunks and place them in a large mixing bowl.
Add the cooked bacon, cubed cheddar cheeses, diced onion, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic salt, and pepper to the bowl. Stir everything together until well combined.
Step 4: Prepare for Smoking
Lightly spray your 4.8-quart Pyrex or casserole dish with non-stick cooking spray. Transfer the potato mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5: Smoke the Potatoes
Preheat your pellet grill or smoker to 250°F (121°C). Once it reaches the desired temperature, place the casserole dish on the grill grates.
Close the lid and smoke the cheesy potatoes for approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top has a slight golden hue.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Carefully remove the dish from the smoker and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the smoked cheesy potatoes warm as a hearty side dish to complement your main course.
Nutrition Facts Per Serving
- Calories: 784 kcal Carbohydrates: 34g
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 57g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Cholesterol: 132mg
- Sodium: 1288mg
- Potassium: 1141mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 4g
- Vitamin A: 916 IU
- Vitamin C: 17mg
- Calcium: 579mg
- Iron: 2mg
Serving Suggestions
Smoked cheesy potatoes are versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
- Smoked Brisket: The rich, smoky flavors of brisket complement the creamy potatoes perfectly.
- Grilled Chicken Breasts: A lighter protein option that balances the indulgence of the cheesy potatoes.
- Pork Shoulder Roast: The savory depth of pork enhances the overall meal experience.
- Smoked Prime Rib: For an upscale feast, pair with succulent prime rib.
- Smoked Chicken Breast: Another poultry option that melds well with the dish.
- Cornish Game Hens: Individual servings of game hens make for an elegant presentation.
Best Way To Reheat Smoked Cheesy Potatoes?
The best way to reheat smoked cheesy potatoes is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out, and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. If they seem dry, add a splash of milk or cream before reheating.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until hot.
If using a smoker or grill, reheat them over indirect heat at 250°F (120°C) for about 30 minutes, uncovered, to restore some of that smoky flavor.
Why You Will Love This Recip?
You will love this smoked cheesy potatoes recipe because it takes a classic comfort food and elevates it with bold, smoky flavors.
The combination of tender, buttery potatoes and gooey melted cheese creates a rich, satisfying bite every time.
The smoky infusion from the grill adds depth, making this dish stand out at barbecues, holiday feasts, or casual family dinners.
Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare—just layer, season, smoke, and enjoy. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats or as a hearty main dish, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!
How store
let them cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Conclusion
Smoked cheesy potatoes are the ultimate comfort food with a smoky twist. They’re creamy, rich, and packed with bold flavors that make them perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re serving them at a barbecue, holiday gathering, or weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Plus, with easy storage and reheating options, you can enjoy leftovers without any hassle. Give this recipe a try, and I guarantee it will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen!