If you're looking for a quick and tasty dinner, these Cheesy Ranch Potatoes with Smoked Sausage are just the ticket. I remember one night when my son, Jake, declared he was too tired to eat anything. But once he caught a whiff of these cheesy, savory potatoes, he was back at the table in no time. Trust me, they'll have your family coming back for seconds!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s a one-pan wonder that makes cleanup a breeze.
- The combination of cheesy goodness and smoky sausage is irresistible.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings.
Pure Comfort
These Cheesy Ranch Potatoes are pure comfort food. The creamy cheese melts perfectly over the tender potatoes, while the smoked sausage adds a delightful kick. It’s the kind of dish that warms your heart and fills your belly.
What You Need
- 1 lb 1 lb baby potatoes, halved – You can use any small potatoes like red or yellow.
- 12 oz 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced – Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- 1 cup 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Use any cheese you love, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
- 1 oz 1 oz ranch seasoning mix – Homemade ranch seasoning works too!
- 2 tbsp 2 tbsp olive oil – Can substitute with vegetable oil.
- to taste Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust based on your preference.
Time to Cook
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Total: 40 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: You can prep the ingredients a day in advance.
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 400 °F. This ensures everything cooks evenly and gets that nice golden color.
- In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure the potatoes are well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly and get crispy edges.
- Bake the potatoes for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through. You want them to be tender and slightly golden.
- While the potatoes are baking, slice the smoked sausage. The aroma of the sausage will start to fill your kitchen, making everyone eager for dinner.
- After 20 minutes, remove the potatoes from the oven and stir in the sliced sausage. Return to the oven for another 10 minutes, until the sausage is heated through.
- In the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 5 minutes.
- Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help the cheese set a bit, making it easier to serve.
- Scoop generous portions onto plates and watch your family dig in with smiles on their faces!
Make It Perfect
- For extra flavor, try adding some chopped green onions or bacon bits on top before serving.
- If you like it spicy, toss in some diced jalapeños with the potatoes.
- Make sure to check the potatoes with a fork for doneness; they should be tender all the way through.
Mix It Up
- Swap the smoked sausage for diced chicken or ground beef for a different twist.
- Add some frozen mixed vegetables in the last 10 minutes of cooking for a colorful addition.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
- Pair with garlic bread for a comforting dinner.
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FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients a day in advance and store them in the fridge.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Cheesy Ranch Potatoes?
Yes, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?
You can use Italian seasoning or a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just swap the smoked sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it altogether.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Ranch Potatoes with Smoked Sausage are not just delicious; they're a family favorite that brings everyone together. Whether it's a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, this dish is sure to please. So grab your ingredients and let the cheesy goodness begin!
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes with Smoked Sausage
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400 °F.
- In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper until well-coated.
- Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake the potatoes for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and slightly golden.
- While the potatoes bake, slice the smoked sausage.
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and stir in the sliced sausage. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, until the sausage is heated through.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and bake for about 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Take the dish out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes to help the cheese set.
- Serve generous portions on plates and enjoy.