If you're looking for a quick and delicious meal, these Cheesy Ranch Potatoes with Smoked Sausage are just the ticket! I remember one night when my son, Jake, declared this dish his new favorite. It's easy to see why—who wouldn't love cheesy potatoes and savory sausage in one bite?
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze.
- The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a comforting dish.
- It’s budget-friendly and uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
Pure Comfort
This dish is pure comfort food. The creamy cheese, zesty ranch, and hearty smoked sausage come together to create a meal that warms your heart and fills your belly.
What You Need
- 1 lb 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced – You can use turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- 2 lbs 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved – Any small potatoes work well; red or yellow are great choices.
- 8 oz 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Feel free to substitute with mozzarella for a different flavor.
- 1 packet 1 packet ranch seasoning mix – Homemade ranch seasoning can be used if preferred.
- 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 for quicker cooking.
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 400 °F. This ensures your Cheesy Ranch Potatoes will bake evenly and get that lovely golden color.
- In a large bowl, combine the halved baby potatoes and olive oil. Toss them until they are well-coated. You want them to glisten, which means they will roast beautifully.
- Add the ranch seasoning mix to the potatoes and toss again. The aroma of the ranch will start to fill your kitchen, making everyone curious about dinner.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. This helps them roast evenly and get that crispy texture we all love.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage on top of the potatoes. The sausage will sizzle as it cooks, releasing a savory scent that will have your family rushing to the table.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and lightly golden. Give them a stir halfway through for even cooking.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. The cheese should melt and bubble, creating a deliciously cheesy topping.
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This will help the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve.
- Scoop the Cheesy Ranch Potatoes with Smoked Sausage onto plates and enjoy! The combination of flavors is sure to please everyone.
Make It Perfect
- For extra flavor, add some chopped bell peppers or onions to the baking sheet.
- If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the top before baking.
- Make sure to check the potatoes with a fork to ensure they are tender before adding the cheese.
Mix It Up
- Swap out the smoked sausage for grilled chicken for a lighter option.
- Add broccoli or green beans in the last 10 minutes of baking for a veggie boost.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Pair with garlic bread for a comforting dinner experience.
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FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the potatoes and sausage a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
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, you can freeze the cooked dish. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?
You can use a mix of dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder for a homemade version.
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Just cut them into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Ranch Potatoes with Smoked Sausage are a fantastic fast dinner option that your family will love. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a comforting meal that's sure to become a regular on your dinner table.
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes with Smoked Sausage
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400 °F.
- In a large bowl, combine the halved baby potatoes and olive oil. Toss until well-coated.
- Add the ranch seasoning mix to the potatoes and toss well.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage on top of the potatoes.
- Bake in the oven for about 25 minutes or until potatoes are fork-tender and lightly golden. Stir halfway through.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese melts.
- Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes.
- Scoop onto plates and serve.