Name: Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced; 4 cups baby potatoes, halved or quartered; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 packet ranch seasoning mix; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend); 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving); Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

If you’re looking for a satisfying meal that brings comfort and joy, look no further than this cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage recipe. A blend of roasted baby potatoes and savory smoked sausage, all coated in a flavor-packed ranch seasoning mix, creates a dish that feels like a warm, delicious hug. This recipe not only promises to please the palate but also offers simplicity in preparation, making it an ideal option for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings with family and friends.

The combination of ingredients—creamy cheese, spiced sausage, and tender potatoes—merges flavors beautifully, resulting in a wholesome dish bursting with taste. Plus, it can easily feed a crowd, ensuring there are plenty of happy faces at your dinner table. For those looking to save time, the one-pan preparation means less cleanup, giving you more time to enjoy your meal and the company that comes with it.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward and can be ready in about 55 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal.
Comforting and Flavorful: The combination of ranch seasoning, smoked sausage, and melted cheddar cheese adds a rich flavor profile that indulgently satisfies.
Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with both adults and kids, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy!
Versatile and Adaptable: You can easily customize this dish with different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into the deliciousness of cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage, preparing your kitchen is essential. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and preparing a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking. Gather your ingredients, ensuring everything is fresh and ready to go, from the baby potatoes to the smoked sausage. A sharp knife is crucial for cutting the potatoes and sausage into the perfect sizes, while a medium bowl comes in handy for mixing your seasoning blend. Having measuring spoons on hand will ensure you get the proportions just right, which enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Lastly, keep a spatula nearby for flipping the contents on the baking sheet halfway through cooking for even crisping and browning.

Ingredients

1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
4 cups baby potatoes, halved or quartered
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend)
1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your cooking temperature is optimal for roasting the potatoes and sausage, creating a balanced and mouth-watering texture in your final dish. Next, prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper, which will help avoid any sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes and Sausage

Wash those baby potatoes thoroughly and then cut them into halves or quarters, depending on their size; the goal is to make sure they’re all relatively uniform to cook evenly. In the meantime, slice the smoked sausage into 1/4-inch rounds; the thickness allows the sausage to crisp up beautifully while remaining juicy inside, providing a perfect bite with every forkful.

Step 3: Season and Toss

In a small bowl, combine the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix these spices well so that they become a cohesive blend of flavor. Next, on your prepared baking sheet, toss the baby potatoes in olive oil and coat them with half of the seasoning mix. This process ensures the potatoes soak up the seasoning while roasting, enhancing their overall taste.

Step 4: Roast Potatoes and Sausage

Once the potatoes are evenly coated, spread them out on the baking sheet in a single layer. Scatter the sliced smoked sausage on top, ensuring an even distribution. Sprinkle the remaining seasoning mix over the potatoes and sausage to create a flavor-packed layer of goodness. Roast in the oven for about 35–40 minutes, flipping once halfway through to ensure even cooking, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender.

Step 5: Cheese It Up!

After roasting, remove the sheet from the oven and generously sprinkle the shredded cheese over the potatoes and sausage. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. This step is essential for that gooey, indulgent top layer that enhances every bite, bringing the whole dish together.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove your dish from the oven and let it sit for a minute or two before garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, with sour cream on the side for those who want an extra creamy finish. What’s better than a comforting, hearty meal that you can prepare so easily?

Variations

Protein: Swap out the smoked sausage for chicken or turkey for a leaner option or even use plant-based sausages for a vegetarian take.
Vegetables: Add bell peppers, onions, or broccoli for added nutrition and color. Just chop these veggies into similar sizes for even cooking.
Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spice mixes or herbs, such as Italian seasoning or Cajun spice, to switch up the flavor profile and cater to your taste preferences.

Cooking Notes

For an extra crispy texture, ensure the potatoes are not overcrowded on the baking sheet; this helps them roast rather than steam.
If you prefer a spicier version, opt for a spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these cheesy ranch potatoes with a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Serve alongside grilled corn on the cob for a delightful summer backyard feast.

Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
If you want to make it a one-pot meal, you can add frozen mixed vegetables halfway through roasting for an all-in-one dish that’s colorful and nutritious.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 500
Protein: 24g
Sodium: 1200mg

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. Then, just roast them before serving for a fresh, warm meal.

What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?

If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can make your own using a mix of dried herbs like dill, parsley, and chives along with garlic and onion powder.

Can I freeze cheesy ranch potatoes and sausage?

Yes, you can freeze the dish after cooking. Just let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish reheats well and can be portioned out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Conclusion

This cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a simple and versatile dish that can accommodate various tastes and preferences. We hope you enjoy preparing and sharing this fantastic meal with your loved ones. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe has you covered. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below, and feel free to try out different variations to make it uniquely yours!