Savory Cheesy Ranch Potatoes And Smoked Sausage Recipe

Crispy potatoes drizzled with creamy ranch blend perfectly with smoky sausage in this mouthwatering cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage recipe.

Comfort meets convenience on a single sheet pan.

Hearty ingredients promise maximum flavor with minimal cleanup.

Families adore this quick weeknight dinner that satisfies every hunger pang.

Simple ingredients come together in less than an hour.

Rich cheese and zesty ranch create a flavor explosion that makes everyone smile.

When you want something delicious and satisfying, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Pairings That Go Well With Cheesy Ranch Potatoes

• Craft a Crisp Salad Companion: Whip up a light, tangy green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette to balance the rich, cheesy potatoes and smoky sausage.
• Pair with Bold Red Wine: Select a medium-bodied red wine like Zinfandel or Cabernet Sauvignon to complement the smoky sausage and cut through the creamy cheese flavors.
• Serve with Cold Beer Backup: Grab a hoppy IPA or a crisp lager that will refresh the palate and match the hearty, robust nature of the potato and sausage dish.
• Add Fresh Herb Garnish: Sprinkle chopped chives or green onions over the final dish to introduce a bright, fresh element that lifts the entire flavor profile.

Best Storage Methods for Cheesy Ranch Potatoes

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Pack the cooled dish in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months. Freeze without the sour cream and fresh parsley.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until thoroughly warm. Add a splash of water if the potatoes seem dry.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or russet potatoes. Each type will give a slightly different texture and flavor to the dish.

• Is ranch dressing mix necessary for the recipe?

The ranch dressing mix adds a tangy, herby flavor, but you can substitute it with a blend of dried herbs like dill, chives, and garlic powder if needed.

• What kind of smoked sausage works best?

Kielbasa or andouille sausage are great options. Choose a sausage with good smoky flavor that complements the potatoes and cheese.

• Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace the smoked sausage with plant-based sausage or add extra vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a vegetarian version.

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

• Simplify Meal Prep: Toss ingredients in one bowl, spread on a baking sheet, and let the oven do the work, making dinner preparation a breeze for busy families.
• Customize with Ease: Swap sausage types, adjust seasoning, or add extra vegetables to match personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Create Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Combine classic flavors of potatoes, sausage, and cheese that appeal to both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
• Minimal Clean-Up Hero: Using parchment paper and a single baking sheet means less washing up, saving precious time after cooking and enjoying the meal.

Ingredients Inside Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage

Main Ingredients:

• Potatoes: A hearty base that provides a comforting and filling foundation for the dish.

• Smoked Sausage: Adds a rich, smoky flavor and substantial protein to the meal.

• Cheddar Cheese: Provides a creamy, tangy element that melts beautifully and enhances the overall taste.

• Olive Oil, Melted Butter: Helps coat the potatoes and promotes even browning and crispiness.
• Garlic Powder, Paprika, Ranch Dressing Mix: Creates a complex and zesty flavor profile for the dish.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the overall taste.

• Sour Cream, Fresh Parsley: Adds a cool, creamy contrast and fresh herbal garnish to brighten the dish.

How to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Fire up your oven to 400F (200C). Grab a large baking sheet and give it a quick spray of cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Chop and Season Potatoes

• Olive oil
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Ranch seasoning mix
• Salt
• Black pepper

Massage the seasonings into the potatoes until every piece is coated with flavor.

Step 3: Bring in the Sausage

Slice the smoked sausage into hearty rounds. Drop these meaty circles into the potato mixture and give everything a good toss so the sausage gets friendly with the seasonings.

Step 4: Spread the Goodness

Transfer the potato and sausage medley onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread them out in a single layer so each piece gets crispy and golden.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the hot oven. Roast for 30-35 minutes, giving the pan a quick stir halfway through to ensure even browning.

The potatoes should turn crisp and golden with edges that crackle.

Step 6: Cheese Finale

Pull the baking sheet out and shower the entire dish with shredded cheddar cheese.

Return to the oven for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese melts into a gooey blanket.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a moment.

Drizzle with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and fresh flavor.

Tips to Perfect Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage

• Pat potatoes dry before seasoning to ensure they roast instead of steam, creating a deliciously crispy exterior.
• Swap ranch mix with different seasoning blends like cajun or Italian to match your flavor preferences and keep the dish exciting.
• Cover the baking sheet with foil during the last cheese-melting stage if you notice the top browning too quickly, protecting your cheesy topping.
• Choose high-quality smoked sausage with minimal water content to prevent excess moisture that might make potatoes soggy during baking.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in a skillet to restore the original crispy texture, avoiding microwave softening.

Flavor Variations on Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage

• Spicy Southwest Style: Replace ranch mix with taco seasoning, add diced bell peppers and jalapeños. Top with pepper jack cheese and cilantro for a zesty kick.
• Mediterranean Herb Fusion: Swap ranch mix for Italian herbs, use chicken sausage instead. Sprinkle feta cheese and add chopped kalamata olives for Mediterranean flair.
• Breakfast Potato Casserole: Incorporate scrambled eggs into the mixture before baking. Use breakfast sausage links and top with cheddar and green onions for a morning-friendly version.
• BBQ Smokehouse Edition: Mix in barbecue sauce with the potatoes, use applewood smoked sausage. Finish with smoked gouda cheese and garnish with green onions for a rich, smoky profile.

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes And Smoked Sausage Recipe

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4.7 from 26 reviews

• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 45 1x

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Description

Creamy Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage dance with bold flavors from hearty ingredients. Comfort meets convenience in this simple skillet meal that brings family together for a satisfying dinner packed with zesty ranch and melted cheese.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) smoked sausage, sliced into rounds

Starch:

• 4–5 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into bite-sized cubes

Seasoning and Dairy:

• 1 packet ranch dressing mix (1 ounce / 28 grams)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare oven and baking surface at 400F (200C), coating a large baking sheet with non-stick spray or parchment paper for effortless cleanup.
2. Cube potatoes into uniform bite-sized pieces, creating consistent cooking texture. Thoroughly coat potato chunks with olive oil, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, ensuring complete flavor distribution.
3. Slice smoked sausage into half-moon shapes, integrating with seasoned potato mixture to create a harmonious blend of ingredients.
4. Distribute potato and sausage combination across prepared baking sheet in a single, even layer to promote optimal browning and crispiness.
5. Roast in preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, rotating pan midway through cooking process to guarantee uniform golden-brown coloration and tender potato consistency.
6. Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over roasted potato and sausage mixture, returning to oven for additional 5-7 minutes until cheese melts completely and develops slight bubbling.
7. Allow dish to rest momentarily after removing from oven, then embellish with dollops of sour cream and freshly chopped parsley for vibrant color and enhanced flavor profile.

Notes

• Slice sausage uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Parboil potatoes briefly before roasting to create extra crispy exterior and creamy interior.
• Use high-starch potatoes like Russet for maximum crispiness and better cheese adherence.
• Opt for low-sodium ranch mix to control salt levels and customize seasoning intensity.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 45
• Calories: 147
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 220 mg
• Fat: 5 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 10 mg