There’s something about the smell of roasted potatoes and smoky sausage filling the kitchen that instantly feels like comfort. Cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage is one of those meals that doesn’t need fancy techniques or long prep; just simple ingredients baked until golden and bubbling. I first made this on a chilly night when I needed something quick but satisfying, and it’s been a favorite ever since. It’s the kind of recipe that makes everyone stop and ask, “What’s cooking?” before they even see the pan.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cheesy potato and sausage bake hits all the right notes; hearty, flavorful, and easy enough for a weeknight. The ranch seasoning adds herby tang, while the melted cheddar gives every bite creamy richness. The sausage brings smoky depth that balances perfectly with crispy edges of the roasted potatoes.
It’s a versatile dish, too. Swap the cheese for pepper jack if you like heat, or try turkey sausage for a lighter twist. Because it’s oven-baked in one pan, cleanup is minimal, making it ideal after a busy day. If you’ve enjoyed bold flavors in dishes like Street Corn Chicken Rice, you’ll appreciate how this recipe layers simple ingredients into something truly satisfying.
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Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
A hearty one-pan dinner of cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage, baked with golden melted cheese and ranch seasoning.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds baby potatoes, quartered
14 ounces smoked sausage, sliced
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Spread potatoes on a lined baking sheet and roast 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
3. Stir in sliced smoked sausage and bake another 15 minutes until browned.
4. Sprinkle cheese over top and bake 5 more minutes until melted.
5. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Notes
Try different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella.
Add veggies such as peppers or broccoli for variety.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1080mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to bring cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage together:
- 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes, quartered
- 14 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite blend)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Every ingredient plays its part. Potatoes crisp on the outside, the sausage turns juicy and smoky, and the ranch packet keeps seasoning stress-free. Melted cheese ties it all together, making each bite irresistible.
How to Make It
- Prep the potatoes. Preheat oven to 400°F. Toss quartered potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Roast. Spread potatoes on a lined baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes, flipping once halfway.
- Add sausage. Stir in the sliced smoked sausage and return to the oven for 15 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender and sausage browns.
- Top with cheese. Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the top and bake for another 5 minutes until melted and bubbly.
- Serve. Garnish with green onions and enjoy warm from the oven.
It’s that easy: toss, roast, and serve. Just like Homemade Butter Chicken Recipe brings comfort with bold spices, this dish delivers hearty flavors with minimal effort.
Tips and Variations
- Try different cheeses. Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack give unique twists.
- Add vegetables. Toss in peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for color and extra nutrition.
- Make it creamier. Mix in sour cream or cream cheese before adding the cheddar.
- Change the sausage. Use turkey, kielbasa, or even spicy andouille.
- Save time. Use pre-cooked microwaveable potatoes if you’re in a rush.
If you’re in the mood for another hearty potato recipe, my Ultimate Guide to Making a Perfect Potato Galette shows how versatile potatoes can be; from rustic to elegant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Roast the potatoes and sausage in advance, then reheat in the oven with cheese just before serving.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of ranch mix?
Absolutely. A mix of garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, and dill makes a homemade ranch-style flavor.
What type of potatoes are best?
Baby gold or red potatoes work well, but Yukon or russet cut into chunks also roast beautifully.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven so the potatoes stay crispy.
Conclusion
Cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage proves that simple ingredients can create unforgettable comfort food. It’s quick to prepare, flexible enough for personal touches, and guaranteed to bring everyone to the table. Whether you’re feeding family on a weeknight or looking for a side that steals the show, this recipe will become part of your regular rotation.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.
