These Cheesy Ranch Potatoes with Smoked Sausage are a tasty and fun dish! You’ll love the creamy cheese mixed with the zesty ranch flavor, all cooked with savory sausage and tender potatoes.
Making this dish is a breeze! Just chop, mix, and bake it to golden perfection. It’s a meal that even the pickiest eaters will gobble up—who can resist cheesy goodness? 😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: I love the flavor of smoked sausage, but you could use turkey sausage for a lighter option or even chicken sausage. If you’re vegetarian, try using a plant-based sausage or some hearty mushrooms for a meaty texture.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for this recipe because they get crispy on the outside but stay fluffy inside. If you don’t have them, Yukon Golds are a good alternative. For a healthier twist, sweet potatoes are delicious too!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a nice sharp flavor. You can swap it out for Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or even mozzarella for a milder taste. If you want it dairy-free, look for a plant-based cheese option.
Ranch Dressing: You can use homemade ranch dressing for a fresher flavor, or swap it with a cream-based dressing like blue cheese or Caesar if you prefer. For a lighter version, try Greek yogurt mixed with herbs and seasonings.
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the potatoes perfectly tender takes a bit of attention. Start by cutting your potatoes into even 1-inch pieces. This ensures they cook uniformly. Here’s a quick tip:
- Parboil your potato cubes for 5-7 minutes if you want them extra soft inside and golden outside.
- Make sure to stir halfway through the baking time, as this helps them crisp up all over.
- Check for tenderness with a fork; they should be soft but not mushy when done.
How to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 4 medium potatoes, diced (about 4 cups)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and 35-40 minutes to cook, so plan for a total of around 50 minutes. You’ll spend a little time chopping and mixing, with most of the time spent in the oven getting everything nice and golden!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready when you’re done preparing the ingredients!
2. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the diced potatoes, sliced smoked sausage, ranch dressing, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated and mixed. It’s a fun and simple step, really!
3. Arrange on Baking Sheet:
Spread the mixture evenly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a greased baking dish. Make sure it’s in a nice, even layer so they cook nicely.
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. Don’t forget to stir halfway through to help everything cook evenly. You want the potatoes to be tender and golden brown!
5. Add Cheese:
Once the potatoes are cooked, take them out of the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. The aroma will be amazing!
6. Bake Again:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. You’ll see it turning deliciously gooey!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Before serving, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Now you’re ready to enjoy your Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage!
Dig in and savor every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even kielbasa. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if the sausage you choose requires it, and make sure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the potatoes.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Dressing?
If you don’t have ranch dressing on hand, you can use a variety of alternatives like Italian dressing, blue cheese dressing, or even a homemade ranch made from yogurt or sour cream mixed with herbs. Just keep in mind that different dressings will subtly change the flavor of the dish.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through. If it feels dry, a splash of ranch dressing can help revive the flavors!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep it ahead! Combine all the ingredients and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to bring it to room temperature for about 20 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
