Easy Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage Recipe – Perfect Comfort Food!
Looking for a savory, hearty dish that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy? This cheesy ranch potatoes and sausage recipe combines crispy potatoes, juicy sausage, and melty cheese, all coated in zesty ranch seasoning. Ideal for a cozy family dinner, a game-day meal, or a potluck, this one-pan wonder is both satisfying and incredibly flavorful. The best part? It only takes a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) baby potatoes (or red potatoes), quartered
- 1 lb (450g) smoked sausage (like kielbasa or andouille), sliced into rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
Preparation
- Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large baking sheet or 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or a light coating of oil. - Prepare the Potatoes and Sausage
In a large mixing bowl, combine the quartered potatoes and sausage slices. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until evenly coated. - Season the Dish
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the potatoes and sausage. Toss again to ensure everything is coated evenly. - Arrange in Baking Dish
Spread the seasoned potatoes and sausage onto the prepared baking sheet or dish in an even layer to ensure even cooking. - Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the potatoes are tender and the sausage is golden brown around the edges. - Add the Cheese
Remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top, and return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Garnish and Serve
For a fresh touch, sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve hot, and enjoy the cheesy, ranch-seasoned goodness!
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Creamy Twist: Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to add color and flavor.
- Cheese Variety: Swap out cheddar for pepper jack, mozzarella, or a blend for unique flavors.
Cooking Note
For best results, slice the potatoes into evenly-sized quarters to ensure they cook uniformly. If using larger potatoes, consider parboiling them for 5 minutes before baking to ensure they soften in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy ranch potato and sausage dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It’s also fantastic on its own as a hearty, filling dish.
Tips
- Line the Baking Dish: Use parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
- Even Cheese Melt: For a golden, melted cheese finish, broil for the last 1-2 minutes—just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Make It a Breakfast Bake: Add cracked eggs to the dish in the final 10 minutes of baking for a breakfast twist.
Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-50 minutes
- Total Time: 50-60 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Sodium: 850mg
FAQs
- Can I use a different sausage?
Yes, you can use any type of sausage you like, including Italian sausage, bratwurst, or chicken sausage. Just adjust for flavor and cooking time as needed. - Can this dish be made ahead?
Absolutely! You can assemble everything ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to account for the chilled ingredients. - What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
Mix 1 tsp each of dried dill, dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt to create a homemade ranch flavor.
Conclusion
This cheesy ranch potatoes and sausage recipe is your go-to for a comforting, flavorful meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser and makes any gathering or family dinner more special. So grab your ingredients and bake up this cheesy, savory delight—everyone will thank you!