Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage is the kind of meal that brings warmth and comfort to the table with very little effort. It combines hearty potatoes, smoky sausage, and a creamy, cheesy ranch coating into a dish that feels both satisfying and familiar. I often make this recipe on busy evenings when I want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. Everything cooks together, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully while keeping cleanup minimal. I tested this dish using different potato varieties, and russet and baby potatoes both worked well, offering slightly different textures. Whether served as a family dinner or a casual gathering dish, this recipe delivers bold flavor, creamy texture, and dependable results every time.
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Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage: A Comforting One-Pan Dinner
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a hearty, comforting one-pan dish made with tender potatoes, savory smoked sausage, ranch seasoning, and melted cheese—perfect for an easy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 900 g baby potatoes (halved or quartered)
- 400 g smoked sausage (sliced)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet (30 g) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 200 g shredded cheddar cheese
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Grease a large baking dish or sheet pan.
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25 minutes, then remove from the oven and stir.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage to the dish and mix well.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
- Sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake for an additional 5–7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- You can use smoked turkey sausage for a lighter option.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
- Swap cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella if preferred.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Potatoes
Potatoes form the base of this dish, providing a hearty texture that absorbs the ranch seasoning and cheese. Cutting them evenly ensures consistent cooking.
Smoked sausage
Smoked sausage adds deep, savory flavor and protein. Its richness balances the mild potatoes perfectly.
Cheddar cheese
Cheddar melts smoothly and adds sharpness. Using freshly grated cheese improves texture and flavor.
Ranch seasoning mix
Ranch seasoning brings tangy, herby notes that define the dish. It ties together the cheese, sausage, and potatoes.
Olive oil
Olive oil helps the potatoes roast evenly while enhancing their natural flavor.
Garlic powder
Garlic powder adds subtle depth without overpowering the ranch seasoning.
Black pepper
Black pepper provides gentle heat and balance.
Fresh parsley
Parsley adds a fresh finish and visual contrast before serving.
Directions
Begin by preheating the oven and lightly greasing a large baking dish. Wash and cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces, keeping them as uniform as possible. Slice the smoked sausage into rounds.
In a large mixing bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper until evenly coated. Spread them into the prepared baking dish in a single layer. Bake until the potatoes are beginning to soften and lightly brown.
Remove the dish from the oven and add the smoked sausage, stirring gently to combine. Return to the oven and bake until the sausage is heated through and the potatoes are tender.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top and return the dish to the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Essential Equipment
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.
knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 to 6 people. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, baking time is approximately 45 minutes, and resting time is 5 minutes before serving.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven until warmed through or microwave individual portions. The cheese may firm slightly after chilling but softens when reheated.
Variations and Customizations
Cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage is easy to customize. You can add sliced bell peppers, onions, or broccoli for extra color and nutrition. I have also tested this dish with mozzarella and Colby Jack cheese, both of which melt well and provide a milder flavor.
For a spicy version, use hot smoked sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes. You can also swap ranch seasoning for a homemade blend if you prefer to control sodium levels. This recipe works well in a skillet or slow cooker, making it adaptable for different cooking methods and schedules.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This dish provides carbohydrates from potatoes, protein from smoked sausage, and fats from cheese and oil. It is naturally gluten-free but not suitable for dairy-free diets without substitutions. Enjoy it as a balanced meal when paired with a green vegetable or salad.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Even potato cuts
Uniform pieces ensure even roasting.
Cheese timing
Add cheese near the end to prevent overbrowning.
Crispier potatoes
Spread potatoes in a single layer to avoid steaming.
Flavor boost
Finish with fresh herbs for added brightness.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat before serving.
What type of potatoes work best?
Russet, Yukon Gold, or baby potatoes all work well.
Can I use a different sausage?
Yes, kielbasa or turkey sausage are good alternatives.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it is mild unless spicy sausage is used.
Can I cook this in a skillet?
Yes, it can be prepared in a large oven-safe skillet.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely, vegetables like peppers or onions work well.
How do I make it crispier?
Roast uncovered and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes.
What cheese melts best?
Cheddar, Colby Jack, and mozzarella are all suitable.
What should I serve with it?
A simple salad or steamed vegetables pair nicely.
Conclusion
Cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage is a dependable, comforting dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. With its creamy cheese, savory sausage, and perfectly seasoned potatoes, it is a meal that satisfies both busy weeknights and relaxed gatherings. This recipe is versatile, easy to customize, and sure to become a household favorite.
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