Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

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There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, cheesy, and flavorful potato dish, and these Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage are a true crowd-pleaser. With perfectly roasted potatoes, rich melted cheese, smoky sausage, and the bold taste of ranch seasoning, this dish is packed with savory goodness. Whether you serve it as a main course or a hearty side, it’s a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.

Savory and Cheesy Comfort in Every Bite

This recipe brings together some of the most beloved ingredients in a delicious, creamy, and cheesy combination. The potatoes are roasted to golden perfection, the sausage adds a smoky depth of flavor, and the ranch seasoning ties everything together with its signature tangy and herby taste. The final touch of gooey melted cheese makes this dish irresistible.

Let’s dive into this easy and satisfying recipe that will quickly become a family favorite!

Ingredients for Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

To make this deliciously cheesy and flavorful dish, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that blend together perfectly. Each one contributes to the rich, savory taste that makes this meal so satisfying.

• Potatoes – Use Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for the best texture. They hold their shape while becoming perfectly tender and crispy.
• Smoked Sausage – Adds a deep, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese and seasoned potatoes. Use your favorite brand of smoked sausage, kielbasa, or andouille.
• Cheddar Cheese – A sharp or mild cheddar will create that gooey, melty topping that makes this dish so comforting.
• Ranch Seasoning – This blend of herbs and spices enhances the dish with a bold, tangy, and slightly garlicky flavor. You can use store-bought or homemade ranch seasoning.
• Butter – Helps to coat the potatoes and sausage, giving them a delicious richness and preventing them from drying out.
• Milk or Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess and helps the cheese sauce bind everything together.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances the savory flavors with an extra boost of garlicky goodness.
• Black Pepper – Adds a touch of spice to balance out the creaminess of the dish.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional) – A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds color and a touch of freshness to the finished dish.

How to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

This dish comes together easily in just a few steps. With minimal prep and baking time, you’ll have a hearty and cheesy meal ready to serve in no time!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes and Sausage

Wash and dice the potatoes into small, bite-sized cubes. Slice the smoked sausage into rounds or half-moons for even distribution in the dish.

Step 3: Season and Mix

In a large bowl, combine the diced potatoes and sliced sausage. Drizzle melted butter over the top, then sprinkle in the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Toss everything together to coat evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Potatoes and Sausage

Transfer the mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are fork-tender.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the potatoes and sausage. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve warm and enjoy the rich, cheesy, and smoky flavors in every bite!

How Long to Bake Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

The baking time for this dish depends on the size of your potato cubes and your oven settings. Here’s a general guide to ensure perfectly cooked potatoes with a deliciously cheesy topping:

• Small Potato Cubes (½-inch pieces) – Bake covered for 30-35 minutes, then uncover and bake with cheese for an additional 10-15 minutes.
• Medium Potato Cubes (1-inch pieces) – Bake covered for 35-40 minutes, then uncover and bake for another 10-15 minutes.
• Larger Potato Chunks (over 1-inch) – Bake covered for 45 minutes or more, checking for tenderness before adding cheese and baking uncovered.

To check for doneness, pierce the potatoes with a fork—they should be tender but not falling apart. If they’re not soft enough, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes before adding the cheese.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, don’t worry—this dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day enjoyment. Here’s how to store it properly:

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• Freezer: While you can freeze this dish, the texture of the potatoes may change slightly. If freezing, store in an airtight container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

To ensure the best texture and flavor, here are a few helpful tips:

• Cut the potatoes evenly – Uniformly sized pieces will cook at the same rate, preventing some from becoming too soft while others remain undercooked.
• Stir occasionally – Mixing the potatoes and sausage while baking ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
• Use freshly grated cheese – Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect how well it melts. Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly and creates a richer, creamier texture.
• Experiment with flavors – Try adding crispy bacon, diced bell peppers, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor.
• Serve with a side – This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

With these simple tips, your cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage will turn out perfectly every time!

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