Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

If you’re looking for an easy, cheesy, and satisfying one-pan meal, this Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage recipe is a winner! Combining tender potatoes, smoky sausage, and creamy ranch-seasoned cheese, this dish is packed with flavor and perfect for busy weeknights or comforting family dinners.

Serve it as a main course or a hearty side dish, and pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and delicious meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Cheesy & Flavorful – Ranch seasoning and melty cheese make this dish irresistible.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 40 minutes with simple ingredients.
✔ Family-Friendly – A dish everyone at the table will love.
✔ Customizable – Add your favorite veggies or swap the sausage for variety.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great as a main dish or a hearty side for potlucks.

Ingredients for Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

• 1 pound (450g) smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
• 1 ½ pounds (680g) baby potatoes, quartered (or diced Russet potatoes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream or milk
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup broccoli florets or diced bell peppers for added veggies.
• ¼ cup cooked, crumbled bacon for extra flavor.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

✔ Large Skillet or Oven-Safe Pan – For cooking the sausage and potatoes.
✔ Mixing Bowl – For tossing potatoes with seasonings.
✔ Spoon or Spatula – For stirring the ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if finishing the dish in the oven.

Step 2: Cook the Smoked Sausage

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until browned.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

1. In a mixing bowl, toss the quartered potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and half of the ranch seasoning mix.
2. Add the seasoned potatoes to the same skillet and cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and tender.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Cheese

1. Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream.
2. Sprinkle in the remaining ranch seasoning mix and stir to coat the potatoes.
3. Return the cooked smoked sausage to the skillet and stir everything together.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake or Finish on the Stovetop

• Oven Method: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Stovetop Method: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
2. Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy, hearty dish!

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Tips for the Best Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

✔ Use Baby Potatoes – Their creamy texture pairs perfectly with the cheese and ranch flavors.
✔ Cut Potatoes Evenly – Ensures they cook at the same rate.
✔ Add Crunch with Bacon – Crumbled bacon makes an excellent topping.
✔ Customize with Veggies – Add broccoli, peppers, or even mushrooms for a complete meal.
✔ Use an Oven-Safe Skillet – Saves time by transferring directly from stovetop to oven.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Add More Spice – Toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
Make It Vegetarian – Omit the sausage and add extra vegetables like zucchini or squash.
Swap the Cheese – Use pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda for a different flavor.
Use Sweet Potatoes – For a slightly sweeter twist, substitute sweet potatoes.
Lighten It Up – Use milk instead of heavy cream and turkey sausage instead of smoked sausage.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storing Leftovers

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

Freezing Instructions

• Allow the dish to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen potatoes?

Yes, but thaw them first and pat them dry to remove excess moisture before cooking.

What can I serve with this dish?

Pair it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the pan?

Use a non-stick skillet and make sure to toss the potatoes frequently while cooking.

Can I make this dish lighter?

Yes! Use milk instead of heavy cream and low-fat cheese for a lighter version.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage dish is a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender potatoes, smoky sausage, and creamy, cheesy goodness, every bite is packed with comfort and satisfaction.

Try this one-pan recipe today, and enjoy a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share it with friends and loved ones—they’ll love it just as much as you do!

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