If you love comforting, flavorful one-pan meals that bring everyone to the table with smiles, you are going to adore this Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage Recipe. Imagine tender Yukon Gold potatoes baked to golden perfection, coated in a tangy ranch seasoning, then layered with sharp cheddar cheese and creamy sour cream. The smoky, savory sausage adds just the right meaty punch, making this dish a crave-worthy, crowd-pleasing classic that’s as simple to prepare as it is delicious. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this recipe promises warmth, richness, and a whole lot of cheesy goodness in each bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple ingredients is all it takes to create this delicious dish. Each component plays a crucial role in balancing flavors, textures, and that irresistible cheesy ranch zing that makes this meal unforgettable.
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes: Their creamy texture and buttery flavor roast beautifully to golden crispness.
- 14 oz smoked sausage: Adds a savory, smoky depth that complements the potatoes perfectly.
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning: Brings that signature tangy, herby flavor that ties everything together.
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts over the dish, giving it that rich and gooey finish.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds a smooth creaminess that balances the spices and cheese.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps the potatoes roast evenly and develop a beautiful golden crust.
- 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish): Provide a fresh, mild onion note and a pop of color to the final dish.
How to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot by the time you’re ready to bake. Meanwhile, wash and dice your Yukon Gold potatoes into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and achieve that perfect tender inside with a crispy exterior.
Step 2: Toss the Potatoes
In a large bowl, combine the diced potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Coat them thoroughly to ensure each piece gets that golden, crunchy finish when roasted. This little step infuses flavor and prevents the potatoes from sticking.
Step 3: Combine with Sausage and Season
Add your sliced smoked sausage to the bowl with the seasoned potatoes. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning packet over the entire mixture, then toss everything together until every piece is nicely coated with that tangy, herb-packed ranch blend. This is where the magic happens, layering flavors evenly.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Spread the potato and sausage mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for around 30 to 35 minutes, or until the potatoes are beautifully golden and fork-tender, while the smoked sausage warms through and crisps slightly at the edges.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Sour Cream
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and gently stir in the half cup of sour cream along with the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This combination adds a creamy, cheesy texture that is pure comfort food gold.
Step 6: Final Bake for Melty Goodness
Return your baking sheet to the oven for an extra 5 to 10 minutes, just enough time for the cheese to melt into a bubbly, golden blanket over the potatoes and sausage. Your Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage Recipe is now ready to serve!
How to Serve Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
Chopped green onions sprinkled on top add a fresh, vibrant bite and make the dish look as appealing as it tastes. If you want, a dollop of extra sour cream or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits can take the flavor to exciting new levels.
Side Dishes
This hearty dish really shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed veggies. Something crisp and fresh balances the richness and keeps the meal satisfying yet not too heavy.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy gathering, serve it family-style right from the baking sheet or casserole dish. For a more elegant touch, plate it in individual cast iron skillets or rustic bowls, garnished with herbs or extra cheese for that wow-factor presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making reheated portions taste even better!
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to do so before adding the cheese and sour cream topping. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months, then thaw in the fridge before baking with cheese and sour cream as directed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and the cheese is melty again, usually about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions but expect a slight loss of crisp texture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While Yukon Golds offer a creamy texture and buttery flavor, russets or red potatoes can also work well, just keep in mind they may alter texture and cooking time slightly.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! You can swap out smoked sausage for plant-based sausage alternatives or add extra vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms to keep the dish hearty and flavorful.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely. Use dairy-free cheddar cheese and substitute sour cream with a plant-based yogurt or cashew cream to enjoy the dish without dairy.
How spicy is this recipe?
The Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage Recipe is mild and kid-friendly, but you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you like a little heat.
What’s the best way to dice potatoes evenly?
Using a sharp knife, aim for uniform, bite-sized cubes around 1-inch pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and share the same tender-crisp texture.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough to share with friends and family. I really encourage you to try it soon—you’ll discover a new favorite that’s packed with flavor and pure comfort in every cheesy, savory bite.
Print
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a hearty, savory dish combining tender roasted Yukon Gold potatoes, smoky sausage, and a tangy ranch seasoning, all topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese and creamy sour cream. Perfect for a comforting family meal, this recipe delivers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Sausage
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
- 14 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Seasoning and Cheese
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for roasting the potatoes and sausage evenly.
- Prepare the potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the diced Yukon Gold potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated, which will help them roast to a golden crisp.
- Combine ingredients: Place the seasoned potatoes and sliced smoked sausage on a baking sheet, spreading them out for even cooking.
- Add ranch seasoning: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning packet over the potato and sausage mixture, then toss everything thoroughly to distribute the flavor well.
- Bake the mixture: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender inside and golden brown on the outside.
- Add cheese and sour cream: Remove the baking sheet from the oven, stir in the sour cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese among the potatoes and sausage to ensure an even coat.
- Melt the cheese: Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh, vibrant garnish and serve warm.
Notes
- Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy, buttery texture that holds well during roasting.
- Smoked sausage adds a robust smoky flavor, but you can substitute with kielbasa or other smoked meats.
- Adjust ranch seasoning and salt to taste, especially if your sausage is already salty.
- For extra crispiness, spread ingredients in a single layer on the baking sheet without overcrowding.
- This dish can be prepared ahead by tossing the ingredients together and refrigerating before baking.
- Leftovers reheat well in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
