If you are on the lookout for a side dish that combines crispy, golden roasted potatoes bursting with flavor and a gooey, cheesy finish, then you are going to love this Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of comforting ranch seasoning and sharp cheddar cheese, transforming humble baby red potatoes into a crowd-pleaser. This dish is irresistibly easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a wonderful addition to weeknight dinners or festive gatherings. Once you try it, these cheesy ranch potatoes will become your go-to side for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, with a handful of wholesome ingredients that each bring something special to the table. From the tender baby red potatoes that roast to crispy perfection, to the tangy ranch seasoning and creamy cheddar cheese that add layers of rich flavor, every element plays a vital role.
- 2 pounds baby red potatoes, quartered: The perfect size for roasting evenly with a crispy outside and tender inside.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps coat the potatoes for golden, crunchy edges and adds subtle richness.
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix: Infuses the potatoes with the signature tangy and savory ranch flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a mild garlic aroma to enhance the overall taste without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right amount of ground spice to balance flavors.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully over the potatoes giving a gooey, cheesy topping.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a pop of color to finish.
How to Make Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and either lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or giving it a light grease. Quarter the baby red potatoes so they’re bite-sized and ensure they cook through evenly. Toss the potatoes in a large bowl with olive oil, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper until every piece is wonderfully coated with flavor. This seasoning layer will seep into the potatoes as they roast, making every bite exciting.
Step 2: Roast Until Golden and Tender
Spread the seasoned potato quarters in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roasting them in a single layer helps each piece develop a crispy, golden exterior while staying tender inside. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, turning them over once halfway through to brown all sides beautifully. This is the moment when the potatoes start to get that crave-worthy crunch.
Step 3: Layer with Cheddar Cheese and Finish Roasting
Once the potatoes are perfectly roasted, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly across the top. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, just long enough for the cheese to melt into bubbly gooeyness. If you love extra crispy cheese edges, feel free to broil for 2 to 3 minutes—just keep an eye on it so nothing burns.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove the cheesy ranch oven roasted potatoes from the oven and, if you like, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and herbaceous aroma. Serve these warm and watch them disappear from the plate!
How to Serve Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley is a classic way to brighten up the dish both visually and in terms of flavor. You can also sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar or a dash of smoked paprika for a hint of warmth. A drizzle of sour cream or a few sliced green onions on top can also add a lovely touch.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes Recipe pairs fantastically with grilled chicken, steak, or even a hearty veggie burger. It’s a versatile side that complements everything from casual barbecues to comforting family dinners. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these potatoes in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and chopped herbs. You can also turn the leftovers into a loaded potato bowl with sour cream, bacon bits, and chives, turning the dish into a hearty snack or light meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes Recipe, allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days while maintaining their flavor and texture.
Freezing
While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftover roasted potatoes. Spread them out on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Keep in mind the cheese may not freeze as well, so you might want to add it fresh when reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the potatoes on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven until heated through and crispy again, about 10–15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crisp texture, but it works well for a quick warm-up.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While baby red potatoes work best for their texture and size, Yukon gold or russet potatoes can be great substitutes. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even roasting.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this dish has a mild flavor profile thanks to the ranch seasoning and garlic powder. If you want a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika when seasoning the potatoes.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can omit the cheddar cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative. The ranch seasoning sometimes contains dairy, so double-check the packet or make your own dairy-free ranch blend.
How do I get the potatoes extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispiness, make sure the potatoes are in a single layer with space between them and avoid overcrowding. You can also broil them for 2 to 3 minutes after the cheese has melted for a delightfully crispy finish.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! These potatoes hold up well for a few days in the fridge and reheat beautifully, making them an excellent option for meal prep lunches or dinners that just need a quick warm-up.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting about the combination of tender roasted potatoes, tangy ranch seasoning, and melted cheddar cheese, and this Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes Recipe delivers it all with ease and deliciousness. Whether you’re feeding a family, impressing guests, or just craving something hearty and flavorful, you can’t go wrong with this dish. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a staple in your recipe rotation.
Print
Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes are a crowd-pleasing side dish featuring tender, golden roasted baby red potatoes tossed with savory ranch seasoning and garlic, then topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh parsley for a deliciously comforting flavor.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds baby red potatoes, quartered
Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the quartered baby red potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper until the potatoes are evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
- Roast Potatoes: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the potatoes once halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and tenderness.
- Add Cheese: Once the potatoes are golden brown and tender, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes on the baking sheet.
- Melt Cheese: Return the baking sheet to the oven and roast for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the potatoes from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the potatoes for an additional 2–3 minutes after adding the cheese.
- You can substitute Yukon gold or russet potatoes if red potatoes are not available.
