Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage
Introduction
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines hearty potatoes, savory smoked sausage, and creamy cheese infused with the tangy goodness of ranch seasoning.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 pounds baby potatoes, quartered (or diced russet potatoes)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Optional Additions
- Crumbled cooked bacon for extra flavor
- A sprinkle of paprika for a smoky touch
- Diced bell peppers for added color and sweetness
- A dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a large casserole dish.
- In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Layer the seasoned potatoes in the baking dish. Scatter the sliced sausage evenly over the potatoes.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- In a small bowl, mix sour cream and heavy cream (if using). Remove the dish from the oven, pour the mixture evenly over the potatoes and sausage, and stir gently to combine.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, and serve hot.
Description
This dish is a perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory.
The potatoes are tender and flavorful, soaking up the rich ranch seasoning, while the sausage provides a smoky and hearty contrast. The melted cheese ties everything together, making each bite irresistible.
Tips for Success
- Use smoked sausage or kielbasa for maximum flavor.
- Cut the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- For quicker cooking, parboil the potatoes before assembling the dish.
- Let the cheese melt naturally in the oven for the best texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 26g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fiber: 3g
Conclusion
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s as simple as it is delicious. With its bold flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to become a household favorite.
Recommendation
Pair this dish with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
It’s also excellent as a main course or a hearty side dish for larger meals.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make a lighter version, use turkey sausage, low-fat cheese, and Greek yogurt in place of sour cream. Serve alongside a light soup or steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal.