Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage

Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage is a hearty and delicious dish that combines the comforting flavors of cheese, ranch, and savory sausage. It’s perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress friends with minimal effort. The blend of creamy cheese and the satisfying bite of smoked sausage makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s quite easy to make, making it ideal for any home cook.

How to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage

Ingredients:

• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
• 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped chives (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on a baking sheet and roast for about 25–30 minutes until they are golden and tender.
3. While the potatoes are roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the sausage slices until they are browned on both sides. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and ranch seasoning. Let it simmer gently, then stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until they melt and create a smooth sauce.
5. Combine the roasted potatoes and sautéed sausage in a baking dish. Pour the cheesy ranch sauce over the top and stir gently to coat everything.
6. Bake in the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and hot.
7. Garnish with chopped chives and serve hot!

How to Serve Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage

Serve this dish hot straight from the oven. It pairs well with a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables. You can also have it as a standalone meal since it’s filling and flavorful. Don’t forget to sprinkle on extra chives for garnish, which adds a nice touch of color and flavor.

How to Store Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage

If you have leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot.

Tips to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage

• Feel free to adjust the amount of ranch seasoning to suit your taste. If you prefer it more flavorful, add a little more.
• For extra crunch, consider adding breadcrumbs on top before the final bake.
• If you want it spicy, add some sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.

Variation

You can easily swap out smoked sausage for other kinds of sausage, like turkey or chicken sausage, for a lighter option. Vegetarians can use mushrooms or firm tofu instead of sausage, creating a delicious vegetarian version of this dish.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it up to the baking step and keep it in the fridge. Then, just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with this dish?
It goes well with a simple green salad, roasted veggies, or even some crusty bread.

Can I freeze leftovers?
Freezing is possible, but the texture may change once thawed. If you decide to freeze, be sure to store it in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1-2 months for best quality.