Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
This cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage recipe is a one-pan wonder loaded with crispy potatoes, savory smoked sausage, and melty cheddar, all seasoned with bold ranch flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds baby red potatoes quartered
- 12 oz smoked sausage sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet 1 oz dry ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley optional
Instructions
- Preheat Oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Prep the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add Sausage: Stir in smoked sausage slices and mix until everything’s well coated.
- Roast: Spread evenly on the baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway, until potatoes are tender and golden.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the top. Return to oven for 5 more minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage – Helpful Tips
Prep Your Ingredients for a Smooth Cook
• Cut potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes for even roasting.
• Slice the smoked sausage into coins or half-moons so it crisps up nicely and mixes well throughout.
• Toss potatoes in a bit of olive oil and seasoning before baking to lock in flavor and get that golden crust. Use the Right Potatoes
• Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best—they hold their shape and get perfectly tender inside.
• Avoid russets unless peeled, as they break down more easily and may become mushy. Layer the Flavor
• Toss the potatoes with a packet of dry ranch seasoning for bold, tangy flavor.
• Add minced garlic or chopped onions for extra savory depth.
• A sprinkle of paprika or crushed red pepper can add a touch of smokiness or heat. Cheese Tips
• Use shredded cheddar, Colby Jack, or mozzarella for melty goodness.
• Mix some cheese into the potatoes while hot, then add a final layer on top and broil until bubbly. Perfect Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a side of green beans, steamed broccoli, or a crisp garden salad.
• Top with sour cream, chopped green onions, or crumbled bacon for a loaded version. Make It a Casserole
• After roasting, layer everything into a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes to bring it all together. Easy Variations to Try
• Spicy Kick: Use a hot smoked sausage and toss in sliced jalapeños.
• Low-Carb Version: Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets.
• Veggie Boost: Mix in zucchini, bell peppers, or corn for added color and nutrition.
• Turkey Sausage: Lighten it up by using smoked turkey sausage or chicken sausage instead. Make-Ahead & Meal Prep
• Roast the potatoes and sausage in advance, then store separately from cheese. Reheat and assemble just before serving for best texture.
• Cut potatoes into uniform ½-inch cubes for even roasting.
• Slice the smoked sausage into coins or half-moons so it crisps up nicely and mixes well throughout.
• Toss potatoes in a bit of olive oil and seasoning before baking to lock in flavor and get that golden crust. Use the Right Potatoes
• Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best—they hold their shape and get perfectly tender inside.
• Avoid russets unless peeled, as they break down more easily and may become mushy. Layer the Flavor
• Toss the potatoes with a packet of dry ranch seasoning for bold, tangy flavor.
• Add minced garlic or chopped onions for extra savory depth.
• A sprinkle of paprika or crushed red pepper can add a touch of smokiness or heat. Cheese Tips
• Use shredded cheddar, Colby Jack, or mozzarella for melty goodness.
• Mix some cheese into the potatoes while hot, then add a final layer on top and broil until bubbly. Perfect Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a side of green beans, steamed broccoli, or a crisp garden salad.
• Top with sour cream, chopped green onions, or crumbled bacon for a loaded version. Make It a Casserole
• After roasting, layer everything into a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes to bring it all together. Easy Variations to Try
• Spicy Kick: Use a hot smoked sausage and toss in sliced jalapeños.
• Low-Carb Version: Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets.
• Veggie Boost: Mix in zucchini, bell peppers, or corn for added color and nutrition.
• Turkey Sausage: Lighten it up by using smoked turkey sausage or chicken sausage instead. Make-Ahead & Meal Prep
• Roast the potatoes and sausage in advance, then store separately from cheese. Reheat and assemble just before serving for best texture.