If there’s one dish that never fails to satisfy both comfort-food cravings and the pickiest eaters at my table, it’s Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage. Imagine crispy-edged potatoes drenched in savory ranch seasoning, tender slices of smoky sausage, and a golden layer of gooey cheddar and mozzarella—all finished with a scattering of fresh green onion. This easy sheet pan meal brings big flavors and simple prep to weeknight dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need a seriously crowd-pleasing main course.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every bite of Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage is a testament to how humble ingredients can create something spectacular. Here’s why each one is essential—and a tip to make your meal even more memorable!
- Baby potatoes (1 1/2 pounds, quartered): These roast up beautifully with tender middles and crispy edges, and their petite size reduces chopping time.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the potatoes roast evenly and adds just the right amount of richness.
- Dry ranch seasoning mix (1 packet, 1 oz): Your shortcut to herby, tangy flavor—don’t skip it!
- Smoked sausage (12 ounces, sliced into rounds): Provides a meaty, smoky punch that pairs perfectly with creamy potatoes.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups): Melts to golden perfection for that classic cheesy pull.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup): Adds stretch and mild creaminess to balance the cheddar.
- Chopped green onions (1/4 cup, optional): Sprinkle on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust to your preference for the perfect seasoning blend.
How to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Sheet
Crank up your oven to 400°F and grab a large baking sheet. Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup, or lightly grease it if you prefer. This is the secret to golden, caramelized potatoes and minimal mess afterward.
Step 2: Season and Roast the Potatoes
In a spacious mixing bowl, toss your quartered baby potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning mix, and a dash of salt and pepper. Stir well—make sure every potato is wearing a cozy coat of herby ranch! Spread them out evenly on the prepared baking sheet to ensure every bite gets a chance to crisp up in the oven. Roast for 20 minutes to start building that irresistible texture.
Step 3: Add the Sausage for a Flavor Boost
Once your potatoes start turning golden—but are still a bit firm—pull the pan from the oven. Scatter the smoked sausage slices right over the potatoes. This lets the sausage mingle and sizzle, infusing the whole sheet with smoky goodness. Return the pan to the oven and roast for another 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are perfectly tender and the sausage is browned and juicy.
Step 4: Make It Cheesy!
Now for the magic: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses generously over everything. A blend of cheeses gives you that classic gooey melt and plenty of rich flavor. Pop the tray back into the oven for about 5 minutes, just until the cheese is molten, bubbly, and starting to brown in spots. If you crave an extra-crispy finish, try broiling for 2–3 minutes (just keep an eye on it!).
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
As soon as the pan comes out, shower it with fresh green onions if you like—this step adds a splash of color and a little bite. Serve Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage hot, straight from the sheet pan (the messier, the better) and enjoy every gooey, savory, potato-loaded forkful.
How to Serve Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage
Garnishes
A finishing sprinkle of green onions is always a winner, but don’t stop there! Add a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped parsley, or even some crumbled bacon for extra crunch and color. Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage are all about making the final plate look as inviting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but it also plays well with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or a basket of warm dinner rolls. For a lighter meal, serve Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage with a simple cucumber-tomato salad or fresh fruit on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Pour the finished potatoes and sausage into a large serving bowl family-style, or plate it individually with an extra sprinkle of cheese. Want to impress? Use mini cast-iron skillets for a fun, rustic look that keeps everything warm. For more casual gatherings, keep things simple: serve right from the sheet pan with a big spoon!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage (lucky you!), cool them to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers just as irresistible as the original meal.
Freezing
To freeze, divide the cooled dish into meal-sized portions and pack in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes, either covered with foil or in an oven-safe dish, to restore the cheesy topping’s gooey glory. The microwave works for smaller portions, but oven reheating helps keep the potatoes and cheese from turning rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While baby potatoes roast quickly and have a creamy texture, feel free to use Yukon Golds or small red potatoes—just make sure to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
What’s the best sausage for Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage?
Smoked sausage brings classic flavor, but feel free to substitute turkey sausage or kick things up a notch with spicy andouille. Even vegetarian options like plant-based smoked sausage work beautifully in this recipe.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the potatoes and sausage on the baking sheet, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Roast and add the cheese just before serving to keep everything fresh and melty.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage is naturally gluten-free, provided your ranch seasoning and sausage are certified gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure if you’re cooking for someone with celiac or gluten sensitivity.
How can I make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne to the ranch seasoning, toss in some sliced jalapenos, or use a spicy sausage to turn up the heat. The cheesy base helps balance out spicier flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage in your own kitchen. There’s something deeply satisfying about a recipe that packs in so much comfort, flavor, and ease. Whether you’re feeding your family or delighting friends, this dish brings everyone back for seconds—guaranteed!
Print
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage are a delicious and easy one-pan meal that the whole family will love. Tender baby potatoes are seasoned with ranch seasoning, roasted until crispy, then topped with smoked sausage and a blend of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. It’s a hearty and comforting dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Baby Potatoes:
1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes (quartered)
Olive Oil Mixture:
1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 (1 oz) packet dry ranch seasoning mix, salt, and pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients:
12 ounces smoked sausage (sliced into rounds), 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Toss Potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, toss the quartered potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Roast Potatoes: Spread the potatoes on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet and roast for 20 minutes.
- Add Sausage: Remove from the oven, add the sliced sausage on top of the partially roasted potatoes, and return to the oven for another 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender and sausage is browned.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the top and return to the oven for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions if desired and serve hot.
Notes
- For crispier potatoes, broil for the final 2–3 minutes after adding cheese.
- You can substitute turkey sausage or use spicy sausage for added flavor.
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