Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage Bake

Introduction

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage is a dish that perfectly marries comfort food with crowd-pleasing flavors. The combination of tender potatoes, savory sausage, and rich cheese creates a hearty meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. With minimal prep and a short baking time, you can have a delicious, cheesy casserole ready to serve in no time. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
• 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions & Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved baby potatoes and sliced smoked sausage.
3. Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper over the potatoes and sausage. Toss everything together until evenly coated with the spices.
4. Pour the ranch dressing into the bowl and mix until the potatoes and sausage are well coated.
5. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
7. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top.
8. Return the dish to the oven (uncovered) and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

FAQs

What if my potatoes are not cooking through?

Ensure that the potatoes are halved evenly and check their doneness by piercing them with a fork. If they’re still firm, cover and bake a bit longer.

Can I use chicken sausage instead of smoked sausage?

Yes, chicken sausage works well and will still provide a flavorful dish.

What should I do if my cheese doesn't melt properly?

Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed on top and return the dish to the oven for a few more minutes until melted.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the potato and sausage mixture before baking.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, or broccoli can add more nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into small pieces and mix them in.

What if my ranch dressing is too thick?

If your ranch dressing is too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of milk or buttermilk before mixing it with the potatoes and sausage.

Can I scale this recipe for a larger gathering?

Yes, you can easily double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish to accommodate more servings.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful blend of flavors that warms the heart and satisfies the appetite. Whether served as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to impress your family and friends.

With its simple preparation and delicious outcome, this recipe is destined to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the cheesy goodness and the smiles it brings around the dinner table!

Recipe Card

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes with Sausage Delight

Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Sausage with clear steps, pantry staples, and flexible swaps.

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds baby potatoes halved
• 1 pound smoked sausage sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a large baking dish with a little olive oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the halved baby potatoes, sliced smoked sausage, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Toss everything until the potatoes and sausage are evenly coated.
3. Transfer the potato and sausage mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. After 30 minutes, remove the baking dish from the oven and drizzle the ranch dressing over the top. Gently toss to combine.
6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potato and sausage mixture, returning it to the oven.
7. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. The potatoes should be fork-tender at this point.
8. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.

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