Description
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a hearty, flavor-packed comfort food made with tender potatoes, savory smoked sausage, and a creamy ranch-seasoned cheese sauce. This easy one-pan meal is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or casual gatherings. Simple ingredients come together to create a satisfying dish that’s both filling and crowd-pleasing.
Origin of the Recipe
Potato and sausage dishes have long been a staple in American home cooking, valued for their affordability and versatility. As ranch seasoning became a popular pantry ingredient, home cooks began combining it with classic potato casseroles to add bold, tangy flavor. The addition of cheese transformed this simple combination into a rich, comforting meal that fits perfectly into modern family cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs potatoes, diced (Yukon gold or russet)
- 14 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board and knife
- Spoon or spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking, or heat a large skillet over medium heat if cooking on the stovetop.
- Cook the diced potatoes in boiling salted water for 8–10 minutes until just tender. Drain well.
- In a large skillet, sauté the smoked sausage in olive oil until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- Add garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in cream, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Fold in the cooked potatoes and sausage until evenly coated.
- Transfer to a baking dish if using the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or cook in the skillet until heated through and bubbly.
- Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Best Results
- Use smoked sausage for deeper flavor; kielbasa works well.
- Do not overcook the potatoes before baking to maintain texture.
- For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or skillet until warmed through. Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete and balanced meal.
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is an easy, comforting dish that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Whether served for dinner or shared at a gathering, this recipe is sure to become a regular favorite.
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking, or heat a large skillet over medium heat for stovetop cooking.
- Cook the diced potatoes in boiling salted water for 8–10 minutes until just tender. Drain well.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter and sauté the smoked sausage until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- Add garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the cream, ranch seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add the cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Fold in the cooked potatoes and sausage until evenly coated in the sauce.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, or cook in the skillet until heated through and bubbly.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish if desired.
Notes