Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a hearty, comforting dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. With crispy potatoes, savory smoked sausage, melted cheese, and zesty ranch seasoning, it’s the perfect one-pan meal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Each bite delivers a satisfying blend of textures and bold, cheesy goodness.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

russet potatoes
smoked sausage (sliced into rounds)
shredded cheddar cheese
ranch seasoning mix
olive oil
salt
black pepper
chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish or sheet pan.

Wash and dice the potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Place them in a large bowl.

Add olive oil, ranch seasoning mix, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Toss until evenly coated.

Transfer the seasoned potatoes to the baking dish and bake for 25 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pan, mixing it with the partially baked potatoes.

Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and tender, and the sausage is browned.

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top and return to the oven for 5 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 60-65 minutes

Variations

Swap cheddar with pepper jack or mozzarella for a different cheese flavor.
Add chopped bell peppers or onions for extra texture and sweetness.
Top with crumbled bacon before serving for an extra savory kick.
Use sweet potatoes instead of russet for a sweeter, healthier twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
To freeze, cool completely and transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, kielbasa, turkey sausage, or andouille all work well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prep everything the night before and bake when ready to serve.

Is ranch seasoning very salty?
It can be—adjust additional salt in the recipe accordingly.

Can I make this in a skillet?
Yes, use an oven-safe skillet or cook entirely on the stovetop until the potatoes are tender.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional—leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese and a homemade ranch mix without dairy ingredients.

What kind of cheese melts best for this dish?
Cheddar melts beautifully and adds sharp flavor, but Monterey Jack is also a great option.

Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely—zucchini, broccoli, or mushrooms are great additions.

How do I keep potatoes from sticking?
Make sure they’re well-coated in oil and use parchment paper or a non-stick pan.

Can I grill this instead of baking?
Yes, wrap ingredients in foil packets and grill over medium heat for about 30-35 minutes.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe full of comforting flavors. With minimal prep and big taste, it’s a reliable go-to for weeknight dinners or potluck contributions. Customizable and satisfying, it’s bound to become a family favorite.