1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Potatoes
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. You can line the baking sheet with aluminum foil for easier cleanup if desired.
- Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender and starting to crisp around the edges. Stir halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
3. Cook the Smoked Sausage
- While the potatoes are baking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and heated through.
- Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Cheesy Ranch Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the sour cream and milk. Stir to combine.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
5. Combine and Bake
- Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and add them to the skillet with the cheesy ranch sauce. Stir to coat the potatoes evenly with the sauce.
- Add the cooked smoked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or leave it in the skillet if it is oven-safe.
- Sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top if desired.
- Bake in the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
- Even Sizing: Cut the potatoes into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Crispy Potatoes: Bake the potatoes until they are crispy around the edges for the best texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, especially if using different brands of ranch seasoning mix or cheese.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the dish for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Additions: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or corn for added nutrition and flavor.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack, gouda, or Swiss for a unique twist.
Conclusion
Cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender potatoes, smoky sausage, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Key Takeaway
The secret to perfect cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage lies in the combination of well-seasoned potatoes, smoky sausage, and a creamy cheese sauce. By following this guide, you’ll create a delicious and satisfying meal every time.
We hope you found this guide helpful and inspiring. Enjoy your cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage!