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Cheesy Ranch Potatoes Sausage

Section: Perfect Side Dishes to Complete Any Meal

This comforting dish features crispy-edged potatoes tossed in creamy ranch dressing, savory sausage, and sweet vegetables, all baked to perfection and topped with melty cheddar cheese. It’s a satisfying all-in-one meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and customizable options like swapping sausage types or cheese varieties, this versatile bake fits any taste. Serve it fresh from the oven with a salad or veggies for a complete and flavorful experience everyone will enjoy.

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Published By Ioana
Updated on Thu, 17 Jul 2025 16:01:57 GMT
A plate of cheesy ranch potatoes and sausage. Bookmark
A plate of cheesy ranch potatoes and sausage. | ioanacooks.com

This creamy one-dish bake delivers everything I love in comfort food quick assembly bold flavors and crowd pleasing texture. With crispy golden potatoes savory sausage tender vegetables and a ranch cheese finish it always hits the spot on busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

I discovered this during a hectic school week when I needed something that could fill up my teens without stress and now it is a family staple everyone requests.

Ingredients

  • Russet potatoes: bring crisp edges and creamy centers choose firm smooth potatoes without green spots
  • Quality sausage: adds hearty protein and deep flavor select one with visible herbs or smoked casing for best results
  • Sharp cheddar cheese: melts into a golden crust grate your own for smoother texture and better melt
  • Ranch dressing: adds herby richness refrigerated brands offer the best flavor and consistency
  • Yellow onion and bell pepper: bring sweetness and color chop evenly for balanced bites
  • Fresh garlic: intensifies savory aroma mince fresh cloves not pre jarred for best results
  • Paprika: offers color and warm depth smoked paprika adds a lovely outdoor note
  • Olive oil: helps roast everything evenly use extra virgin for a rich clean finish
  • Salt and pepper: essential for balancing flavors freshly ground pepper lifts every bite

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Vegetables:
Cube potatoes into even 3/4 inch chunks for uniform roasting. Dice onion and pepper to match potato size. Mince garlic finely for even flavor distribution.
Create the Flavor Base:
Add potatoes sausage onion pepper garlic ranch dressing olive oil paprika salt and pepper to a large bowl. Toss thoroughly to coat every piece evenly.
Layer in the Dish:
Spread the mixture in a single layer in a baking dish. Avoid overcrowding to allow caramelization. Use two dishes if needed for spacing.
Roast to Tenderness:
Bake at 400 degrees uncovered for 25 to 35 minutes until potatoes are golden and fork tender. Check by piercing a large chunk for resistance.
Add Cheese Finish:
Sprinkle grated cheddar evenly over the top. Return to oven for 5 minutes or until cheese melts and browns slightly. For extra crispness broil briefly but watch closely.
Let It Rest:
Allow the dish to sit for 5 minutes before serving so the cheese sets slightly and serving is cleaner.
A plate of cheesy potatoes with sausage. Bookmark
A plate of cheesy potatoes with sausage. | ioanacooks.com

I love how smoked paprika transforms the dish with just a pinch. The first time I tried it my husband said it tasted like something from a wood fired oven. Now we never skip it.

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees covered with foil or in the microwave in short bursts. You can freeze portions in containers for up to three months and thaw overnight in the fridge.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a touch of sweetness or cauliflower for a low carb version. Turkey sausage or vegetarian sausage links work beautifully too. Pepper jack cheese adds a mild kick and smoked gouda deepens flavor.

A plate of cheesy ranch potatoes and sausage. Bookmark
A plate of cheesy ranch potatoes and sausage. | ioanacooks.com

Serving Suggestions

This hearty bake is satisfying on its own but pairs well with a crisp green salad for contrast. Top with a fried egg for brunch or serve with roasted broccoli or brussels sprouts for a balanced plate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, try mozzarella, pepper jack, or smoked gouda for a flavor twist. Cream cheese also adds creaminess.

→ Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, assemble everything in the dish, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Yes, use plant-based sausage and swap in cauliflower or sweet potatoes for variety.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge up to 4 days. Reheat in microwave or oven for best texture.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, portion and freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in fridge before reheating.

→ What sides pair well with it?

Serve with a crisp green salad, steamed broccoli, or top with a fried egg for brunch.

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes Sausage

Hearty one-pan dish with creamy ranch potatoes, sausage, and golden cheese topping.

Time Needed to Prep
15 minutes
Cooking Duration
35 minutes
Overall Time
50 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Side Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Easy to Make

Type of Cuisine: American

Number of Portions: 6 How Many It Serves (One 9x13 inch baking dish)

Dietary Preferences: ~

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Main Ingredients

Ingredient 01 4 large russet potatoes, cubed into 3/4 inch pieces
Ingredient 02 12 ounces quality sausage, sliced
Ingredient 03 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
Ingredient 04 1/2 cup refrigerated ranch dressing
Ingredient 05 1 medium yellow onion, diced
Ingredient 06 1 medium bell pepper, diced
Ingredient 07 3 garlic cloves, minced
Ingredient 08 1 teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked)
Ingredient 09 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Ingredient 10 Salt, to taste
Ingredient 11 Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Cut potatoes into uniform 3/4 inch cubes. Dice onion and bell pepper to similar size. Mince garlic finely.

Step 02

In a large bowl, combine potatoes, sausage, onion, bell pepper, garlic, ranch dressing, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

Step 03

Spread mixture in a single layer in a baking dish. Avoid overcrowding. Use two dishes if necessary.

Step 04

Bake uncovered at 400°F for 25–35 minutes until potatoes are fork tender and edges are lightly caramelized.

Step 05

Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese over the top. Return to oven for 5 minutes or until cheese is fully melted and golden.

Step 06

For a crispier top, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.

Step 07

Let dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow cheese to set slightly.

Extra Tips

  1. Add cheese at the end to prevent burning and ensure a perfect melt.
  2. The dish improves in flavor when made ahead and reheated.
  3. Smoked paprika enhances depth and adds a subtle campfire flavor.
  4. For meal prep, assemble ahead and bake when ready.
  5. Customize with different sausages or cheeses for variety.

Tools You'll Need

  • Cutting board
  • Chef’s knife
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Oven

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains dairy (cheddar cheese, ranch dressing)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 410
  • Total Fat: 25 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 32 grams
  • Protein Amount: 15 grams