Introduction
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is the ultimate comfort food dish, combining tender potatoes, savory smoked sausage, and the rich flavors of ranch seasoning and cheddar cheese. This hearty, one-pan meal is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve up something delicious and satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Monon Meats smoked sausage, sliced: Provides a smoky, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes.
- 2 lbs potatoes, cubed: The heart of the dish, these potatoes absorb all the flavors and become tender and delicious.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds a rich, cheesy layer to the dish, making it irresistibly creamy.
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix: Infuses the dish with tangy, herby ranch flavor that complements the sausage and potatoes.
- 1/2 cup milk: Helps create a creamy sauce that coats the potatoes and sausage.
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
- 1 onion, diced: Brings sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a touch of aromatic flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the richness of the cheese and sausage.
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped for garnish: Adds a fresh, colorful finish to the dish.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set the Oven to 375°F (190°C): Preheat your oven to ensure it’s hot and ready when your dish is assembled.
Step 2: Prepare the Sausage and Onions
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage slices until they’re browned on all sides. This step brings out the smoky flavor of the sausage. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook them until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant. This will create a flavorful base for the dish.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
- Mix Everything Together: In a large bowl, combine the cubed potatoes, browned sausage, cooked onion-garlic mixture, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing mix, milk, and melted butter. Stir everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated with the mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Bake the Dish
- Transfer to a Baking Dish: Grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking, then transfer the potato and sausage mixture into the dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes. This allows the potatoes to become tender while soaking up all the flavors.
- Finish Baking Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender. This step gives the dish a nice, crispy finish.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Add Green Onions: Once the dish is out of the oven, garnish it with chopped green onions. They add a fresh, bright flavor that complements the rich, cheesy potatoes.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving: Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a complete meal on its own, but you can also serve it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to impress with minimal effort.
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick and easy meal.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the potato mixture for a spicy twist.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the smoked sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it entirely and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Extra Cheesy: For cheese lovers, increase the amount of cheddar cheese or mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use any type of potatoes for this recipe. Russet potatoes will give you a fluffier texture, while Yukon Gold or red potatoes will be creamier.
2. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.
3. Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook this dish in a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the potatoes are tender.
4. How do I make this dish gluten-free?
Ensure that the ranch dressing mix you use is gluten-free. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy dish to adapt.
