There’s something magical about recipes that use simple, inexpensive ingredients but deliver huge flavor. This Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage dish is one of those cozy comfort meals that feels like a hug in a bowl. With golden potatoes, smoky sausage, creamy ranch seasoning, and lots of melted cheese, it’s hearty enough for dinner yet quick and easy to make.
If you’re searching for fast dinner recipes, cheap dinners, or easy casserole recipes, this recipe should go straight to the top of your list. It’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and so satisfying that everyone will ask for seconds.
Why This Recipe Works
- Simple Ingredients: Potatoes, smoked sausage, cheese, and ranch seasoning — all pantry staples.
- Quick Prep: Just slice, season, and bake. Dinner is on the table in less than an hour.
- Versatile: Works as a casserole, skillet bake, or even in a slow cooker.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or game night.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 14 oz smoked sausage, sliced into coins
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese (optional for extra melt)
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Wash and halve the baby potatoes. Place them in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with ranch seasoning, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
Step 2: Add the Smoked Sausage
Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized rounds and add them to the bowl with the seasoned potatoes. Mix everything together so the flavors blend.
Step 3: Bake
Spread the mixture evenly in a greased 9×13 baking dish. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the potatoes are tender and golden.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella (if using) over the top. Return the dish to the oven for 5–7 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and irresistible.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm straight from the dish.
Tips & Variations
- Casserole Style: Prepare everything in advance and bake later. This makes it a perfect easy casserole recipe.
- Spice It Up: Use andouille sausage or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Add Veggies: Bell peppers, onions, or broccoli work well with the cheesy ranch flavor.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a spoonful of sour cream or ranch dressing right before serving.
- Slow Cooker Version: Combine potatoes, sausage, and seasoning in the crockpot. Cook on low 6 hours or high 3–4, then stir in cheese before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is hearty enough to serve as a main course, but it also pairs beautifully with sides:
- A fresh green salad for balance.
- Garlic bread for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
- Roasted veggies for extra nutrition.
It’s also perfect for meal prep. Leftovers reheat easily in the microwave or oven and taste just as good the next day.
Recipe Inspiration
This recipe brings together two comfort food classics — cheesy potatoes and smoked sausage. Smoked sausage recipes are always a hit because of their bold flavor and ease of cooking. Pairing them with ranch potatoes creates a creamy, tangy base that’s simply irresistible.
If you’re craving more hearty comfort food, you’ll also enjoy my Easy White Chicken Chili — a 25-minute one-pot dinner packed with flavor. Or try my Cream Cheese Chicken Chili for a creamy slow cooker twist. And if you love potato sides, don’t miss these buttery Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes that pair perfectly with almost any main dish.
FAQ
Can I use different sausage?
Yes. Kielbasa, turkey sausage, or andouille sausage all work well in this recipe.
Do I need to parboil the potatoes first?
Nope. Baking at a high temperature ensures the potatoes cook through and get golden brown.
Can I make this recipe ahead?
Yes! Assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven covered with foil.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, but for best texture, freeze after baking without the cheese topping. Add cheese when reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage recipe is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: cheesy, hearty, flavorful, and budget-friendly. Whether you call it an easy casserole recipe, a fast dinner recipe, or a cheap dinner recipe, it’s one you’ll turn to again and again.
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 14 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss halved potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add sliced smoked sausage and mix well.
- Spread mixture in a greased baking dish and bake 35–40 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Sprinkle with cheese and return to oven until melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
