Name: Cheesy Ranch Sausage & Potato Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 450 g smoked sausage (beef, turkey, or halal variety); 4 cups baby potatoes, halved or quartered; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 packet ranch seasoning mix; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; ½ tsp black pepper; 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your cheese blend); ½ cup sour cream (optional, for serving); Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Cheesy Ranch Sausage & Potato Bake a comforting one-pan wonder that brings together roasted baby potatoes, smoky sausage, and a generous layer of melted cheese, all wrapped in the zesty punch of ranch seasoning. This is a hearty, savory, and ultra-satisfying dish I keep coming back to — especially when I need something quick, filling, and sure to impress the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how incredibly easy this meal is to pull together with just a handful of pantry staples. Everything roasts on one pan, which means minimal cleanup. The combination of crispy-edged potatoes, juicy sausage, and gooey cheese hits every comfort food craving I have. The ranch seasoning ties everything together with bold flavor, and I can tweak the protein or spice level to suit whoever I’m feeding that night. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this dish never lets me down.

Ingredients

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

450 g smoked sausage (beef, turkey, or halal variety)

4 cups baby potatoes, halved or quartered

1 packet ranch seasoning mix

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

½ tsp black pepper

1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your cheese blend)

½ cup sour cream (optional, for serving)

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I start by preheating my oven to 200 °C (400 °F).

I wash and cut the baby potatoes into halves or quarters so they roast evenly.

Then I slice the sausage into 0.5 cm rounds — not too thick, so they crisp up a bit in the oven.

In a small bowl, I mix together the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.

I toss the potatoes in a large bowl with olive oil and half the seasoning mixture until every piece is coated.

I line a baking sheet with parchment or grease it lightly, then spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer.

Next I scatter the sausage slices over the potatoes and slide the tray into the oven.

I roast for 35–40 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the potatoes are golden and fork-tender.

Then I remove the tray, sprinkle shredded cheese generously on top, and return it to the oven for 5 minutes — just until the cheese melts and bubbles.

I garnish with parsley and serve immediately, with a dollop of sour cream on the side if I want an extra creamy finish.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 60 minutes

Servings: 6 to 8

Calories: ~430 kcal per serving (estimate)

Variations

I like switching things up depending on what I have. Sometimes I use spicy andouille sausage for a kick, or swap the cheddar with pepper jack for extra heat. Red potatoes or Yukon Golds also work well here. For a veggie boost, I add bell peppers or broccoli halfway through the roasting time. And if I’m craving something creamier, I stir in a spoonful of sour cream or a drizzle of ranch dressing right before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat them in the oven at 180 °C (350 °F) until warmed through — it keeps the potatoes crisp. The microwave works too for speed, though the potatoes may lose a bit of their texture. I avoid freezing this dish, since the potatoes and cheese can become grainy after thawing.

Related Recipes:

Crockpot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes

FAQs

How do I make this dish spicier?

I add crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix or use a spicy sausage like chorizo or andouille. Pepper jack cheese is another good way to bring the heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I prep everything up to the point of roasting, then cover and refrigerate the tray. When I’m ready to cook, I just pop it into the oven as directed.

What’s a good substitute for ranch seasoning?

If I’m out of ranch mix, I combine dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of salt for a similar flavor.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

I prefer fresh baby potatoes for the best texture, but frozen diced potatoes can work in a pinch. I make sure they’re thawed and patted dry before roasting.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! I check that my sausage and ranch seasoning are certified gluten-free — some packaged products may contain hidden gluten.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ranch Sausage & Potato Bake is the kind of easy, satisfying dinner I crave after a long day. It’s full of flavor, comes together in one pan, and feeds a crowd without breaking a sweat. Whether I serve it up for a casual weeknight or bring it to a potluck, it always earns a spot in my comfort food hall of fame.

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