Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizes common pantry staples, making it easy to prepare without special shopping trips.
- Flavorful Combination: The smoky sausage pairs perfectly with the creamy, cheesy potatoes, enhanced by the tangy ranch seasoning.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for potlucks or family meals, this dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be assembled in advance and baked when ready, saving time on busy days.
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, thinly sliced
- 2 lbs potatoes, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the sliced sausage until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix the diced potatoes, cooked sausage, sautéed onions and garlic, shredded cheese, ranch dressing mix, milk, and melted butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions just before serving. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
- Preparation Time: About 20 minutes.
- Cooking Time: Approximately 75 minutes (including baking time).
Variations
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute smoked sausage with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or a cheese blend to add a unique twist.
- Vegetable Additions: Incorporate vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli florets, or mushrooms to enhance the nutritional value and add more texture.
- Spice Level: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave until warmed through. For larger portions, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated thoroughly.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy content, which provides a fluffy texture when baked.
Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Yes, using pre-cooked sausage can save time. Simply slice and brown them slightly for added flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Opt for turkey or chicken sausage, reduce the amount of cheese, and add more vegetables to increase the nutritional value.
Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?
Yes, homemade ranch seasoning can be used in place of a store-bought packet.
What other cheeses can I use?
Cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or Gouda can be used to vary the flavor.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming too greasy?
Use leaner sausage options and consider reducing the amount of butter used in the recipe.
Can I add herbs to this dish?
Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives can be added for extra flavor.
What should I serve alongside this casserole?
A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables complement this hearty dish well.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
The casserole is done when the potatoes are tender, and the top is golden brown. A fork should easily pierce through the potatoes.
Conclusion
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes with Smoked Sausage is a versatile and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients make it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes with Smoked Sausage
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Total Time: 95 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole, Dinner, Comfort Food
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes with Smoked Sausage is a comforting, easy-to-make casserole featuring tender potatoes, smoky sausage, and a creamy ranch-infused cheese sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or make-ahead meals. With simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, thinly sliced
- 2 lbs potatoes, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Sausage: Brown the smoked sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté diced onions and minced garlic until translucent.
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, toss together potatoes, cooked sausage, onions, garlic, cheese, ranch dressing mix, milk, and melted butter. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 60 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve warm.
Notes
- Best Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for the best texture.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Microwave individual portions or reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
