Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage Skillet – Crispy, Creamy, & Packed with Flavor!
Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make, incredibly satisfying, and full of smoky, cheesy goodness? This Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage skillet is a one-pan wonder perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings. With roasted baby potatoes, golden-brown smoked sausage, ranch seasoning, and melted cheese, it’s a dish everyone will crave again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Magic: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
- Bold Ranch Flavor: The seasoning coats the potatoes perfectly, adding that signature tang.
- Cheesy & Satisfying: Gooey melted cheese takes it to another level.
- Kid-Friendly & Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for picky eaters and big gatherings.
- Quick Prep: Just chop, toss, roast, and bake!
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into ½-inch rounds
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, washed and quartered
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese mix)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a large oven-safe skillet or baking dish.
2. Prepare the Potatoes
In a large bowl, toss the quartered baby potatoes with olive oil and the ranch seasoning mix until evenly coated. Make sure every piece is well-seasoned for maximum flavor.
3. Add the Sausage
Add the smoked sausage slices to the bowl and stir to combine. The sausage will release flavor as it roasts, coating the potatoes in smoky, savory juices.
4. Roast Everything Together
Spread the sausage and potatoes evenly in the skillet or baking dish. Roast uncovered in the oven for 35–40 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the potatoes are fork-tender and slightly crispy around the edges.
5. Add the Cheese
Once everything is roasted and golden, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the skillet to the oven and bake for another 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove from oven, let cool slightly, then garnish with chopped parsley. Serve with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
Tips & Variations
- Want it spicier? Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper before roasting.
- Make it a full meal: Add chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the skillet for extra veggies.
- Switch up the cheese: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or a smoky gouda for different flavor twists.
- Use leftover sausage or hot dogs: Perfect way to repurpose what’s already in your fridge!
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with:
- A crisp green salad
- Garlic bread or Texas toast
- Roasted broccoli or asparagus
- A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Use a skillet on low heat or microwave in short bursts to preserve the texture.
- Freezer: Can be frozen before adding cheese—just roast again and add cheese when ready to serve.