Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 35–40 minutes

• Total Time: 50–55 minutes

• Servings: 4–6

• Intensity Level: Easy (Minimal chopping, one-pan cooking)

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Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) smoked sausage (or kielbasa), sliced into ½-inch rounds

• 1.5 lbs (about 4-5 medium) Yukon Gold or red potatoes, diced into ½-inch cubes (no need to peel)

• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided

• 1 (1 oz) packet ranch dressing and seasoning mix

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ¼ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a hint of smokiness)

• ½ cup yellow onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

• ¼ cup sour cream

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prep and Par-Cook the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the diced potatoes in a large microwave-safe bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of water, cover with a plate or microwave-safe lid, and microwave on high for 5-7 minutes, until the potatoes are just starting to become tender. Carefully drain any excess water. This crucial step jumpstarts the cooking process, ensuring your potatoes get perfectly tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, rather than just steaming in the oven.

2. Season the Potatoes

To the bowl with the par-cooked potatoes, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of the ranch seasoning mix, the garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), and a good pinch of black pepper. Toss well to ensure all the potato cubes are evenly coated.

3. Sear the Sausage and Potatoes

Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large (12-inch) oven-safe skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is nicely browned on the edges. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon, leaving the rendered fat in the pan, and set aside on a plate.

Add the seasoned potatoes to the same skillet in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes to develop a golden-brown crust. Then, stir and cook for another 4-5 minutes until they are crispy on multiple sides. The potatoes won’t be fully cooked through yet, but they should have a good sear.

4. Sauté Aromatics and Combine

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion to the skillet with the potatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Add the remaining ranch seasoning mix and the sour cream. Stir everything together until the sour cream melts and coats the potatoes and sausage in a light, creamy layer. Remove the skillet from the heat.

5. Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the mixture. Dot the surface with the small pieces of butter—this will add richness and help create a luscious, golden top. Place the skillet (uncovered) in the preheated oven.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is completely melted, bubbly, and just beginning to brown at the edges, and the potatoes are fork-tender.

6. Rest and Serve

Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top and let it sit for 5 minutes. The residual heat will melt it into a beautiful, gooey finish. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives. Serve warm, directly from the skillet.

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Tips for Success

• Potato Choice: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe. They have a naturally buttery flavor and a creamy texture that holds up well to roasting. Red potatoes are a great second choice.

• Make it Spicy: For a kick of heat, use spicy smoked sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic.

• Vegetable Add-Ins: Feel free to add a cup of broccoli florets or sliced bell peppers to the skillet along with the onions for a boost of color and nutrients.

• Making it Ahead: You can par-cook the potatoes and brown the sausage a day in advance. When ready to cook, simply combine all ingredients in the skillet and proceed with the baking instructions, adding 5-10 minutes to the oven time since you’ll be starting with cold ingredients.

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Nutrition

Nutrition information is an estimate per serving (based on 6 servings) and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

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Enjoy your Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage—a simple, satisfying meal that proves the best dinners are often made in just one pan!