Indulge in the comforting flavors of our Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage dish! This hearty and satisfying recipe combines tender potatoes, savory smoked sausage, and gooey cheddar cheese, all seasoned with zesty ranch dressing mix for a flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, this dish is sure to be a hit. Join us as we explore the ingredients, instructions, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions of this delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Monon Meats 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 and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Cook the Sausage and Potatoes:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced smoked sausage until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced potatoes and cook until they start to brown and become tender, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Prepare the Ranch Mixture:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing mix, milk, melted butter, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Place half of the cooked potatoes in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cooked smoked sausage over the potatoes, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour half of the ranch mixture over the cheese layer.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, sausage, cheese, and ranch mixture.
- Bake and Garnish:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the smoked sausage and add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli for a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Spice it Up: Add a kick of heat by incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the potato and sausage mixture.
- Creamy Variation: For an extra creamy texture, mix in 1/2 cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the ranch mixture before layering it over the potatoes and sausage.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Substitute the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative. Use a keto-friendly ranch dressing mix and ensure the sausage is free from added sugars.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the keto substitutions mentioned above and adjust the quantities of ingredients to fit your low-carb macros. Opt for full-fat dairy products and check the labels for hidden sugars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of sausage? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of sausage such as kielbasa, Andouille, or chorizo for a unique flavor twist.
Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Allow the dish to come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.
Q: Can I customize the toppings? A: Absolutely! Get creative with your toppings by adding crispy bacon bits, sliced jalapeños, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.
Treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food experience with our Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage dish. With its delicious combination of tender potatoes, savory smoked sausage, and creamy cheese, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. Whether you’re enjoying it for dinner with the family or serving it at your next gathering, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So, fire up the oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavors of this hearty and flavorful dish!
