Craving a hearty, delicious, and surprisingly easy meal? Look no further! This cheesy ranch potatoes and sausage recipe is the perfect answer for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend dinner. It's a comforting classic elevated with simple yet flavorful ingredients, making it a surefire hit with the whole family. Get ready to experience the ultimate combination of savory sausage, fluffy potatoes, and creamy ranch dressing – all baked to golden perfection. This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can create with homemade cooking, and it's one of the best recipes for a quick dinner idea.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 lb sausage (Italian, chorizo, or your favorite!), casings removed
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
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Prep the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain well and set aside. This is a key step to ensuring perfectly cooked potatoes.
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Brown the Sausage: While the potatoes are boiling, brown the sausage in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. This adds depth of flavor to the entire dish.
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Create the Ranch Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, sour cream, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This creamy base will bring everything together beautifully.
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Combine and Bake: Add the cooked potatoes and browned sausage to the skillet. Pour the ranch sauce over the mixture, stirring gently to combine. Evenly distribute the cheddar and Parmesan cheese over the top.
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Bake to Perfection: Dot the top with butter. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and bubbly, and the cheese is melted and slightly browned.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Potato Choice: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their fluffy texture.
- Sausage Variety: Feel free to experiment with different sausage types to customize the flavor profile. Spicy chorizo would be a delicious alternative!
- Cheese Options: Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses would also be great additions.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Make sure your skillet isn't overcrowded to ensure even cooking and browning of the potatoes and sausage. If necessary, use two skillets.
Variations:
- Add Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like chopped onions, bell peppers, or broccoli for a healthier and more vibrant dish.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ranch sauce for a kick.
- Make it a Complete Meal: Serve with a side salad or some crusty bread for a more substantial meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate for one serving is approximately:
- Calories: 400-500
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-40g
This cheesy ranch potatoes and sausage recipe is a perfect example of easy recipes that are both delicious and satisfying. It's a simple yet impressive dish that's ideal for busy weeknights and family gatherings. This healthy meal option is easily adaptable to your preferences and dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!