One-Pan Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage: Easy Comfort Dinner

1. Introduction

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

As the pleasant evenings of late May continue to grace Ouarzazate, the appeal of a simple, satisfying, and easy-to-clean-up dinner remains strong. Today, we’re bringing you just that with our recipe for One-Pan Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage. This dish is a delightful combination of hearty diced potatoes, flavorful Italian sausage, aromatic onions, and the zesty tang of ranch seasoning, all baked to perfection on a single sheet pan and topped with melty cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. It’s the epitome of a comforting weeknight meal with minimal fuss.

This recipe is all about ease and delicious flavor. The potatoes become tender and slightly crispy, the Italian sausage adds a savory depth, and the ranch seasoning brings a unique and appealing twist. The melted cheeses on top create a gooey, irresistible finish. If you appreciate the simplicity of one-pan meals, much like our Easy Chicken and Rice Bowls with Creamy Garlic Sauce (though different in flavor profile), you’ll find this Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage to be a winner for both taste and convenience. Let’s get this easy and comforting dinner in the oven!

2. Recipe Summary

• Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
• Difficulty level: Very Easy
• Total preparation and cooking time: 50 minutes
• Dietary classification: May not be gluten-free (check ranch dressing mix ingredients).

3. Equipment and Utensils

• Large mixing bowl
• Large baking sheet (sheet pan)
• Spatula or spoon for tossing

4. Serving Suggestions

• Plating: Serve hot directly from the baking sheet or portion onto plates. The colorful mix of potatoes, sausage, and melted cheese is appealing on its own.
• Side Dish Ideas: A simple green salad or steamed vegetables would complement this hearty dish.
• Complementary Side Dishes: Consider a side of our Fresh Black Bean and Corn Salad Recipe for a fresh contrast.
• Wine or Beverage Pairings: A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir. For non-alcoholic options, try a refreshing iced tea or lemonade.

5. Nutritional Information

• Detailed Nutritional Breakdown (per serving, estimated):
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
  • Protein: Approximately 20-25g
  • Fat: Approximately 25-30g
• Macronutrient Distribution: Roughly 30% Carbohydrates, 20% Protein, 50% Fat.
• Dietary Information: May not be gluten-free (depending on ranch mix). Contains dairy.
• Potential Health Benefits: Potatoes provide potassium. Onions contain antioxidants.

6. Storage and Reheating

• Proper Storage Instructions: Allow the potato and sausage mixture to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Refrigeration Instructions: Keep refrigerated at or below 40°F (4°C).
• Freezing Recommendations: This dish can be frozen, although the texture of the potatoes might change slightly upon thawing, becoming a bit softer. Allow to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating Methods:
  • Oven: Spread the mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet and reheat at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
  • Skillet: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
  • Microwave: Reheat individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 1-2 minutes until hot.

7. Expert Tips and Variations

• Tips from Professional Chefs: For crispier potatoes, ensure they are spread in a single layer on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding. Tossing the vegetables and sausage well with olive oil helps them roast evenly.
• Common Mistakes to Avoid: Not cutting the potatoes into uniform sizes, which can lead to uneven cooking; adding the cheese too early, which can cause it to burn.
• Creative Recipe Variations:
  • Vegetables: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli florets, or mushrooms to the pan. Adjust cooking times as needed.
  • Sausage: You can use different types of sausage, such as chicken or spicy Italian, for a varied flavor.
  • Cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend.
  • Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Seasonal Adaptations: This hearty dish is great year-round. You could add seasonal vegetables like asparagus in the spring or Brussels sprouts in the fall.

8. Ingredients Section

• 1 kg potatoes, diced into 1-inch pieces (approximately 2.2 lbs)
  • Quality and Sourcing Recommendations: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well.
  • Preparation Notes: Ensure uniform size for even cooking.
• 1 kg Italian sausages, sliced into rounds (approximately 2.2 lbs)
  • Quality and Sourcing Recommendations: Use your favorite type of Italian sausage (sweet, mild, or hot).
  • Preparation Notes: Slice into about 1/2-inch thick rounds.
• 1 medium onion, chopped
  • Sourcing: Yellow or white onion.
  • Preparation Notes: Roughly chop.
• 1 packet (approximately 1 oz or 28g) ranch dressing mix
  • Sourcing: Condiment aisle.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (approximately 110g)
  • Sourcing: Dairy aisle.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (approximately 50g)
  • Sourcing: Dairy aisle.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (approximately 30 ml)
  • Quality and Sourcing Recommendations: Extra virgin olive oil is recommended.
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Metric Conversions (Approximate):

• 1 kg potatoes ≈ 2.2 lbs
• 1 kg Italian sausages ≈ 2.2 lbs
• 1 medium onion ≈ 150g
• 28g ranch dressing mix ≈ 1 oz
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese ≈ 110g
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese ≈ 50g
• 2 tablespoons olive oil ≈ 30 ml

9. Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Toss Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the diced potatoes, sliced Italian sausages, chopped onion, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat everything evenly.
3. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the mixture in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking.
5. Add Ranch and Cheese: Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the potatoes and sausages.
6. Continue Baking: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown.
7. Serve: Serve hot directly from the baking sheet.

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10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)