This Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage dish is the perfect combo of creamy potatoes, melted cheese, and hearty beef smoked sausage a delicious, pork-free twist that still delivers all the classic flavor. If you’re searching for fast dinner recipes, cheap dinner recipes, or smoked sausage recipes that take minimal effort, this one-pan meal is a weeknight hero.
It also fits beautifully into your cheap dinners, fast dinners, and easy sausage recipes rotation. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a hungry family, or just need comfort food fast, this skillet shines. And for readers exploring bold flavors like Pozole Rojo, this dish offers another cozy, flavorful dinner option for your rotation.
table of contents
Creamy, cheesy, comforting and done in under 30 minutes.
Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes/i
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients List
Main Dish
- 1 lb baby potatoes, quartered
- 12 oz beef smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
Optional Add-Ons
- Sour cream
- Crispy bacon substitute: beef bacon if desired
- Jalapeños
- Ranch drizzle
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.
- Large skillet
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl (optional)
Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
- Cook the potatoes
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add quartered potatoes and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Potatoes should be slightly crispy and tender.
- Add beef smoked sausage
- Add sliced beef smoked sausage to the skillet.
- Cook 4–5 minutes until edges become browned and fragrant.
- Season everything
- Sprinkle ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Toss well to coat all potatoes and sausage.
- Add the cheese
- Sprinkle cheddar + mozzarella evenly over the skillet.
- Cover with a lid and cook 2–3 minutes until fully melted.
- Finish & garnish
- Top with green onions, optional jalapeños, or ranch drizzle.
- Serve immediately best enjoyed hot!
Pro Tips
- Crispier potatoes:
Cook uncovered and avoid crowding the pan. - Make it spicy:
Add chili flakes or spicy smoked sausage (beef-based). - Make it a sheet-pan version:
Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes with all ingredients mixed. - Great meal prep:
Stays fresh for 3–4 days and reheats beautifully.
Nutrition Table
(Per 1 plate)
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 plate | 460 | 21g | 34g | 26g | 3g | 4g |
Disclaimer: Nutritional values are estimated and may vary based on ingredient brands, substitutions, preparation methods, and serving size. This recipe is provided for general informational purposes only. Always review ingredient labels for allergens and dietary restrictions.

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add baby potatoes and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fork-tender.
- Add sliced beef smoked sausage to the skillet. Cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly browned.
- Sprinkle in ranch seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat evenly.
- Top with cheddar and mozzarella. Cover with lid and let cheese melt for 2–3 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Conclusion
These Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage are everything a weeknight meal should be — fast, affordable, hearty, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re exploring smoked sausage recipes, building your cheap dinners rotation, or just need delicious comfort food in under 30 minutes, this skillet never disappoints. Save it for busy nights, potlucks, and meal prep!
FAQs
an I use turkey sausage or chicken sausage?
Yes! Any smoked sausage alternative works well.
What potatoes work best?
Baby gold or red potatoes cook fastest and hold texture.
Can I bake instead of skillet-fry?
Yes bake at 400°F for 25–30 minutes.