Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the delightful combination of creamy, cheesy potatoes and savory smoked sausage in this easy Crockpot recipe. Perfectly seasoned with ranch dressing mix, this comforting dish is ideal for family dinners or potlucks, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort. Simply toss your ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you enjoy more time with loved ones.
This dish brings together the goodness of potatoes and smoked sausage with a creamy ranch dressing flavor that comforts the soul.
A Comforting Family Favorite
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a dish that brings families together around the dinner table. It’s an uncomplicated yet satisfying meal that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. The creamy texture of the potatoes combined with the smoky flavor of the sausage delivers a comforting experience that warms the soul. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means fewer dishes to worry about after enjoying a delicious dinner!
The use of baby potatoes means you get the buttery goodness without the hassle of peeling. Their tender skin adds a delightful texture, enhancing the overall appeal of the dish. Meanwhile, the ranch dressing mix infuses everything with a zesty flavor profile that elevates this comfort food to something extraordinary. When served, this dish promises smiles and contentment around the table.
Effortless Meal Prep
One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can prepare a hearty meal in no time. Tossing everything into the slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, allowing you to engage in family activities or relax while dinner cooks itself. This effortless meal prep is a game-changer for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
Moreover, the slow cooking method enhances on the flavors, allowing them to meld beautifully. The lengthy cooking time transforms the cream cheese and cheddar into a creamy sauce while the potatoes become tender and flavorful. The richness of the cheese and the spices in the ranch dressing will tantalize your taste buds, making each bite a delightful experience.
Perfect for Gatherings
Whether you're hosting a casual gathering or attending a potluck, Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a dish that fits the occasion elegantly. It can easily be scaled up to serve a crowd, making it an ideal choice for entertaining. Everyone loves comfort food, and this dish stands out with its flavor and heartiness, ensuring your guests leave satisfied.
Additionally, the recipe can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. If someone in your group has a dietary restriction, you can easily substitute ingredients for alternatives, such as turkey sausage or a vegan cheese replacement. This versatility makes it a reliable choice for any gathering, allowing everyone to partake in the feast and enjoy the evening.
Ingredients
Gather all the necessary ingredients to create this delicious dish.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of baby potatoes, halved
- 1 pound of smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 packet of ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of cream cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup of chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Your ingredients are ready! Now let’s move on to the steps.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage.
Prepare the Ingredients
In a slow cooker, combine the halved baby potatoes and sliced smoked sausage.
Add Seasoning and Broth
Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix over the top. Pour in the chicken broth.
Add Cream Cheese
Add the cubed cream cheese on top of the mixture.
Cooking the Dish
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until potatoes are tender.
Finishing Touches
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Your dish is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm and savor every bite.
Tips for the Best Results
For the best flavor, you can marinate the smoked sausage in some of the ranch dressing before adding it to the slow cooker. This extra step ensures that every bit absorbs the tangy goodness of the ranch mix. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like pepper jack for a bit of heat or mozzarella for an ooey-gooey twist.
Using fresh herbs can enhance the flavor further. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley before serving. It not only adds flavor but also brings a fresh pop of color to the dish, making it even more appetizing and visually appealing.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing this dish with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread can elevate your meal to the next level. The crunch of a simple salad can balance out the creamy elements of the Cheesy Ranch Potatoes, while the bread is perfect for scooping up every delightful morsel from your plate.
For an even heartier meal, consider serving it with grilled vegetables or corn on the cob during the summer months. The smoky, grilled flavors will complement the richness of the dish beautifully, creating a satisfying feast that everyone will enjoy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, feel free to use any smoked sausage or kielbasa that you prefer.
→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and refrigerate them before cooking.
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Savor the delightful combination of creamy, cheesy potatoes and savory smoked sausage in this easy Crockpot recipe. Perfectly seasoned with ranch dressing mix, this comforting dish is ideal for family dinners or potlucks, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort. Simply toss your ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you enjoy more time with loved ones.
Created by: Vanessa Doyle
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4-6 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of baby potatoes, halved
- 1 pound of smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 packet of ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of cream cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup of chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a slow cooker, combine the halved baby potatoes and sliced smoked sausage.
Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix over the top. Pour in the chicken broth.
Add the cubed cream cheese on top of the mixture.
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours until potatoes are tender.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese before serving. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 15g