Baked Cheddar Ranch Potatoes are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, with a cheesy ranch flavor that is simply irresistible! Topped with melty cheddar, they make a perfect side dish.
Who can resist cheesy potatoes? I love making these for gatherings—they disappear faster than you can say “yum!” 😄 Plus, they’re super easy to whip up and always impress!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: Yellow or red baby potatoes work best here. They’re creamy and tender. If you don’t have these types, try using regular potatoes, just chop them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds great flavor! You can easily make your own with equal parts garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs like dill and parsley. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider a homemade blend or a lighter dressing mix.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for the bold flavor, but feel free to use mild cheddar or a cheese blend if that’s what you have. A sprinkle of mozzarella or pepper jack can also create a nice twist!
Bacon: Crumbled bacon gives a salty crunch. If you want to keep it vegetarian, use crispy roasted chickpeas or skip this ingredient altogether. Smoked tofu is another great substitute for a similar taste.
How Do I Get the Potatoes Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the potatoes properly is key to this recipe! You want them tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. When preparing, follow these simple tips:
- Cut potatoes into uniform sizes for even cooking—halves or quarters work well depending on their size.
- Make sure to toss them well with the olive oil and seasoning mix; this helps the flavors stick and gives them a nice roast.
- Bake them spread out in a single layer. This allows the heat to circulate and makes them crispy.
- Stir halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly without burning.
How to Make Baked Cheddar Ranch Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 2 pounds baby potatoes (yellow or red), halved or quartered if large
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet (about 1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Toppings:
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 40-45 minutes to cook. You will have tender, cheesy, and flavorful potatoes ready to serve in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it nice and hot. As it heats up, lightly grease a large baking dish so the potatoes don’t stick.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil. Add the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Keep mixing until all the potatoes are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
3. Arrange in Baking Dish:
Spread the seasoned potatoes out evenly in the greased baking dish. Make sure they are in a single layer—this helps them cook evenly and get crispy!
4. Bake the Potatoes:
Pop the dish into the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 30-35 minutes. Stir the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure they brown nicely on all sides. They should be tender when done!
5. Add the Cheese:
Once the potatoes are cooked, take the baking dish out of the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes.
6. Melt the Cheese:
Put the dish back in the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is melted and bubbly—it adds a wonderful gooey texture!
7. Finish with Toppings:
Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the crumbled bacon and chopped fresh chives over the top for a tasty finish.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Baked Cheddar Ranch Potatoes are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm as a flavorful side dish with your favorite main course. Enjoy every cheesy, crunchy bite!
Can I Use Different Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are ideal for this recipe, you can use any type of potatoes. Just ensure they’re cut into similar sizes for even cooking. Russets or Yukon Golds can work great, too!
Can I Make This Dish Without Bacon?
Yes, you can easily omit the bacon for a vegetarian version! For added flavor and texture, try crumbled feta cheese, crispy roasted chickpeas, or even sautéed mushrooms as a topping instead.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover baked cheddar ranch potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or use the microwave for a quick option.
Can I Prepare the Potatoes in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the potatoes and toss them in the seasoning mix up to a day before. Just cover and refrigerate them. When you’re ready to cook, spread them in the baking dish and proceed with the recipe as directed. This makes mealtime even easier!
