Cheesy Garlic Ranch Potatoes are the perfect side dish that combines the savory flavors of garlic, the richness of melted cheese, and the tangy kick of ranch seasoning. These potatoes are crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and packed with bold flavors that will elevate any meal. Whether you’re serving them alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as a standalone snack, these Cheesy Garlic Ranch Potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser. What makes them even better is their simplicity—made with just a few easy-to-find ingredients and ready in under an hour, this dish is the ultimate comfort food with a flavor-packed twist. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family, hosting a barbecue, or simply craving something indulgent, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Ingredients:
To make these irresistible Cheesy Garlic Ranch Potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 medium russet potatoes, washed and cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil (or melted butter)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheese)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, wash and peel the potatoes, if desired. Cut them into bite-sized cubes to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Place the cubed potatoes into a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter, and toss to coat the potatoes evenly.
Step 3: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix, minced garlic, salt, and pepper over the potatoes. Toss again to make sure the potatoes are well-coated with the seasoning mixture.
Step 4: Spread the seasoned potatoes out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This helps the potatoes crisp up evenly while they roast.
Step 5: Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the edges. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the potatoes using a spatula to ensure they cook evenly on all sides.
Step 6: Once the potatoes are crispy and tender, remove them from the oven. Immediately sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese over the hot potatoes. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Once the cheese has melted, remove the potatoes from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variation:
One of the best things about Cheesy Garlic Ranch Potatoes is how versatile they are. You can easily switch up the ingredients to match your preferences or make the dish even more exciting. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix. If you’re a fan of bacon, sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the potatoes before roasting them. You can also use different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a Mexican cheese blend, to create new flavor combinations. For a more indulgent version, top the potatoes with sour cream or ranch dressing before serving. Another variation is to add finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or even jalapeños to the potato mix for extra texture and flavor.
Cooking Note:
This recipe is easy to adjust based on the number of servings you need. If you’re feeding a larger crowd, simply double the ingredients and use a bigger baking sheet to ensure the potatoes cook evenly. You can also make these potatoes ahead of time by prepping them and storing them in the refrigerator before baking. Just follow the steps up until the point of roasting and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the potatoes in a hot oven or microwave until heated through. If the potatoes have lost some of their crispiness, you can pop them back in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up again.
Serving Suggestions:
Cheesy Garlic Ranch Potatoes make the perfect side dish for a variety of main courses. Serve them alongside grilled steaks, roasted chicken, or pork chops for a filling meal. You can also pair them with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a more balanced plate. These potatoes are great for backyard barbecues, family dinners, or even as a party appetizer. If you’re hosting a gathering, they’ll go wonderfully with other comfort food favorites like mac and cheese, coleslaw, or a fresh batch of cornbread. For a fun twist, serve them with dipping sauces like ranch dressing, ketchup, or sour cream.
Tips:
For extra crispy potatoes, try parboiling the potato cubes for 5–7 minutes before roasting them. This helps to soften the inside while maintaining a crisp outer layer. Another tip is to flip the potatoes halfway through cooking to ensure that all sides get evenly browned and crispy. If you want to save time, you can use pre-shredded cheese or a cheese blend, but freshly grated cheese tends to melt better and has a richer flavor. Additionally, make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet to allow enough room for the potatoes to crisp up. For added flavor, you can sprinkle some dried herbs like thyme or rosemary onto the potatoes before roasting.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
30–35 minutes
Total Time:
40–45 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, assuming 4 servings):
Calories: 320
Protein: 10g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 21g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
FAQs:
Q: Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use other types of potatoes such as Yukon Gold, baby potatoes, or red potatoes. However, russet potatoes are the best choice for a fluffy inside and crispy exterior.
Q: Can I make Cheesy Garlic Ranch Potatoes in advance?
A: Yes! You can prepare the potatoes and season them ahead of time, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This will save you time on busy days.
Q: Can I make this recipe without cheese?
A: Yes, you can omit the cheese if you’re looking for a lighter version, though the flavor won’t be as rich. You can also try topping them with a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for additional flavor and nutrition. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and mix them in with the potatoes.
Conclusion:
Cheesy Garlic Ranch Potatoes are the perfect side dish for any occasion. With their crispy edges, tender insides, and cheesy, garlicky goodness, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Simple to prepare, easy to customize, and packed with flavor, this dish will quickly become a staple at your dinner table. Whether you’re serving it with a hearty main course or enjoying it as a standalone snack, these potatoes are sure to impress. Don’t forget to experiment with different variations to suit your taste and preferences—there’s no wrong way to enjoy these cheesy, comforting potatoes.