Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes are a crispy, cheesy, flavor-packed side dish that pairs beautifully with just about any meal. These roasted potatoes are tossed in ranch seasoning, garlic, and olive oil, then baked until golden and crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. A generous sprinkle of shredded cheese at the end transforms them into a gooey, savory treat that’s both comforting and crave-worthy. Whether you’re serving them alongside grilled chicken, burgers, steak, or even for breakfast with eggs, these potatoes are always a hit. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a versatile side dish that works for weeknight dinners, cookouts, or holiday tables.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby red or Yukon Gold potatoes, halved or quartered
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch dressing mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Wash and dry the potatoes. Cut into halves or quarters depending on size for even roasting.
Step 3: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Step 4: Spread the potatoes out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, cut side down for maximum crispiness.
Step 5: Roast in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the edges.
Step 6: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the hot potatoes. Return to the oven for 3–5 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.
Variation
- Use baby purple or tri-color potatoes for visual appeal.
- Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different cheesy flavor.
- Add cooked bacon crumbles on top after baking for a loaded potato version.
- Toss in broccoli florets or bell peppers for a more veggie-forward side dish.
- Serve with a drizzle of ranch dressing or sour cream on top for extra indulgence.
Cooking Note
For ultra-crispy potatoes, make sure to space them out on the baking sheet so they roast rather than steam. Avoid overcrowding the pan. Using parchment or foil also helps with even browning and easy cleanup. If desired, you can broil the potatoes for 1–2 minutes at the end to brown the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes with grilled steak, barbecue chicken, burgers, or pulled pork. They also make a great brunch side alongside eggs and sausage. For a fun twist, pile them into a bowl and top with sour cream, scallions, and extra cheese for a loaded potato side. These are also perfect for game day snacks, potlucks, and casual family meals.
Tips
- Cut potatoes into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
- If using russet potatoes, peel them for better texture.
- For added crunch, roast an extra 5–10 minutes before adding cheese.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat in the oven to restore crispness.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: 320 per serving
Protein: 9g
Sodium: 610mg
FAQs
Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?
- Yes. Mix together 1 teaspoon each of dried parsley, dill, onion powder, and garlic powder with ½ teaspoon salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper.
Can I make these in the air fryer?
- Yes. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, shaking halfway. Add cheese during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Do I need to boil the potatoes first?
- No. Roasting them raw is enough, and they crisp up nicely in the oven without pre-boiling.
Can I use frozen potatoes?
- It’s best to use fresh potatoes for the best texture. Frozen ones may not get as crispy due to moisture content.
What’s the best cheese to use?
- Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can experiment with other melt-friendly cheeses like pepper jack, gouda, or fontina.
Conclusion
Cheesy Ranch Oven Roasted Potatoes are a flavorful, crispy, and cheesy side dish that adds excitement to any meal. With bold ranch seasoning, golden roasted edges, and gooey melted cheese, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, this recipe is great for busy weeknights, relaxed weekends, and everything in between. If you’re looking for a simple way to elevate your roasted potatoes, this cheesy ranch version will quickly become a family favorite.