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Thanksgiving Baked Cheesy Ranch Potatoes
Baked Cheesy Ranch Potatoes absolutely steal the show! Every time I whip these up, the kitchen fills with the mouthwatering aroma that makes even the most savory turkey unappealing for a split second. It’s like Christmas for your taste buds!
What’s in Baked Cheesy Ranch Potatoes?
- 2 lbs baby potatoes (red or gold) – These little bite-sized wonders are perfect for roasting! Their smooth texture complements the creaminess of the cheeses.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – I prefer using sharp cheddar because it adds that rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the ranch dressing.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Mozzarella brings that ooey-gooey texture. Don’t skimp on this, trust me!
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix – My secret weapon! It gives these potatoes that irresistible ranch flavor without any fuss.
- 1 cup sour cream – The creamy goodness that ties everything together beautifully!
- 3 tbsp olive oil – A must for roasting! It helps crisp up those potatoes and keep them moist inside.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Never underestimate the power of seasoning. It can make or break a dish!
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (for garnish) – Because we eat with our eyes first! Chives add a pop of color and flavor at the end.
Are Baked Cheesy Ranch Potatoes Good for You?
Potatoes are a fantastic source of complex carbohydrates, providing energy, especially during those long holiday celebrations. Plus, they also pack in potassium, which is great for keeping your heart healthy. One could argue that the cheddar and mozzarella provide calcium and protein, making this dish a true winner!
Ingredients List
- 2 lbs baby potatoes (red or gold), halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup sour cream
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
How to Make Baked Cheesy Ranch Potatoes?
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. The smell of warm potatoes is just around the corner!
- In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with olive oil, ranch dressing mix, salt, and pepper until they’re all coated and looking fabulous.
- Spread these beautifully coated potatoes in the greased baking dish in an even layer, making sure they have some breathing space.
- Bake them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they’re tender and golden brown. Don’t forget to give them a gentle stir halfway through for even cooking.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C). They smell divine, don’t they?
- In another bowl, mix up the sour cream, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella until it’s all beautifully blended. It should be calling your name at this point!
- Pour that cheesy mixture over the baked potatoes and spread it out evenly, covering as much potato as possible.
- Pop the dish back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly like a warm hug!
- Let your masterpiece cool for a few before garnishing with fresh chives. Serve warm and watch it disappear!
Potato Pleasantries & Tips!
Feel free to get creative! You can add cooked bacon bits to the cheese mixture for extra flavor—because everything’s better with bacon, right? Or if you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some sautéed onions or bell peppers for a little crunch.
These Baked Cheesy Ranch Potatoes are the perfect pairing for turkey, ham, or even just as a comforting dish on their own! Your guests will be raving about them for years to come. So, grab your potatoes, let’s get cooking, and together let’s create some delicious Thanksgiving memories!
I’d love to hear how yours turn out, so don’t be shy! Snap a pic and share it with me. Happy cooking, and even happier eating!
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