Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a delightful comfort food that brings the whole family together. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of savory smoked sausage, tender potatoes, and gooey cheese makes this dish simply irresistible. Plus, it can be made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze!
How to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked sausage (halal-certified, no pork)
- 4 cups baby potatoes, halved or quartered
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (make sure it’s halal-certified)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorite cheeses)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Key Ingredients:
- Smoked Sausage: Adds a savory, smoky flavor that enhances the dish. Always choose halal-certified options to keep it pork-free and suitable for dietary needs.
- Baby Potatoes: Ideal for roasting, they cook quickly and keep their shape, making them tender and easy to handle.
- Ranch Seasoning: This packet brings a tangy, herby flavor that ties all the ingredients together without needing many extras.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melts into a creamy texture that makes the dish irresistible. Feel free to mix in other cheeses for a different taste.
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This prepares the cooking environment for crispy roasted potatoes.
- Prep the Potatoes: Wash the baby potatoes and cut them into halves or quarters. This allows for even cooking.
- Slice the Smoked Sausage: Cut the smoked sausage into 1/4-inch thick rounds to ensure it cooks through and flavors the potatoes.
- Combine the Seasonings: In a small bowl, mix the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Coat the Potatoes: Place the halved potatoes in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle half of the ranch seasoning mixture. Toss until they’re coated evenly.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Use parchment paper or lightly grease the baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Spread the Potatoes on the Sheet: Lay out the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet to roast without crowding.
- Add the Sausage: Scatter the sliced sausage over the potatoes evenly.
- Roast in the Oven: Bake for 35-40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the potatoes are golden and tender.
- Add the Cheese: Once roasted, top with shredded cheddar cheese and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Take out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with a dollop of sour cream if you like.
How to Serve Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Serve this delicious dish hot from the oven. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. If desired, add a dollop of sour cream on top for an extra creamy touch. This meal can easily be served as a hearty main dish or a side for larger family gatherings.
How to Store Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
- Ensure the potatoes are cut roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique flavor.
- If you like a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
Variation
For a healthier twist, try using chicken sausage, or substitute half of the potatoes with broccoli florets or bell peppers for added veggies.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes, you can use russet potatoes. Just make sure to cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Definitely! You can replace the smoked sausage with a plant-based sausage alternative and keep the other ingredients the same.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and sausage combination in advance, store them in the fridge, and bake them right before you need to serve. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep!
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked sausage (halal-certified, no pork)
- 4 cups baby potatoes, halved or quartered
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (make sure it’s halal-certified)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of your favorite cheeses)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Method
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash the baby potatoes and cut them into halves or quarters.
- Cut the smoked sausage into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- In a small bowl, mix the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Cooking
- Place the halved potatoes in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle half of the ranch seasoning mixture. Toss until they’re coated evenly.
- Use parchment paper or lightly grease the baking sheet.
- Lay out the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Scatter the sliced sausage over the potatoes evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the potatoes are golden and tender.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until melted.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with a dollop of sour cream if desired.