Why Make This Recipe
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a delicious and comforting dish that brings together savory flavors and creamy textures. It’s simple to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With the perfect balance of crunchy potatoes, hearty sausage, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, so cleanup is 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: This adds a savory, smoky flavor to the dish. Look for halal-certified smoked sausage to keep it pork-free.
- Baby Potatoes: They cook quickly and hold their shape well, making them ideal for roasting.
- Ranch Seasoning: This adds tangy, herby flavor with minimal effort.
- Cheddar Cheese: The melted cheese creates a rich, creamy texture that makes this dish irresistible.
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will help the potatoes roast nicely.
- Prep the Potatoes: Wash the baby potatoes and cut them in half or quarters for even cooking.
- Slice the Smoked Sausage: Cut the smoked sausage into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- 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 coated.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- Spread the Potatoes on the Sheet: Arrange the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Add the Sausage: Scatter the sliced smoked sausage evenly over the potatoes.
- Roast in the Oven: Bake for 35-40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender.
- Add the Cheese: Remove from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Once melted, garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with sour cream if desired.
How to Serve Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Serve this dish hot as a main course or as a hearty side. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. For added flavor, offer a dollop of sour cream on top for those who enjoy a creamy touch.
How to Store Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
- For extra crunch, try broiling the dish for a couple of minutes after adding the cheese.
- Use different types of cheese to mix up the flavor, like mozzarella or pepper jack.
- You can add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or onions, for extra nutrition and flavor.
Variation
For a healthier twist, you can swap out the smoked sausage for grilled chicken or turkey. You can also use sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of sausage?
A: Yes, you can! Just make sure it’s halal-certified if you want to keep it pork-free.
Q: Are there dairy-free options for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use dairy-free cheese or skip the cheese altogether.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add some red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage for an extra kick!
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
A delicious one-pan meal bringing together savory smoked sausage, crunchy baby potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
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 (halal-certified)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash the baby potatoes and cut them in half or quarters for even cooking.
- 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.
- In a large bowl, drizzle halved potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle half of the ranch seasoning mixture. Toss until coated.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- Arrange the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Scatter the sliced smoked sausage evenly over the potatoes.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and tender.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with sour cream if desired.
Notes
For extra crunch, broil the dish for a couple of minutes after adding the cheese. Use different types of cheese for a varied flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal, Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: cheesy, ranch, potatoes, sausage, one-pan meal, comfort food