Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
why make this recipe
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a delicious and easy dish that everyone will love. It combines smoky sausage with tender, roasted baby potatoes, all topped with gooey melted cheese. This meal is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy evenings.
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 is the star of the dish. It adds a rich smoky flavor. Choose halal-certified smoked sausage (like turkey or beef) to keep your meal pork-free.
- Baby Potatoes: These little potatoes cook quickly and stay firm, making them ideal for roasting. You can also use russet potatoes, but baby potatoes offer a tender texture that’s very satisfying.
- Ranch Seasoning: The ranch seasoning packet adds a tangy, herbal kick, enhancing the overall flavor with minimal effort.
- Cheddar Cheese: Rich, melting cheddar cheese is what makes this dish so indulgent. Feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack for something different.
Directions
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step helps get your potatoes crispy.
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Prep the Potatoes: Wash the baby potatoes and cut them in half or quarters. This helps them cook evenly.
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Slice the Smoked Sausage: Cut the smoked sausage into 1/4-inch thick rounds. This allows the sausage to cook well and infuse its flavor into the potatoes.
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Combine the Seasonings: In a small bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
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Coat the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil and half of the ranch seasoning mixture until they’re well coated.
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Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly to prevent sticking.
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Spread the Potatoes on the Sheet: Evenly spread the potatoes on the baking sheet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure they roast well.
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Add the Sausage: Scatter the sliced smoked sausage over the potatoes for even distribution.
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Roast in the Oven: Roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and tender. Stir halfway through cooking.
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Add the Cheese: Take the baking sheet out of the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the sausage and potatoes. Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
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Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove from the oven. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. A dollop of sour cream adds extra creaminess if you like.
how to serve Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Serve the dish hot as a main course. It pairs well with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. If desired, offer extra sour cream and fresh parsley on the side for garnish.
how to store Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
If you have leftovers, allow the dish to cool and then transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in the oven until heated through.
tips to make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
- Cut Potatoes Uniformly: Make sure to cut your potatoes into similar sizes for even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Giving the potatoes and sausage enough space helps them roast properly and get crispy edges.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Don’t be afraid to mix different cheeses together for a unique flavor!
variation
You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Simply toss them in with the potatoes and sausage before roasting.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A: Yes, you can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prep the ingredients the day before and assemble them right before roasting for a quick meal.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as you use gluten-free ranch seasoning and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
