Cheesy Sausage and Potato Bake

Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s a one-pan meal, meaning less cleanup and all the delicious flavors come together easily. The combination of smoky sausage, tender potatoes, and creamy cheese creates a satisfying dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s simple to make, making it great for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.

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: The key ingredient that adds a savory, smoky flavor to the dish. Make sure to use halal-certified smoked sausage (often turkey or beef sausage) to keep it pork-free and meet dietary preferences.
Baby Potatoes: Baby potatoes are perfect for this dish as they cook quickly and hold their shape, making them ideal for roasting. You can also use russet potatoes, but baby potatoes are more tender and easy to handle.
Ranch Seasoning: The ranch seasoning packet is the secret to adding that tangy, herby flavor that ties everything together. It’s a great way to add flavor without needing a lot of extra ingredients.
Cheddar Cheese: The melted cheddar cheese creates that rich, creamy texture that makes this dish irresistible. You can experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the potatoes will roast nicely and get crispy around the edges.
Prep the Potatoes: Wash the baby potatoes and cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. This helps them cook more evenly and quickly.
Slice the Smoked Sausage: Slice the smoked sausage into 1/4-inch thick rounds. This allows the sausage to cook through and infuse its smoky flavor into the potatoes.
Combine the Seasonings: In a small bowl, mix together 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 with half of the ranch seasoning mixture. Toss the potatoes until they’re evenly coated.
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Spread the Potatoes on the Sheet: Evenly spread the seasoned potatoes on the baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they’re not overcrowded so they can roast evenly.
Add the Sausage: Scatter the sliced smoked sausage pieces over the potatoes, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
Roast in the Oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and tender. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking and prevent the potatoes from sticking.
Add the Cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes and sausage. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese is melted, remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

How to Serve Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

Serve this dish hot straight from the oven. It can be a hearty main dish on its own or served alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Adding a dollop of sour cream on top enhances its creaminess and flavor.

How to Store Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or bake in the oven until warmed through.

Tips to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

Cut Uniformly: Cut your potatoes to the same size to ensure they cook evenly.
Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese for a different flavor profile.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Make sure there’s enough space on the baking sheet for the potatoes to roast properly.

Variations

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also use different seasonings or even add chili flakes for some heat.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use any type of sausage you like as long as it is halal-certified. Turkey or beef sausages are great options.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Then, assemble and bake it when you’re ready to eat.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Check the ranch seasoning mix for gluten-free labels if you need it to be gluten-free. Most ranch seasoning mixes should be gluten-free, but it’s always good to verify.