Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a comfort food classic that combines hearty smoked sausage with tender, seasoned baby potatoes, all melted together with rich cheddar cheese. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a family favorite. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, everyone will love this cheesy, savory delight.
Why make this recipe
Making Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a no-brainer for anyone looking for a quick, satisfying meal. It’s a one-pan dish that saves time on both cooking and cleanup. With bold flavors from ranch seasoning and cheesy goodness, it brings together all the elements of a hearty meal in a simple way. Plus, the use of halal-certified ingredients makes it suitable for those with dietary preferences.
How to prepare Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Cooking up this delicious dish is an enjoyable process. Follow these simple steps to make your own Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage right at home!
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 Breakdown:
- Smoked Sausage: This is the key ingredient that adds a savory, smoky flavor to the dish. Use halal-certified smoked sausage (often turkey or beef) to keep it pork-free and meet dietary preferences.
- Baby Potatoes: These potatoes are perfect for roasting as they cook quickly, hold their shape, and are easy to handle.
- Ranch Seasoning: This mix brings a tangy and herby flavor that ties the dish together, making it simple to prepare without too many extra ingredients.
- Cheddar Cheese: Melty cheddar adds a rich and creamy texture. You can also try mozzarella, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack for a twist!
Steps:
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your potatoes roast nicely and get crispy.
Prep the Potatoes: Wash your 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 to allow it to cook through and infuse flavor into the potatoes.
Combine the Seasonings: In a small bowl, mix ranch seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Coat the Potatoes: Place the halved potatoes in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle in half of your ranch seasoning mix. Toss until they’re well-coated.
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the dish from sticking.
Spread the Potatoes on the Sheet: Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly on the baking sheet in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded.
Add the Sausage: Scatter your sliced smoked sausage evenly over the potatoes.
Roast in the Oven: Pop the baking sheet in your preheated oven and roast for 35-40 minutes until the potatoes are golden brown and tender. Stir halfway through for even cooking.
Add the Cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheese over the mixture. Bake for another 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Once done, sprinkle chopped parsley for color, and serve hot with a dollop of sour cream if desired.
How to serve Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Serve this delicious dish warm, straight from the oven. It pairs perfectly with a side salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream on top adds an extra layer of creaminess!
How to store Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can easily reheat them in the oven or microwave.
Tips to make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage perfectly
- Ensure your baking sheet is not overcrowded to allow proper roasting.
- If you like a little kick, add some sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.
- Use fresh herbs instead of dried if you want a brighter taste.
Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the sausage and add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Version: Incorporate some hot sausage or add chili powder for some heat.
- Cheesy Versions: Use a blend of different cheeses for added depth of flavor.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use russet potatoes, but baby potatoes are preferred for tenderness and ease of handling.
Q2: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge and makes for great leftovers.
Q3: What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with a fresh side salad, steamed veggies, or even crusty bread. Enjoy!
In conclusion, this Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage recipe combines vibrant flavors and textures, making it a meal everyone will enjoy. Give it a try for your next family dinner!
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
A comfort food classic combining hearty smoked sausage, seasoned baby potatoes, and melted cheddar cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
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.
- Slice the smoked sausage into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- In a small bowl, mix ranch seasoning with garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil and half of the ranch seasoning mix.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly on the baking sheet.
- Scatter the sliced smoked sausage over the potatoes.
- Roast in the oven for 35-40 minutes until the potatoes are golden brown, stirring halfway through.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle cheese over the mixture; bake for another 5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot with sour cream if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, add jalapeños or experiment with different cheese blends.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: cheesy potatoes, smoked sausage, comfort food