Why make this recipe
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a delicious and hearty dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to your dining table. It combines the savory taste of smoked sausage with tender potatoes, all coated in creamy cheese and tangy ranch seasoning.
This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests with minimal effort. It’s simple to prepare and can be tailored to suit your taste preferences, making it a versatile option for any meal.
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 Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage hot from the oven. You can dish it out on individual plates or serve it family-style in a large bowl. It pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Don’t forget to offer sour cream on the side for extra creaminess!
How to store Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and then place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. The flavors will still be delicious, though the potatoes may lose some crispiness.
Tips to make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
- Make sure to cut the potatoes into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- For extra flavor, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or onions to the mix.
- If you want a bit of heat, try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Experiment with different cheese blends for variety – a mix of mozzarella and pepper jack adds a nice twist.
Variation
You can modify this recipe by using different proteins, such as chicken or turkey sausage, or by making it vegetarian by omitting the sausage and adding more veggies like broccoli or carrots.
FAQs
Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
- Yes, you can use regular potatoes, but be sure to cut them into smaller pieces and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
- Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free ranch seasoning mix, this dish can be made gluten-free.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
- You can substitute the cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives and skip the sour cream or use a dairy-free version.
