Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

why make this recipe

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together savory flavors and creamy textures. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or gatherings with family and friends. The combination of tender baby potatoes, smoky sausage, and gooey melted cheese makes it an irresistible meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy cooks.

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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)

Smoked Sausage: This is the key ingredient that adds a savory, smoky flavor to the dish. Be sure to use halal-certified smoked sausage, often made from turkey or beef, to keep it pork-free and meet dietary preferences.

Baby Potatoes: These small potatoes cook quickly and hold their shape, making them ideal for roasting. You can use russet potatoes as an alternative, but baby potatoes are more tender and easier to handle.

Ranch Seasoning: The ranch seasoning packet is the secret to adding a tangy, herby flavor that brings everything together. It’s a great way to add flavor without needing a lot of extra ingredients.

Cheddar Cheese: Melting cheddar cheese creates that rich, creamy texture that makes this dish irresistible. You can try different cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or Monterey Jack for a unique twist.

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the potatoes will roast nicely and get crispy around the edges.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. Combine the Seasonings: In a small bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.

5. 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.

6. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

7. 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.

8. Add the Sausage: Scatter the sliced smoked sausage pieces over the potatoes, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.

9. 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.

10. 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.

11. 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

You can serve Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage as a main dish or as a hearty side dish. It pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. For extra flavor, top it with sour cream and fresh parsley. This dish is also great for meal prep and can be enjoyed for lunch the next day.

how to store Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. To reheat, use an oven or microwave until warmed through.

tips to make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

• Cut the potatoes uniformly so they cook evenly.
• Experiment with different cheese blends for variety.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; this helps achieve crispy edges.
• Add additional veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for more nutrition.

variation (if any)

You can customize this dish by adding different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. Additionally, you can swap the smoked sausage for chicken or turkey sausage, or make it vegetarian by using plant-based sausage alternatives.

FAQs

Q: Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
A: Yes, you can use regular potatoes. Just cut them into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

Q: Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
A: You can add diced jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.

Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prep the potatoes and sausage, toss them with the seasoning, and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to roast them.

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