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Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a fantastic dish that combines hearty ingredients with rich flavors. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The combination of creamy cheese, savory smoked sausage, and tender potatoes makes it a comfort food favorite. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, which means you can spend more time enjoying your meal rather than cooking!

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

To serve, simply scoop generous amounts onto plates and garnish with fresh parsley. A dollop of sour cream adds a nice contrast and extra creaminess, making each bite delightful. This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.

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 about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Tips to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

Chop your potatoes uniformly for even cooking.
To enhance flavors, let the potatoes and sausage marinate with the seasoning for about 30 minutes before cooking.
Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese based on your preferences. More cheese equals a creamier texture!

Variations

You can customize this dish by adding vegetables, such as bell peppers or broccoli, to the baking sheet. These not only add flavor but also make the dish more colorful and nutritious.

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes! You can use any type of halal-certified sausage that you enjoy, such as turkey or beef sausage.
What can I use instead of ranch seasoning?
If you prefer, you can create your own seasoning mix using dried herbs and spices like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep the potatoes and sausage in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator and add them to the oven when you’re ready to cook.