Simple photo of Cheesy Ranc — Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage 9

Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a delightful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It’s easy to make, packs a ton of flavor, and is loved by both kids and adults. With savory smoked sausage and crispy baby potatoes covered in melted cheese, this recipe holds a special place in anyone’s heart. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, making clean-up a breeze!

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: This is the star of the dish, adding a savory and smoky flavor. Look for halal-certified options like turkey or beef sausage to keep it pork-free.
Baby Potatoes: They cook quickly and stay tender, making them a great choice for roasting. You can also use russet potatoes if you prefer.
Ranch Seasoning: This adds a tangy and herby flavor to the dish and saves you from adding multiple spices.
Cheddar Cheese: The melted cheese brings a rich texture that’s hard to resist. Experiment with different cheese varieties for fun variations.

Directions:

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the potatoes roast perfectly.
Prep the Potatoes: Wash the baby potatoes. Cut them in half or quarters to help them cook evenly.
Slice the Smoked Sausage: Cut the smoked sausage into 1/4-inch thick rounds. This lets the sausage cook through and flavor the potatoes.
Combine the Seasonings: In a small bowl, mix the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
Coat the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil and half of the ranch seasoning mix until they are well-coated.
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly to avoid sticking.
Spread the Potatoes on the Sheet: Lay the seasoned potatoes out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Add the Sausage: Evenly distribute the sliced smoked sausage over the potatoes.
Roast in the Oven: Bake for 35-40 minutes until the potatoes are golden and tender. Stir midway for even cooking.
Add the Cheese: Remove from the oven, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake for another 5 minutes until melted.
Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese is bubbly and melted, add chopped parsley for garnish. Serve hot with sour cream if you like.

How to Serve Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

This dish is tasty on its own but can be served with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a dollop of sour cream or even some hot sauce if you like a kick.

How to Store Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave.

Tips to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

Cut the potatoes into similar sizes for uniform cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure they roast well.
Feel free to customize the cheese type based on your preferences for a different flavor profile.

Serving Ideas

You can serve this dish with a fresh green salad or garlic bread to make it a hearty meal. Adding a fruit salad as a dessert can make it a perfect family dinner!

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a flexible and delicious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it an excellent choice for any meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use any type of halal sausage you prefer, such as turkey or beef.

2. What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
You can make your own ranch seasoning using dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder.

3. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can make it ahead and store leftovers for easy meals during the week. Just reheat before serving.

Enjoy your delicious cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage!