Name: Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
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)

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Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a hearty dish that brings together the comforting flavors of golden potatoes and savory smoked sausage. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a great mix of creamy and tangy tastes that everyone will love. It’s a perfect meal for family dinners or gatherings, and it requires minimal effort while packing big flavors. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy a filling dish that satisfies everyone’s cravings.

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 that adds a smoky flavor. Always choose halal-certified options to meet dietary needs.
Baby Potatoes: These cook quickly and are perfect for roasting. They are tender and easy to work with.
Ranch Seasoning: This packet adds a delicious tangy, herby taste that connects all the flavors.
Cheddar Cheese: It melts beautifully and gives a creamy finish. Feel free to experiment with other cheese varieties for different flavors.

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the potatoes to roast nicely and become crispy.
Prep the Potatoes: Clean the baby potatoes and cut them in half or quarters so they cook evenly.
Slice the Smoked Sausage: Cut the smoked sausage into 1/4-inch thick rounds to make sure it cooks thoroughly and adds its flavor to the dish.
Combine the Seasonings: In a small bowl, mix together 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 lightly grease it to avoid sticking.
Spread the Potatoes on the Sheet: Place the seasoned baby potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded.
Add the Sausage: Scatter the sliced smoked sausage over the potatoes.
Roast in the Oven: Cook in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Add the Cheese: When the potatoes are golden and tender, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return to the oven for another 5 minutes to melt the cheese.
Garnish and Serve: Take the dish out and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, with a dollop of sour cream if you’d like.

How to Serve Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

This dish is best served warm right out of the oven. It can be a main dish or a hearty side. Consider serving it with a side salad or some steamed vegetables to balance the meal.

How to Store Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. The dish will still taste great, but the potatoes may lose some crispiness.

Tips to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

For extra flavor, try adding your favorite herbs or spices to the potatoes before roasting.
Make sure the potatoes are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
You can use different types of cheese for variety, such as mozzarella for a stretchier texture or pepper jack for some spice.

Variation

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for a colorful and nutritious twist. You can also swap the smoked sausage for chicken or turkey if you prefer a leaner option.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use turkey, beef, or chicken sausage as long as it’s halal-certified and fits your dietary needs.

2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the smoked sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it altogether, adding more veggies in its place.

3. What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
You can make your own ranch seasoning using a mix of dried herbs like parsley, dill, and chives, along with garlic and onion powder.