Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage—what’s not to love? This dish brings together the savory goodness of smoked sausage with tender, roasted baby potatoes, all smothered in melted cheese and infused with ranch seasoning. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is a real crowd-pleaser. The combination of flavors makes it both comforting and satisfying, leaving everyone asking for seconds. Trust me; once you try this dish, it’ll quickly find a regular spot in your meal rotation!

Why you’ll love this dish

What makes Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage stand out among countless recipes? Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make—perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence. The budget-friendly ingredients mean you can whip up a delicious meal without breaking the bank. Plus, this recipe is kid-approved, making it a fantastic option for family dinners. The smoky flavor of the sausage and the creamy, cheesy goodness are a hit with both kids and adults alike.

“Absolutely delicious! The flavors are incredible, and it was a hit with my whole family. I’ll definitely be making this again!” —A satisfied home cook.

Step-by-step overview

Making Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a straightforward process. You’ll start by preheating your oven, preparing the ingredients, and then just roasting and mixing them together. It’s all about patience and letting those flavors meld beautifully in the oven, culminating in a dish that’s not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying. Here’s a quick overview: roast your seasoned potatoes, add the sausage, sprinkle on the cheese, and let it all come together.

What you’ll need

To make this scrumptious dish, gather the following 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 (or a mix of your favorite cheeses)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

If you’re looking to switch things up, consider using different types of potatoes or cheeses for a personalized touch.

Step-by-step instructions

Here’s how to prepare this delectable dish in just a few easy steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure that those potatoes roast to perfection.
  2. Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. This helps everything cook evenly.
  3. Slice the smoked sausage into 1/4-inch thick rounds. This allows the sausage to infuse its flavor into the potatoes as they roast.
  4. In a small bowl, mix the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper together.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the halved potatoes with olive oil and half of the ranch seasoning mixture. Toss well to coat.
  6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
  7. Spread the potatoes evenly on the baking sheet in a single layer for optimal roasting.
  8. Scatter the sliced sausage over the potatoes, ensuring even distribution.
  9. Roast everything in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, stirring halfway through to promote even cooking.
  10. Once the potatoes are golden brown and tender, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top, returning it to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  11. Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot with a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Best ways to enjoy it

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage can be enjoyed in several delightful ways. Serve it straight from the baking sheet family-style, allowing everyone to scoop their portions. Pair it with a side salad for a refreshing contrast, or even coleslaw for that added crunch. It also makes for an excellent side dish for grilled meats—add a nice touch of variety to your barbecue spread!

Storage and reheating tips

If you find you’ve made too much or simply want to prepare ahead, storing this dish is simple! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly.

Helpful cooking tips

To elevate your Cheesy Ranch Potatoes, consider these tips:

  • Ensure your potatoes are uniform in size for even cooking.
  • Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and texture.
  • Experiment with different types of cheese—pepper jack adds a spicy kick, while mozzarella offers gooey satisfaction.
  • For a crispier finish, broil the dish for a few minutes after adding the cheese to achieve that golden-brown perfection.

Creative twists

Want to put your personal spin on this recipe? Try using other proteins like chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Alternatively, toss in some steamed broccoli or corn for added vegetables. Mixing different seasonings, such as taco seasoning or a bit of smoked paprika, can also bring a completely new flavor profile to this dish.

Your questions answered

Q1: Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are ideal for their tender texture, you can use russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. Just ensure they are cut smaller to cook evenly.

Q2: How long does this dish take to prepare?
Overall, you can expect to spend about 10-15 minutes on prep and 40-45 minutes on cooking, making it a great option for a quick family dinner.

Q3: Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance, then quickly assemble and cook when you’re ready to eat. If stored, reheating is easy and convenient!

Enjoy making this delightful dish that’s sure to please everyone at your table!

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

A comforting and satisfying dish featuring smoked sausage and tender roasted baby potatoes, all smothered in melted cheese and infused with ranch seasoning. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main 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 (or a mix of your favorite cheeses)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and cut them in half or quarters.
  • Slice the smoked sausage into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
  • In a large bowl, combine the halved potatoes with olive oil and half of the ranch seasoning mixture. Toss well to coat.
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
  • Spread the potatoes evenly on the baking sheet in a single layer.
  • Scatter the sliced sausage over the potatoes.

Cooking

  • Roast in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  • Once golden brown and tender, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, until melted.
  • Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot with sour cream if desired.

Notes

For a crispier finish, consider broiling the dish for a few minutes after adding the cheese. You can mix different types of cheese or add additional vegetables for a unique twist.
Keyword Cheesy Ranch Potatoes, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family Meal, Smoked Sausage

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