Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a comforting dish that combines savory flavors with creamy cheese. This recipe is easy to make and is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

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The tasty smoked sausage adds a nice smoky flavor, while the ranch seasoning gives it a delicious twist. Plus, it’s a simple one-pan meal that saves you time on cleanup.

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 adds a savory, smoky flavor. Use halal-certified sausage (like turkey or beef) to stay pork-free.
• Baby Potatoes: They cook quickly and hold their shape well, making them perfect for roasting.
• Ranch Seasoning: This packet brings a tangy, herby flavor that adds depth to the dish.
• Cheddar Cheese: The melted cheese creates a creamy texture that everyone loves. Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties for a unique taste.

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) for even roasting.
2. Prep the Potatoes: Wash the baby potatoes and cut them in half or quarters for even cooking.
3. Slice the Smoked Sausage: Cut the sausage into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
4. Combine the Seasonings: In a small bowl, mix 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. Mix well.
6. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
7. Spread the Potatoes on the Sheet: Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet.
8. Add the Sausage: Scatter the sliced smoked sausage over the potatoes.
9. Roast in the Oven: Bake for 35-40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the potatoes are golden and tender.
10. Add the Cheese: Remove from the oven, sprinkle the cheese on top, and bake for another 5 minutes until melted.
11. Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped parsley and serve hot with sour cream if you’d like.

Prep Time And Nutrition Facts

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 40 minutes to cook, making a total of 50 minutes. It serves 4 people, and each serving has about 350 calories, 15 grams of protein, and 20 grams of fat.

How To Serve Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

Serve this dish hot right out of the oven. You can top it with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a nice touch. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

How To Store Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Tips To Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

• Cut potatoes uniformly for even cooking.
• You can add veggies like bell peppers or onion for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Try different cheeses based on what you have on hand.

Health And Benefits Of This Recipe

This dish offers protein from the smoked sausage and cheese, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The baby potatoes are a good source of fiber, making the meal more filling. Additionally, using olive oil and fresh herbs adds healthy fats and vitamins, making this recipe a balanced choice.

Variation (If Any)

You can make this recipe vegetarian by replacing the smoked sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms. You can also add different seasonings like paprika or chili powder for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes, you can use regular potatoes. Just cut them into smaller pieces to ensure they cook evenly.

Is there a gluten-free version of ranch seasoning?
Yes, you can find gluten-free ranch seasoning mixes at many grocery stores, or you can make your own at home.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the potatoes and sausage in advance. Store them in the fridge and roast right before serving for the best results.