Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage combines the great flavors of savory smoked sausage and creamy, melted cheese with perfectly roasted potatoes. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Plus, using halal-certified ingredients ensures that it meets dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

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)

Notes on Ingredients:

Smoked Sausage: This is 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

These cheesy ranch potatoes are perfect as a main dish or a side. Pair them with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to provide balance to your meal. They are also great for potlucks or family gatherings!

How to Store Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. If you plan to store them, you may want to keep the sour cream separate until serving for the best texture.

Tips to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

For extra crispiness, make sure the potatoes are spaced out on the baking sheet.
If you like it spicy, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix.
Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or onions for added flavor and nutrition.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by using different types of sausages or cheese. Try using Italian sausage for a different flavor profile, or add some diced bell peppers or broccoli for added veggies.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and sausage and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. Just be sure to add the cheese right before finishing in the oven.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are great, you can also use russet or red potatoes. Just cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free ranch seasoning mix, this recipe can be gluten-free as well as halal-certified.

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage