As the scent of Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage wafts through my kitchen, I’m instantly transported to the warm, bustling kitchen of my grandmother, Mama Lou. Her kitchen was a haven of comfort and culinary delight, where the aroma of hearty meals often mingled with laughter and stories. I’m Chef Sofia, and today, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that embodies the warmth and nostalgia of family gatherings. With every bite of this dish, I remember the cozy dinners with Mama Lou and my sister Ouma, where the simple joy of sharing a meal was the highlight of our day.
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Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
There’s something undeniably irresistible about this Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage dish. It brings together the comforting flavors of creamy cheese, savory sausage, and the subtle tang of ranch seasoning. It’s a dish that speaks to the heart, reminiscent of those timeless family meals that Mama Lou would prepare. Whether you’re hosting a family get-together or simply seeking a comforting meal after a long day, this recipe is bound to become a favorite. Its ease of preparation and the delightful combination of flavors will have you returning to it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need for This Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
- 2 pounds of baby potatoes, quartered
- 1 pound of smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
For substitutions, you can use turkey sausage for a lighter option or swap cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450 per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1200mg
This dish provides a balanced meal with a hearty dose of protein and carbs, perfect for fueling your day.
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Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage: A Flavorful Comfort Food Delight
Learn how to make delicious Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage. Easy recipe with step-by-step instructions.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of baby potatoes, quartered
- 1 pound of smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
For substitutions, you can use turkey sausage for a lighter option or swap cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack for a milder taste.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a large baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the quartered potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat the potatoes evenly.
- Spread the potatoes in an even layer in the baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes begin to turn golden.
- Meanwhile, in a skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced smoked sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and milk until smooth.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and stir in the browned sausage. Drizzle the sour cream mixture over the potatoes and sausage.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Mama Lou always said the key to perfect potatoes is ensuring they’re well coated and cooked to a golden brown. This ensures they’re crispy on the outside while soft on the inside.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
Steps to Create Your Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
- Preheat your oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a large baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the quartered potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat the potatoes evenly.
- Spread the potatoes in an even layer in the baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes begin to turn golden.
- Meanwhile, in a skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced smoked sausage until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and milk until smooth.
- Remove the baking dish from the oven and stir in the browned sausage. Drizzle the sour cream mixture over the potatoes and sausage.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Mama Lou always said the key to perfect potatoes is ensuring they’re well coated and cooked to a golden brown. This ensures they’re crispy on the outside while soft on the inside.
Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
When preparing this dish, the type of potatoes you use can make a difference. Baby potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape well and cook quickly. However, if you’re using larger potatoes, be sure to cut them into smaller, even pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
For an added depth of flavor, you can sauté some onions and bell peppers along with the smoked sausage. This was something my sister Ouma loved to do, adding a burst of color and sweetness to the dish.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is versatile and pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors. A simple fruit salad can also complement the richness of the dish, offering a refreshing contrast.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a baking dish and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it on medium heat, but be sure to do so in short intervals to avoid drying out the cheese.
As with many of Mama Lou’s recipes, this dish only gets better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main ingredients for Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage?
The main ingredients for Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
How long does it take to make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage?
The total time to make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.
Can I make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage ahead of time?
Yes, Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.
What can I serve with Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage?
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.
Is Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage suitable for special diets?
Depending on the ingredients used, Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage dish is not just about the delicious end result, but also about the memories and connections it fosters. As you prepare this meal, I hope you’re reminded of your own cherished family moments, just as I am of my times with Mama Lou and Ouma. Every bite is a testament to the love and joy that food can bring into our lives. May this recipe bring warmth and togetherness to your table, just as it has to mine.
