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Welcome to a recipe that's bound to become a family favorite – Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage! This dish combines the smoky, savory flavors of Monon Meats smoked sausage with creamy, cheesy potatoes, all brought together with the rich taste of ranch dressing. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or a special weekend treat. Let's dive into the ingredients and see what makes this dish so irresistibly good.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Monon Meats Smoked Sausage: Thinly sliced to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor distribution throughout the dish.
- 2 lbs Potatoes: Diced into bite-sized pieces. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their texture and flavor.
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Provides a creamy and cheesy richness. You can also mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for variation.
- 1 packet Ranch Dressing Mix: Adds the distinct, tangy ranch flavor that pairs perfectly with the sausage and potatoes.
- 1/2 cup Milk: Helps to create a smooth, creamy texture in the dish.
- 1/4 cup Melted Butter: Adds richness and helps to bring all the ingredients together.
- 1 Onion: Finely diced. Yellow or white onions are ideal for their sweetness and flavor when cooked.
- 2 cloves Garlic: Minced to add a subtle garlic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste. Season to your preference to bring out all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup Chopped Green Onions: For garnish, adding a fresh, bright finish to the dish.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the ingredients. This ensures that the oven reaches the right temperature by the time you're ready to bake the dish.
- Brown the Sausage
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the thinly sliced Monon Meats smoked sausage. Cook the sausage until it's browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even browning. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- Using the same skillet, add the finely diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them over medium heat until they become translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-5 minutes. This step enhances the flavors by caramelizing the onions and releasing the garlic's aroma.
- Combine the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, cooked sausage, sautéed onions and garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing mix, milk, and melted butter. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer to Baking Dish
- Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the potato and sausage mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Bake the Dish
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap the moisture and cook evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 60 minutes. After 60 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes. This allows the top to become golden brown and the potatoes to finish cooking.
- Garnish and Serve
- Once the dish is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions just before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful meal!
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving: This dish is best served hot and fresh out of the oven. It makes a perfect main course for dinner and can be complemented with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a family-style serving, place the baking dish directly on the table and let everyone help themselves. Alternatively, you can portion it out onto individual plates.
Storage: If you have any leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before storing. Transfer the leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place the desired amount in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed. You can also reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.