Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage – Hearty & Easy [2025]

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage is the ultimate comfort food casserole — creamy, cheesy, smoky, and packed with bold ranch flavor. This easy, one-pan dinner brings together tender potatoes, juicy smoked sausage, and melty cheese in a rich ranch-seasoned sauce. It’s quick to prep, feeds a crowd, and satisfies even the hungriest eaters. Perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or hearty weekend meals!

Ingredients

  • 1 (14 oz) package smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 2 lbs baby potatoes, quartered (or use russet potatoes, diced)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 packet dry ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add the sliced smoked sausage and stir to combine.
  4. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
  5. Remove foil, stir gently, and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream and milk until smooth.
  7. Pour the sour cream mixture over the potatoes and sausage. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top.
  8. Return to oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, if desired.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Bake Time: 55 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

  • Swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for different cheese flavors
  • Add chopped bell peppers or onions for extra veggies
  • Use turkey sausage or kielbasa instead of pork
  • Mix in cooked, crumbled bacon for added richness
  • Top with crushed buttery crackers before final bake for a crispy topping

Storage and Reheating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
  • Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through
  • Freeze individual portions for up to 1 month
  • Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to keep it creamy

FAQs

Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, frozen diced or hash brown-style potatoes work well — just thaw first and reduce initial baking time slightly.

Is this recipe spicy?
Nope — it’s rich and savory, but you can add hot sauce or chili flakes for heat.

Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Assemble everything up to the final cheese topping, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

What sausage works best?
Any fully cooked smoked sausage works — pork, turkey, or beef.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage is a crowd-pleasing casserole that checks every box: quick, hearty, flavorful, and comforting. With gooey cheese, smoky sausage, and ranch-seasoned potatoes, it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Whether it’s a family meal or a potluck hit, this dish delivers big taste with minimal effort!

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