Craving a warm, comforting dish that’s packed with flavor? Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a hearty Ranch Potato Casserole that combines crispy potatoes, smoky sausage, melty cheddar, and tangy ranch in a one-pan wonder. Perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, this smoky potato bake is easy to prep and guaranteed to please both kids and adults. With minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction, this creamy ranch casserole will become your go-to comfort meal. Let’s dive into this Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage and savor its cozy charm!
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
- Hearty and Filling: This creamy ranch casserole satisfies with rich, smoky flavors.
- Quick Prep: Ready for the oven in 15 minutes, ideal for busy evenings.
- Crowd-Pleaser: A potluck favorite that kids and adults devour.
- Make-Ahead: Prep the night before for stress-free meals.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup for this smoky potato bake.
Ingredients for Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Here’s what you’ll need for this hearty sausage casserole (serves 6–8, 9×13-inch dish):
For the Casserole:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 cups (200g) shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup (240g) sour cream
- 1 (1 oz) packet dry ranch seasoning mix
- ½ cup (120ml) whole milk
- ¼ cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- 9×13-inch casserole dish
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon or silicone spatula
- Aluminum foil
Ingredient Tips
- Potatoes: Dice russet potatoes evenly for this Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage to ensure even cooking.
- Sausage: Smoked sausage adds depth; turkey or chicken sausage works for a lighter smoky potato bake.
- Cheese: Use full-fat cheddar for a creamy ranch casserole; pre-shredded saves time.
- Sour Cream: Full-fat sour cream enhances richness; Greek yogurt adds tang to this hearty sausage casserole.
- Ranch Seasoning: Don’t skip this for the bold flavor in this creamy ranch casserole.
Directions for Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Let’s make this Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage—a perfect smoky potato bake!
Prep the Oven and Dish
I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray for easy release of this creamy ranch casserole.
Prepare Potatoes and Sausage
I peel and dice 2 lbs potatoes into ½-inch cubes and slice 1 lb smoked sausage into rounds, placing both in a large mixing bowl. I toss them with ¼ cup melted butter for a rich hearty sausage casserole.
Mix the Sauce
In another bowl, I combine 1 can cream of chicken soup, 1 cup sour cream, 1 packet ranch seasoning, ½ cup milk, and 1½ cups cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth for a creamy ranch casserole base.
Combine and Season
I pour the sauce over the potatoes and sausage, stirring to coat evenly. I season with a pinch of salt and pepper, ensuring a flavorful smoky potato bake.
Assemble and Bake
I spread the mixture evenly in the casserole dish, cover with foil, and bake for 40 minutes. I remove the foil, sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup cheese, and bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly for this Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage.
Garnish and Serve
I let the casserole cool slightly, then garnish with 2 tbsp chives (if using) for a vibrant hearty sausage casserole.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55–60 minutes
- Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 6–8 (1 cup per serving)
- Calories: ~450–500 kcal per serving
- Macros per Serving: 35g carbs, 15g protein, 30g fat, 2g fiber
Variations for Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Try these twists on this smoky potato bake:
- Tex-Mex Twist: Add 1 tsp taco seasoning and use Mexican blend cheese for a spicy creamy ranch casserole, inspired by Layla Cooks’ Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in ½ cup frozen peas or broccoli for a colorful hearty sausage casserole.
- Loaded Version: Add ¼ cup crumbled bacon (non-pork options) for a decadent smoky potato bake.
- Vegetarian Swap: Use vegetarian sausage or mushrooms for a meat-free Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in ¼ tsp cayenne for a fiery creamy ranch casserole.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with Layla Cooks’ Cucumber Avocado Salad for a fresh contrast.
- Serve with Layla Cooks’ Mango Coconut Smoothie for a cooling drink.
- Enjoy with Layla Cooks’ No-Bake Pistachio Pudding for a sweet finish.
Storage
I cool the creamy ranch casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For freezing, I wrap portions in foil and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months, labeling with the date. I reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes (covered) or microwave single portions for 2–3 minutes until warm.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Serve this Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage in ramekins with a chive garnish for a cozy smoky potato bake.
- Garnish: Add parsley or a drizzle of ranch dressing for this hearty sausage casserole.
- Pairing: Enjoy with lemonade or Layla Cooks’ Pomegranate Margarita for a refreshing twist.
- Portion Size: 1 cup per person for a hearty main dish.
- Occasions: Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or family gatherings.
FAQs About Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Here are answers to common questions about this dish:
Can I use frozen potatoes?
Yes, diced frozen potatoes work, but fresh potatoes give better texture for this smoky potato bake.
Can I prep it ahead?
Assemble the night before, cover, and refrigerate; bake when ready for a convenient creamy ranch casserole.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt adds tang and works well in this hearty sausage casserole.
Is it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free cream of chicken soup and ranch seasoning for a gluten-free smoky potato bake.
What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
Mix garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley for a homemade creamy ranch casserole seasoning.
More Chicken Recipes
- Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce
- Chicken Cabbage Savory Pirog
- Chicken and Broccoli Baked Alfredo
- Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas
- Mexican Pulled Chicken
Conclusion
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that brings smoky, cheesy goodness to any table. This hearty sausage casserole is easy to make and perfect for busy nights or gatherings. Bake this smoky potato bake, garnish with chives, and enjoy its warm, satisfying flavors!
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage
Ingredients
- 2 lbs russet potatoes peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes
- 1 lb smoked sausage sliced into rounds
- 2 cups 200g shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 10.75 oz can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup 240g sour cream
- 1 1 oz packet dry ranch seasoning mix
- ½ cup 120ml whole milk
- ¼ cup 60g unsalted butter, melted
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives optional, for garnish
Instructions
Prep the Oven and Dish
- I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray for easy release of this creamy ranch casserole.
Prepare Potatoes and Sausage
- I peel and dice 2 lbs potatoes into ½-inch cubes and slice 1 lb smoked sausage into rounds, placing both in a large mixing bowl. I toss them with ¼ cup melted butter for a rich hearty sausage casserole.
Mix the Sauce
- In another bowl, I combine 1 can cream of chicken soup, 1 cup sour cream, 1 packet ranch seasoning, ½ cup milk, and 1½ cups cheddar cheese, stirring until smooth for a creamy ranch casserole base.
Combine and Season
- I pour the sauce over the potatoes and sausage, stirring to coat evenly. I season with a pinch of salt and pepper, ensuring a flavorful smoky potato bake.
Assemble and Bake
- I spread the mixture evenly in the casserole dish, cover with foil, and bake for 40 minutes. I remove the foil, sprinkle with the remaining ½ cup cheese, and bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly for this Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage.
- Garnish and Serve
- I let the casserole cool slightly, then garnish with 2 tbsp chives (if using) for a vibrant hearty sausage casserole.
Notes
- Cut your potatoes evenly to ensure consistent cooking and prevent undercooked bites.
- Use smoked sausage for depth of flavor; turkey or chicken sausage works great too.
- Don’t skip the foil cover during the first bake — it helps the potatoes cook through without drying out the top.
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