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Cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage are featured in this delicious and easy recipe.

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage Perfection

This creamy and comforting casserole combines tender potatoes, savory smoked sausage, and a rich, cheesy ranch sauce. It's a crowd-pleasing dish perfect for potlucks, weeknight dinners, or a hearty brunch. Garnish with green onions and bacon for an extra flavorful touch.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs Yukon Gold or red potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 lb smoked sausage kielbasa, andouille, or your favorite
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 4 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional garnishes: chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, paprika, sour cream or Greek yogurt

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Large bowl
  • Large Skillet (oven-safe or cast iron)
  • Medium bowl
  • whisk
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • Spatula or spoon
  • Pot holders

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Peel and cube the potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces.
  5. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until lightly browned and slightly crispy (about 5-7 minutes).
  6. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
  7. Add the seasoned potatoes to the skillet with the sausage fat. Spread in an even layer.
  8. Cook the potatoes over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and brown slightly.
  9. While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the ranch sauce: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, milk, and ranch dressing mix. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed to reach desired consistency.
  10. Pour the creamy ranch sauce over the potatoes in the skillet. Stir gently to coat evenly.
  11. Add the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir it in.
  12. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the potato and sausage mixture.
  13. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
  14. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
  15. Garnish with chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, a sprinkle of paprika, or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional).
  16. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, use an oven-safe skillet or a cast-iron skillet. If you don't have one, transfer the potato mixture to a baking dish before adding the cheese and baking. Don't overcrowd the skillet with potatoes; cook in batches if needed. Adjust seasoning to your taste preferences. This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking; add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven, microwave, or skillet. Try adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. BBQ sauce or buffalo wing sauce can be substituted for the ranch dressing mix for different flavor variations.