Cheesy Ranch Potatoes Sausage

Category: Dinner Ideas That Actually Work

Cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage create the ultimate comfort meal. Tender diced potatoes are mixed with savory smoked sausage, tangy ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, onion, and garlic, then baked until creamy and golden. Browning the sausage first deepens the flavor, while a finishing sprinkle of green onions adds color and freshness. With its hearty layers of cheese and potatoes, this main dish is a satisfying and warming choice for family dinners or gatherings. Every bite delivers a pleasing mix of smokiness, creamy richness, and zesty ranch.

Clare Recipes
Created By Lily Chen
Updated on Thu, 12 Jun 2025 20:09:45 GMT
A bowl of cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage. Save
A bowl of cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage. | lilicooks.com

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is the comfort food every home cook dreams about creamy potatoes, smoky sausage and bold ranch flavors bubbling under a golden layer of melted cheese It is a crowd pleaser for cozy nights or a satisfying family dinner that fills the house with the best kind of aroma

The first time I made this my family could not stop talking about how it tasted like the ultimate comfort food casserole It is now our go to when we want everyone at the table laughing and coming back for seconds

Ingredients

  • Monon Meats Smoked Sausage 1 lb thinly sliced: delivers that smoky savory punch Opt for high quality sausage with visible marbling for best flavor
  • Potatoes 2 lbs diced: creamy russet or Yukon gold work best Select firm smooth potatoes without green spots
  • Shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup: gives the dish its melty indulgence Use freshly shredded for better melt
  • Ranch dressing mix 1 packet: delivers signature tanginess Look for low sodium if preferred
  • Milk 1/2 cup: adds creaminess Whole milk offers the richest texture
  • Melted butter 1/4 cup: enhances the richness Use real butter for full flavor
  • Onion 1 finely diced: brings sweetness and depth Yellow onion is classic but sweet onions also work
  • Garlic 2 cloves minced: boosts aroma and flavor Choose plump and firm cloves
  • Salt and pepper to taste: essential for brightening all flavors Use fresh cracked pepper if possible
  • Chopped green onions 1/2 cup for garnish: adds color and a fresh bite Always slice just before serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 375 degrees F 190 degrees C and let it fully preheat This ensures even baking and the perfect golden top
Brown the Sausage:
Place the sliced sausage in a large skillet over medium heat Cook until the pieces are browned and start to crisp at the edges stirring occasionally Remove them to a plate This builds flavor and keeps the sausage juicy
Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the same skillet over medium heat Stir frequently and cook until the onions are translucent and soft about 5 minutes This step mellows the garlic and sweetens the onion making a flavorful base
Mix Everything Together:
In a big mixing bowl combine the diced potatoes browned sausage sautéed onion and garlic shredded cheese ranch mix milk and melted butter Sprinkle in salt and pepper Toss everything until well coated This helps the ranch and cheese reach every bite
Fill and Bake the Dish:
Spoon the mixture into a greased baking dish Use a spatula to spread it evenly so it cooks uniformly Cover tightly with aluminum foil
Bake in the Center of the Oven:
Slide the dish onto the middle rack Bake covered for 60 minutes to steam and soften the potatoes
Uncover and Brown the Top:
Remove the foil and return the dish to the oven Bake another 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the top is golden brown This gives you creamy insides with a crisp cheesy crust
Finish and Garnish:
Scatter chopped green onions all over right before serving Their freshness brightens every bite
A plate of cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage. Save
A plate of cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage. | lilicooks.com

Cheddar cheese is my favorite in this recipe since it stretches and browns so beautifully I always remember my kids fighting over who gets the corner with the most golden crispy bits This casserole truly brings everyone together at our table

Storage tips

Cool leftovers completely before covering and storing in the fridge Use an airtight container and your cheesy sausage potatoes will keep well for up to four days For longer storage transfer portions to freezer safe containers and freeze for up to two months Reheat gently in the microwave or oven stirring halfway through to ensure even warmth

Ingredient substitutions

If you are out of smoked sausage swap in kielbasa or diced ham for another smoky meat twist Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese both work in place of cheddar For a lighter dish use half the butter and sub in Greek yogurt for half the milk

A delicious cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage dish. Save
A delicious cheesy ranch potatoes and smoked sausage dish. | lilicooks.com

Serving suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal This dish also shines at brunch topped with a runny egg on each serving Fresh fruit or warm dinner rolls are great on the side if you want to stretch it for more people

Cultural context

Cheesy casseroles like this have roots in American home cooking where stretching simple ingredients into hearty meals is a tradition in many kitchens Smoked sausage and ranch are classic Midwest favorites making this dish taste both familiar and special at once

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute smoked sausage with kielbasa, chicken sausage, or turkey sausage. Adjust the flavors to your preference and ensure the sausage is fully cooked and sliced thinly.

→ What's the best potato variety for this dish?

Yukon Gold or russet potatoes work well because they hold their shape during baking while becoming tender and creamy.

→ Can I make this meal ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish and cover tightly. Refrigerate for up to a day, then bake as directed when ready to serve.

→ Is there a way to make it less rich?

For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese, less butter, and low-fat milk. These swaps still offer great flavor and texture.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for best results.

→ Can I add vegetables for variety?

Absolutely! Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli with the potatoes for extra flavor, texture, and color.

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes Smoked Sausage

Smoked sausage, potatoes, cheddar, and ranch seasoning come together in a hearty baked dish.

Preparation Time
20 min
Cooking Time
75 min
Overall Time
95 min
Created By: Lily Chen

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Moderate

Cuisine Type: American

Output: 6 Serves (1 baking dish)

Dietary Options: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

01 1 lb smoked sausage, thinly sliced
02 2 lbs potatoes, diced
03 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
04 1 packet ranch dressing mix
05 1/2 cup milk
06 1/4 cup melted butter
07 1 onion, finely diced
08 2 cloves garlic, minced
09 Salt and pepper, to taste
10 1/2 cup chopped green onions, for garnish

Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 02

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the smoked sausage slices until fully cooked. Set them aside.

Step 03

Using the same skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they become translucent.

Step 04

In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, cooked sausage, sautéed onion and garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing mix, milk, and melted butter. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 05

Transfer this mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 06

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes.

Step 07

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.

Step 08

Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy the delicious and hearty meal!

Allergy Information

Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
  • Contains dairy (cheddar cheese, milk, and butter).
  • Contains alliums (onion and garlic).

Nutritional Information (per serving)

These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
  • Calories: 420.5
  • Fats: 25.4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 37.3 g
  • Proteins: 15.9 g