Name: Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-491871H37M13S
Total time: PT-491871H37M13S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs (680g) baby potatoes or russet potatoes, chopped into 1-inch pieces; 14 oz (400g) smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into coins; 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt; 1/2 cup milk (optional, for creamier sauce); 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter; 1/2 cup chopped green onions or chives (optional); Salt & pepper, to taste; Crumbled cooked bacon (optional)

This Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage dish is the kind of hearty, comforting meal I love to throw together when I want something warm, creamy, and satisfying with minimal fuss. Whether baked in the oven or simmered in a slow cooker, it’s packed with cheesy goodness, smoky sausage, and savory ranch flavor. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser and perfect for feeding the whole family.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1.5 lbs (680g) baby potatoes or russet potatoes, chopped into 1-inch pieces

14 oz (400g) smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into coins

1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (or homemade)

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

1/2 cup milk (optional, for creamier sauce)

2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

1/2 cup chopped green onions or chives (optional)

Salt & pepper, to taste

Crumbled cooked bacon (optional but awesome)

Directions

Oven Method:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or large sheet pan.

In a large bowl, I combine potatoes, sausage, ranch seasoning, oil or butter, and a bit of salt and pepper. I toss everything until it’s well coated.

I spread the mixture into the dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 30 minutes.

After removing the foil, I stir the mixture and bake for another 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and golden.

Then I stir in the sour cream and sprinkle the cheddar on top. I return it to the oven for 5–10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.

I finish it off with green onions and bacon crumbles for that perfect final touch.

Crock Pot Method:

I add the potatoes, sausage, ranch seasoning, oil, and a splash of milk or broth into the Crock Pot and mix it all up.

I cover and cook it on Low for 4–5 hours or High for 2–3 hours until the potatoes are soft.

About 15–20 minutes before serving, I stir in the sour cream and cheddar.

I let it sit until the cheese melts, then top it off with green onions and bacon.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time:

Oven: 45–55 minutes at 400°F

Crock Pot: 4–5 hours on Low or 2–3 hours on High

Variations

I love customizing this dish with what I’ve got on hand. Here are some fun twists:

I add broccoli or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.

A sprinkle of garlic or onion powder deepens the flavor.

Swapping cheddar for pepper jack or Colby gives it a new cheesy personality.

I drizzle in hot sauce or red pepper flakes when I want a little heat.

Storage/Reheating

I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.

To reheat, I use the microwave for convenience, the oven for crispiness, or a skillet if I want a quick stovetop option.

I avoid freezing it after adding sour cream because the texture can change—this dish is best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

FAQs

How do I make it less rich?

I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and skip the extra cheese if I want a lighter version.

Can I prep it ahead?

Yes, I often prep the ingredients the night before and store them separately. Then I just mix and cook when ready.

What’s the best sausage to use?

I usually go for smoked sausage or kielbasa, but chicken sausage works well too.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Sure—I swap the sausage for vegetarian sausage or roasted veggies like mushrooms or zucchini.

How do I make it spicier?

I add hot sauce, crushed red pepper flakes, or use a spicy sausage like andouille for an extra kick.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage recipe is one of my go-to comfort meals. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and totally satisfying. Whether I bake it or slow cook it, the result is always delicious. I keep this recipe close whenever I need something cozy, cheesy, and guaranteed to make everyone happy.

📖 Recipe:

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes & Smoked Sausage

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes (max, oven) or 5 hours 15 minutes (max, Crock Pot)
Yield: Serves 4 to 6
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A hearty and comforting one-pan meal made with crispy potatoes, smoky sausage, creamy ranch-seasoned sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs (680g) baby potatoes or russet potatoes, chopped into 1-inch pieces

14 oz (400g) smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into coins

1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

1/2 cup milk (optional, for creamier sauce)

2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter

1/2 cup chopped green onions or chives (optional)

Salt & pepper, to taste

Crumbled cooked bacon (optional)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or large sheet pan.
In a large bowl, combine potatoes, sausage, ranch seasoning, oil or butter, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat well.
Spread the mixture into the baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes.
Remove foil, stir mixture, and bake for another 15–20 minutes until potatoes are tender and golden.
Stir in sour cream and sprinkle cheddar cheese on top. Return to oven for 5–10 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Top with green onions and bacon crumbles if using, and serve hot.
For Crock Pot method: Add potatoes, sausage, ranch seasoning, oil, and optional milk to slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or High for 2–3 hours until potatoes are tender.
About 15–20 minutes before serving, stir in sour cream and cheddar. Let cheese melt, then top with green onions and bacon.