Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage is a rich, hearty, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With smoky sausage, colorful bell peppers, creamy cheese sauce, and ranch-seasoned potatoes, this crockpot meal offers comfort and convenience all in one pot. It’s a satisfying dish the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is easy to prepare, incredibly filling, and full of bold, savory flavors. Sautéing the sausage, peppers, and onions adds an extra depth of taste, while the cheesy ranch sauce creates a creamy, indulgent texture. Made with frozen hash browns and pantry staples, it’s a fuss-free recipe that requires minimal prep and yields maximum comfort.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced

• 2 bell peppers, sliced

• 1 onion, diced

• 1 regular-size bag of frozen shredded hash browns

• 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream

• 1 can cheddar cheese soup

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 1 packet ranch seasoning

• 1 cup shredded cheese

directions

1. Sauté the sausage and vegetables (optional but recommended):
   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the sliced smoked sausage, sliced bell peppers, and diced onion until browned and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.

2. Transfer to crockpot:
   Add the cooked sausage mixture to a crockpot. Then add the frozen shredded hash browns, heavy whipping cream, cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning, and shredded cheese.

3. Mix well:
   Stir all ingredients together until evenly combined and the hash browns are coated in the creamy mixture.

4. Cook:
   Cover and cook on high for 2 hours or low for 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the mixture is hot and bubbly.

5. Serve warm:
   Spoon into bowls and enjoy as a hearty main dish or serve alongside eggs for a comforting brunch option.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours on high / 4 hours on low
Total Time: 2–4 hours and 10 minutes
Calories: Approximately 450–500 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy version: Use spicy smoked sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.

• Add vegetables: Mix in chopped broccoli, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition.

• Cheese variety: Try using Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile.

• Bacon addition: Stir in cooked crumbled bacon for an extra smoky bite.

• Make it a breakfast bake: Top with scrambled eggs or crack eggs directly into the mixture and bake the last 15 minutes for a brunch-style dish.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1–2 minutes or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

FAQs

Do I have to sauté the sausage and veggies?

No, but sautéing adds extra flavor and caramelization that enhances the dish.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Yes, but you’ll need to shred them and remove excess moisture with a paper towel before adding.

What kind of sausage works best?

Smoked sausage, kielbasa, or andouille sausage all work well. Choose your preferred flavor.

Can I make this without a crockpot?

Yes. Combine all ingredients in a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 45–55 minutes, or until bubbly and cooked through.

Is there a lighter version?

You can use light sour cream and reduced-fat cheese and cream to reduce calories, though the texture may be slightly different.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended, as the potatoes may become mushy when thawed.

What should I serve with this?

A simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or cornbread complement the richness of this dish well.

Can I use different types of cheese soup?

Yes. Broccoli cheese or nacho cheese soup can be used for a different flavor twist.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Check your ranch seasoning packet and canned soup for gluten-containing ingredients to ensure the dish is gluten-free.

Can I prep this the night before?

Yes, you can assemble everything in the crockpot and refrigerate overnight. Let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before cooking.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage is a creamy, savory, and deeply comforting dish that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying to eat. With the bold flavors of sausage and ranch, and the irresistible texture of tender potatoes and melted cheese, this meal is a guaranteed family favorite. Perfect for potlucks, meal prep, or a cozy night in, it’s comfort food done right.