Ultimate Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage Casserole
This Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy potatoes, smoky sausage, tangy ranch dressing, and gooey cheese into a symphony of flavors. Easy to prepare and customizable, it's perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Large bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Peeler
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Oven
- Strainer or colander
Ingredients
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
- Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain well.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until lightly browned and heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, sour cream, ranch dressing, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked potatoes and sautéed sausage to the bowl with the creamy ranch sauce. Gently toss to coat everything evenly.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Pour the potato and sausage mixture into the prepared dish and spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top of the potato mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley (optional).
Notes
For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to prevent lumps in the sauce. Don't overcook the potatoes; they should be fork-tender but not mushy. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or Colby jack. The casserole can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking; add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.