Name: Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-489501H26M14S
Total time: PT-489501H26M14S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced; 2 bell peppers, sliced; 1 onion, diced; 1 regular size bag of frozen shredded hash browns; ¾ cup heavy whipping cream; 1 can cheddar cheese soup; ½ cup sour cream; 1 packet ranch seasoning; 1 cup shredded cheese

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage Recipe

This recipe is the definition of comfort food — creamy, savory, and loaded with flavor. The smoked sausage adds a delicious, hearty depth, while the ranch seasoning brings a tangy kick that perfectly complements the cheesy potatoes. It’s made in the crockpot, so it’s incredibly convenient and low-effort. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and 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
¾ cup heavy whipping cream
1 can cheddar cheese soup
½ cup sour cream
1 packet ranch seasoning
1 cup shredded cheese

Directions

In a hot skillet, sauté the sliced smoked sausage, bell peppers, and diced onion until slightly browned and aromatic. This step is optional but highly recommended for added flavor.
Transfer the sautéed sausage and vegetables to a crockpot.
Add the frozen shredded hash browns, heavy whipping cream, cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning, and shredded cheese to the crockpot.
Stir everything together until well combined.
Cover and cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 hours, until the potatoes are tender and the cheese sauce is smooth and creamy.
Stir before serving to make sure everything is evenly coated in that cheesy ranch goodness. Serve warm and enjoy.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours (high) or 4 hours (low)
Total Time: 2–4 hours
Servings: 6
Calories: 425 kcal per serving

Variations

Add spice: Stir in a bit of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy version.
Use different cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or Colby for a unique flavor twist.
Add veggies: Mix in corn, peas, or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.
Swap sausage: Use chicken sausage, kielbasa, or even ground beef if you prefer.
Oven method: If you don’t have a crockpot, bake the mixture covered at 375°F (190°C) for about 45–50 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until heated through. For freezer storage, portion the cooled dish into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use light sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, and half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble all ingredients in the crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Cook as directed the next day.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Absolutely. Peel and grate fresh potatoes, then pat them dry before adding to the crockpot.

Do I need to cook the sausage first?

It’s optional, but sautéing enhances the flavor and texture.

Can I use a different type of soup?

Yes, cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup can be substituted for cheddar cheese soup.

How can I prevent it from becoming too runny?

Make sure to measure the cream accurately and avoid adding extra liquid. Cooking uncovered for the last 15 minutes can also help thicken the sauce.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, omit the sausage and add extra vegetables or a plant-based meat alternative.

What type of sausage works best?

Smoked sausage or kielbasa offers the best flavor and texture for this recipe.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and cook a bit longer if using a smaller crockpot.

How can I make it extra cheesy?

Add an extra ½ cup of shredded cheese right before serving and stir until melted.

Conclusion

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. It’s creamy, hearty, and bursting with comforting flavors. Whether you serve it as a main dish or a crowd-pleasing side, this easy crockpot recipe is sure to become a staple in your comfort food rotation.