This one-pan wonder brings together hearty potatoes, smoky sausage, creamy ranch flavor, and a golden layer of melted cheddar. It’s comfort food at its best—easy, filling, and irresistibly cheesy. Whether I’m feeding a hungry crowd or craving a no-fuss weeknight meal, this casserole-style bake never disappoints. Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage Bake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish balances convenience with bold flavor. Everything bakes in one pan—fewer dishes, less prep, and maximum payoff. The combination of creamy ranch, sharp cheddar, and savory sausage tucked between crispy-tender potatoes hits all the right notes. It’s a meal that feels indulgent but comes together with simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb smoked sausage, sliced (≈ 450 g)
2 lbs baby potatoes (washed, halved or quartered as needed) (≈ 900 g)
1 packet ranch seasoning mix (≈ 1 oz / 28 g)
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (≈ 170–180 g)
½ cup sour cream (≈ 120 ml)
1 Tbsp olive oil (≈ 15 ml)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Directions

I start by preheating the oven to 400 °F (≈ 200 °C).
In a large mixing bowl, I toss the halved or quartered baby potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and the ranch seasoning mix until every piece is well-coated.
Next, I stir in the sour cream and half of the cheddar cheese, mixing gently to avoid breaking up the potatoes.
Then I fold in the sliced smoked sausage.
I transfer the whole mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
I bake the dish for 30 to 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the top is slightly browned.
I remove the dish from the oven, sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top, and return it to bake for another 5 to 10 minutes—just enough to melt the cheese into a bubbly layer.
After a quick 5-minute rest, I top it with chopped parsley and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 hearty servings.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

I sometimes swap the smoked sausage for kielbasa or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
Red or Yukon gold potatoes work well too—just make sure to cut them small enough for even cooking.
For a spicy twist, I add a pinch of crushed red pepper or mix in some chopped jalapeños.
When I want extra veggies, I toss in chopped bell peppers or broccoli florets before baking.
For a lighter version, I go with reduced-fat cheese and light sour cream.

Storage/Reheating

Leftovers keep beautifully. I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I use the microwave for convenience or pop them back into the oven at 350 °F until warmed through. A splash of water or an extra sprinkle of cheese before reheating helps revive the creamy texture.

FAQs

How do I keep the potatoes from browning too quickly?

If I notice the top browning too fast before the potatoes are fully tender, I loosely cover the dish with foil until the final cheese melt.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! I often assemble the dish ahead, cover it, and refrigerate. When it’s time to bake, I just allow a few extra minutes in the oven.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

I prefer fresh baby potatoes for best texture, but if I’m in a pinch, thawed frozen diced potatoes work—just reduce baking time slightly and keep an eye on doneness.

What’s the best type of cheese for this recipe?

Cheddar is my go-to for its sharp, melty goodness, but I’ve also tried Monterey Jack and a cheddar-Mozzarella blend for extra gooeyness.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

As long as the ranch seasoning mix and smoked sausage are certified gluten-free, the whole dish is naturally gluten-free. I always check labels just to be safe.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage Bake is one of those reliable recipes I keep coming back to. It’s simple, satisfying, and always a hit with family and guests alike. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s exactly the kind of cozy dish I turn to when I want something hearty without the hassle.