Description
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage is a hearty and comforting casserole dish featuring tender smoked sausage, colorful bell peppers, and onions mixed with creamy shredded hash browns baked in a rich cheese and ranch-flavored sauce. Perfect for a satisfying family meal, this recipe combines the ease of slow cooker preparation with bold flavors for a warm and filling dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bag frozen shredded hash browns (regular size, about 24 oz)
Sauce and Seasoning
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cheddar cheese soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning (approximately 1 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
Instructions
- Sauté the Sausage and Veggies: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage, bell peppers, and diced onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is slightly browned and the vegetables are fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add to Crockpot: Transfer the sautéed sausage, peppers, and onions into the crockpot. Next, add the frozen shredded hash browns on top.
- Mix Everything: Pour in the heavy whipping cream, cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, and sprinkle the ranch seasoning over the mixture. Add the shredded cheese last. Use a spoon or spatula to thoroughly combine all ingredients until well mixed.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 hours. Cook until the hash browns are cooked through and tender, and the cheese sauce is creamy and bubbling.
- Serve: Stir the casserole before serving to evenly distribute the ingredients. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, cheesy, and flavorful comfort food.
Notes
- You can use any type of smoked sausage such as kielbasa, Andouille, or Polish sausage depending on your preference.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños during the sauté step.
- Make sure to stir the mixture well before serving to blend all the flavors together.
- This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated; just reheat gently before serving.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the heavy cream by 1/4 cup or add more shredded cheese.
