Description
A comforting and creamy casserole combining smoky sausage, tender hash browns, and a cheesy ranch-flavored sauce, slow-cooked to perfect softness. This easy one-pot meal is ideal for a cozy family dinner or a satisfying meal prep option.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced (any color)
- 1 onion, diced
Cheesy Potato Mixture
- 1 regular size bag of frozen shredded hash browns (about 20 oz)
- ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 can cheddar cheese soup (10.75 oz)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning (approx. 1 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
Instructions
- Sauté sausage and vegetables: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the sliced smoked sausage, bell peppers, and diced onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are softened and aromatic, about 5-7 minutes. This step enhances flavor but can be skipped if desired.
- Transfer to crockpot: Carefully transfer the sautéed sausage and vegetables into the crockpot, spreading them evenly at the base.
- Add potato and dairy mixture: Add the frozen shredded hash browns to the crockpot, then pour in the heavy whipping cream, cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning, and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top.
- Combine all ingredients: Gently stir the mixture in the crockpot to incorporate all ingredients thoroughly and ensure even distribution of the sauce and cheese.
- Cook in crockpot: Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 2 hours or on low for 4 hours. Cook until the potatoes are tender and the cheese has melted together, forming a creamy, cheesy sauce.
- Stir and serve: Before serving, stir the cheesy ranch potatoes and sausage to blend flavors evenly. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty dish.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can transfer the cooked mixture to a baking dish and broil for a few minutes before serving.
- Feel free to swap smoked sausage with chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated; add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
- Adjust ranch seasoning amount to taste or use a homemade blend for a personalized flavor.
- Use gluten-free cheese soup and ranch seasoning if gluten sensitivity is a concern.
