Description
Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage is a comforting and hearty crockpot recipe featuring sautéed smoked sausage, bell peppers, and onions combined with creamy shredded hash browns, ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese soup, and shredded cheese. This easy and flavorful dish requires minimal prep and slow cooks to tender perfection, making it an ideal meal for busy days or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced (any color)
- 1 onion, diced
Potato and Cream Mixture
- 1 regular size bag of frozen shredded hash browns (about 20 oz)
- ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cheddar cheese soup
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
Instructions
- Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the sliced smoked sausage, bell peppers, and diced onion until they are slightly browned and aromatic. This step is optional but highly recommended to enhance the flavors and texture.
- Transfer to Crockpot: Move the sautéed sausage and vegetable mixture into the crockpot to prepare for slow cooking.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the frozen shredded hash browns, heavy whipping cream, cheddar cheese soup, sour cream, ranch seasoning, and shredded cheese into the crockpot. Stir everything well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook: 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 into a creamy, flavorful sauce.
- Serve: Stir the mixture well before serving to ensure even consistency. Serve warm and enjoy this cheesy, savory dish.
Notes
- Sautéing the sausage, peppers, and onion first intensifies the flavor and improves texture.
- You can use any color bell peppers depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream slightly.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- For a spicier version, add some crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables and sausage.
