Nothing says comfort quite like a bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven, especially when the crispness of fall is in the air. Loaded Ranch Sausage Casserole has become a go-to in our home during the cooler months. It’s hearty, flavorful, and brings everyone to the table fast.
This recipe was inspired by the savory breakfasts I shared with my grandmother growing up, always full of warmth, laughter, and something baking in the oven. Over time, I gave her rustic sausage casserole a seasonal twist with layers of tender potatoes, seasoned sausage, creamy ranch, and melty cheese.
It’s not just a hit at family dinners but also a reader favorite on Fresh Leaf Recipes because it’s incredibly easy to make, uses familiar ingredients, and tastes like it came from a cozy country kitchen.
Whether you’re baking for a weekend brunch, meal-prepping for the week, or just want to serve something that makes people feel instantly at home, this Loaded Ranch Sausage Casserole never disappoints. Let’s get into how to make it, keep it moist, and even how to tweak it for dietary preferences.
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Loaded Ranch Sausage Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Hearty and comforting, this casserole brings together seasoned sausage, creamy ranch-spiced eggs, hash browns, and melty cheddar for the ultimate cool-weather crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken or beef sausage (seasoned)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups frozen shredded hash browns (thawed)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing
- Optional: 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- Optional: 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms
- Optional: 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat. Add bell peppers or mushrooms if using and sauté until soft.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In the greased baking dish, layer the hash browns, cooked sausage, shredded cheese, and green onions.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the ingredients in the dish and gently shake to distribute.
- Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until golden and the center is fully set.
- Let rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
To make ahead, assemble and refrigerate overnight. For a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage and load up on mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. Add a streusel-style topping of buttered cracker crumbs for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish comes together with everyday staples you likely already have on hand.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken or beef sausage (seasoned)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups frozen shredded hash browns (thawed)
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for greasing
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
- 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper for a spicy kick
For another cozy one-pan recipe idea, check out our Tomato Soup Grilled Cheese Casserole and Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the oven and dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Brown the sausage
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until fully browned. Drain any excess fat. If you’re adding bell peppers or mushrooms, sauté them alongside the sausage.
3. Mix the eggs
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the casserole
In the prepared baking dish, layer hash browns, cooked sausage, shredded cheese, and green onions. Pour the egg mixture over everything and gently shake the pan to ensure it distributes evenly.
5. Bake until golden
Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is golden brown. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.
For another hot and cheesy delight, check out this Bang Bang Chicken Bites recipe.
Tips for a Perfect Casserole Every Time
- Let it rest: Allow the casserole to cool for at least 10 minutes. This helps it set, making it easier to slice.
- Even layering: Spread the ingredients evenly so the eggs cook uniformly.
- Cheese matters: Use freshly grated cheese for a creamier melt.
- Avoid overbaking: Check for doneness by gently shaking the pan, if the center is jiggly, give it a few more minutes.
Pro tip: If you love easy oven-bakes, don’t miss our Spicy Ramen Lasagna and Awesome Blossom Onion Bites.
Variations to Try
Gluten-Free Version:
Ensure the ranch seasoning mix and sausage are labeled gluten-free. Swap hash browns for sweet potatoes or cubed russet potatoes if preferred.
Add a Streusel Topping:
Try a savory streusel: combine crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top before baking for a crunchy finish.
Make it Vegetarian:
Use a plant-based sausage alternative and load up on mushrooms, spinach, and bell peppers for flavor and texture.
Low-Dairy Option:
Use plant-based cheese and milk alternatives, like oat milk or cashew cheese, for a lighter version.
If casseroles are your favorite format, you’ll also love this comforting Gnocchi Soup Recipe and our cozy One-Pan Chicken and Chorizo.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storage:
Cool the casserole completely before covering it with foil or transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
Portion the cooled casserole into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
For best results, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual servings for 1–2 minutes.
Bonus tip: This reheats beautifully, making it a great addition to any meal prep rotation. Pair it with a fresh salad or a cup of Pumpkin Soup in Mini Pumpkins for a balanced fall meal.
FAQs about Loaded Ranch Sausage Casserole
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, let it sit at room temp for 10–15 minutes before baking.
What’s the best sausage to use?
We love a seasoned chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a flavorful, leaner option.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely. Bell peppers, spinach, onions, or mushrooms add color and nutrients without changing the core flavor.
How do I know when it’s fully baked?
The center should be firm and not jiggly. A knife inserted should come out mostly clean.
Conclusion
Loaded Ranch Sausage Casserole is a cozy, flavorful, and flexible dish that’s easy enough for a weeknight and satisfying enough for brunch guests. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the tasty twists, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Looking for more savory comfort food? Don’t miss our Dirty Martini Pasta and Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Ring, both are showstoppers in their own right.