There’s something deeply comforting about layers of thinly sliced potatoes bubbling in a creamy, ranch-infused sauce. This dish, Ranch Scalloped Potatoes with Sausage, is one I return to again and again, especially when the crisp fall air starts to creep in. The rich flavors, golden top, and savory sausage make it a family favorite and a reader request every season. Today, we’ll walk through how to make this cozy dish perfectly, even if it’s your first time cooking scalloped potatoes. From the ingredients to clever tips and delicious variations, this guide has everything you need to make it a dinnertime win.
The Cozy Inspiration Behind This Favorite
My love for this Ranch Scalloped Potatoes with Sausage recipe began with my grandmother’s cooking. Her scalloped potatoes were legendary at Sunday dinners, thin layers of potatoes in a creamy béchamel with just the right touch of cheese. No matter what was going on in life, those potatoes brought everyone to the table.
Years later, I found myself in a small-town diner kitchen in Vermont during fall. The leaves were turning, and comfort food was in high demand. We were experimenting with loaded casseroles, and that’s when I added sausage and a touch of ranch seasoning to the traditional dish. It was an instant hit.
That little twist took something classic and made it unforgettable. Smoky sausage gave it depth, while ranch seasoning brought in creamy, herby notes that lifted the dish without overpowering it. Ever since, Ranch Scalloped Potatoes with Sausage has been a staple for holiday tables, chilly weeknights, and anyone craving the taste of home.
You’ll find similar comfort in meals like Neiman Marcus Chicken Casserole and the High Protein Hamburger Helper, both reader-loved one-pan wonders.
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Ranch Scalloped Potatoes with Sausage
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Creamy, herby, and full of savory sausage flavor, this ranch scalloped potatoes dish is a comforting twist on a classic casserole, perfect for chilly nights and festive gatherings.
Ingredients
- 6 medium Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 pound sausage (chicken or turkey sausage also works)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Optional: 1/2 cup cooked spinach or kale
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated parmesan for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook sausage until browned and crumbled. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Sauté chopped onion in the same skillet until soft and golden. Set aside with the sausage.
- In a saucepan, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Stir in ranch seasoning and simmer until thickened. Add 1 cup of cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
- In the baking dish, layer potatoes, sausage-onion mix, and sauce. Repeat layers, finishing with sauce. Top with remaining cheddar and optional parmesan.
- Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Use a mandoline for even potato slices. This dish can be assembled ahead and refrigerated before baking. Resting helps it set and slice cleanly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients List
Before we dive into the how-to, here’s what you’ll need:
- 6 medium Yukon gold or russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 pound sausage (chicken or turkey sausage also works great)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup cooked spinach or kale
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan for topping
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and prep:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the sausage:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned and crumbled. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
3. Sauté the onion:
In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion until soft and golden, about 5–7 minutes. Set aside with the sausage.
4. Make the sauce:
In a saucepan, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until it forms a roux. Slowly add milk and cream while whisking. Stir in ranch seasoning. Simmer until slightly thickened, then stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese until melted.
5. Layer the casserole:
In the prepared dish, start layering: potatoes, sausage-onion mix, sauce. Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, finishing with a generous layer of sauce. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and optional parmesan on top.
6. Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
7. Cool and serve:
Let it rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if you’d like.
This cozy dish pairs beautifully with a fresh salad like the Green Goddess Chicken Salad or a side of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes.
Tips for Success
- Choose the right potatoes: Yukon Golds give a creamy bite, while Russets are starchier and fluffier. Either works, but try not to mix both types.
- Slice evenly: Use a mandoline or food processor for even 1/8-inch slices to ensure consistent baking.
- Don’t skip the foil: Covering keeps moisture in for tender potatoes before crisping up the top.
- Let it rest: Like lasagna, this dish firms up as it cools, making it easier to slice and serve.
For more comfort-driven ideas, the One-Pan Chicken and Chorizo delivers similar rich flavors.
Easy Variations
Gluten-Free Ranch Scalloped Potatoes with Sausage:
Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the roux and ensure your ranch mix is certified gluten-free.
Lighter version:
Substitute turkey sausage, use low-fat milk, and skip the heavy cream. You can also reduce cheese to 1 cup total if desired.
Extra cheesy:
Add a mozzarella layer or blend in gouda for a gooey pull.
Streusel topping twist:
Want a quirky Southern finish? Mix 1/2 cup breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese for a crunchy top.
Add veggies:
Sneak in thin layers of spinach, kale, or sautéed mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
You could even serve this with something unexpected like Dump and Bake Alfredo or alongside Juicy Baked Chicken Bites for a protein-packed dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm or microwave individual portions.
Freezer:
Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat covered in oven until bubbly.
Make-ahead tip:
Assemble a day in advance and refrigerate unbaked. Bake when ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Absolutely. Just slice or crumble and skip the browning step.
2. Can I substitute fresh herbs for ranch mix?
Yes! Use a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, dill, chives, and parsley for a fresh take.
3. Why are my potatoes still firm after baking?
They may be sliced too thick, or your oven temp may be running cool. Use thin, even slices for best results.
4. What cheese works best besides cheddar?
Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or smoked gouda all melt beautifully and add great flavor.
Final Thoughts
Ranch Scalloped Potatoes with Sausage is comfort in a casserole dish. Whether you’re serving guests or prepping a cozy family meal, this recipe hits all the right notes, creamy, herby, and just indulgent enough. Its versatility makes it ideal for seasonal gatherings or busy weeknights, and with the variations and make-ahead options, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser.
For more hearty recipes that warm the soul, try this White Lasagna Recipe or explore our High Protein Hamburger Helper to keep the cozy dinners going.