Ingredients
Baby Potatoes: With their thin skin and tender, buttery interior, baby potatoes are perfect for roasting. They hold their shape well and add a delightful texture to the casserole.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar brings a creamy, cheesy richness that binds the flavors together. Opt for sharp cheddar if you like a more intense cheese flavor.
Ranch Seasoning: The quintessential ingredient for ranch flavor! It lends a garlicky, herbaceous note that elevates the entire dish.
Sour Cream: Creamy, tangy, and a classic match for ranch, sour cream creates a luscious texture in the sauce.
Chicken Broth: Adding a bit of chicken broth gives the bake a creamy base while keeping the mixture light.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that let the flavors of the other ingredients shine.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a baking dish generously with cooking spray or a light coat of oil. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Step 2: Prepare Ingredients
Slice the Smoked Sausage and Potatoes: Cut the sausage into 1/2-inch slices, and halve the baby potatoes. Keeping the slices even ensures everything cooks evenly.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced sausage, halved potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, sour cream, and chicken broth. Stir well until everything is coated in the creamy mixture.
Step 4: Season the Mixture
Add salt and pepper to taste. Depending on the saltiness of your sausage and broth, adjust accordingly.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to allow even cooking.
Step 6: Bake with Foil
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. This step ensures the potatoes cook through and the flavors meld.
Step 7: Uncover and Finish Baking
After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes. This gives the top a deliciously golden, cheesy crust while ensuring the potatoes are fully tender.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the bake sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. This makes it easier to portion and allows the flavors to settle.
