Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a 9×13 pan with parchment paper or use a large cast iron skillet.
Brown the sausage until fully cooked. Drain and let cool slightly.
In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Stir in cheddar cheese and sausage until evenly distributed.
Add buttermilk and melted butter. Mix gently until a thick, scoopable dough forms.
Drop dough into the pan using a spoon or cookie scoop, letting mounds lightly touch.
Bake 20–24 minutes until deeply golden and set.
Cool 5 minutes, then pull apart and serve warm.