One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe
If you’re looking for a dinner that brings the whole family running to the kitchen, One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Pasta is the dish you need in your life. Creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of smoky, this pasta is packed with juicy chicken, savory sausage, and bold ranch flavor, all cooked together in a single pot for ultimate weeknight convenience. The combination of tender pasta, sharp cheddar, and a hint of heat makes every bite irresistible, while the easy cleanup means you’ll actually want to make it again and again. This is the kind of meal that transforms ordinary evenings into something special, and trust me, you’ll find yourself craving it long after the last forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how a handful of simple, everyday ingredients can come together for such a flavor-packed meal. Each item in this recipe plays a unique role, building layers of taste and texture that make One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Pasta truly unforgettable.
- Chicken breasts: Bite-sized pieces soak up all the smoky, creamy flavors and keep the dish hearty and satisfying.
- Smoked sausage: Adds a savory, robust depth and that signature smoky note that sets this pasta apart.
- Olive oil: Gives everything a silky start and helps brown the chicken and sausage beautifully.
- Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and a lovely base flavor that ties everything together.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings a fragrant kick that shines in every bite.
- Ranch seasoning mix: The key to bold, tangy, herby goodness in every forkful.
- Smoked paprika: Deepens the smoky undertones and brings a gorgeous reddish hue.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a touch of heat, this gives a gentle spicy spark.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist and flavorful while letting you control the saltiness.
- Diced tomatoes: Canned tomatoes lend juiciness, color, and a little acidity to balance the richness.
- Penne pasta: The perfect shape for holding onto that luscious, cheesy sauce.
- Heavy cream: Brings the creamy, dreamy texture that makes this pasta so indulgent.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Melts right in for a gooey, tangy kick—don’t skimp on the cheese!
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for rounding out and heightening all the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of green makes for a lovely, fresh finish and a pop of color.
How to Make One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Pasta
Step 1: Brown the Chicken and Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add your chicken pieces and let them cook for about 5 minutes, just until they start taking on some golden color. Next, toss in the smoked sausage slices and continue cooking for another 3 minutes. This step is key: browning the meats not only builds flavor, but also helps lock in their juices so they stay tender.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add your diced onion and garlic right into the pot with the browned meats. Sauté everything together until the onion turns soft and translucent, and the garlic smells amazing—about 2 minutes. These aromatics are the flavor foundation for your One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Pasta, setting the tone for the whole dish.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Now it’s time to layer in even more flavor. Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if you like things a little spicy. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (don’t drain them—those juices are gold!). Give everything a good stir, scraping the bottom of the pot to bring up any browned bits—those are pure flavor! Bring the mixture up to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Once the pot is bubbling, add the penne pasta right in. Give it a stir to submerge all the noodles, then reduce the heat to medium, cover, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed into a saucy, savory base.
Step 5: Make It Creamy and Cheesy
When the pasta is perfectly cooked, stir in the heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Watch as the cheese melts and everything turns irresistibly creamy! Take a moment to taste and then season with salt and pepper as needed. If you want to sneak in some veggies, now’s the time to add spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra color and nutrition.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Right before serving, sprinkle the finished pasta with chopped fresh parsley. This not only adds a bright, herby note, but also makes your One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Pasta look gorgeous and inviting. Dish it up while it’s piping hot, and get ready for happy faces all around the table!
How to Serve One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Pasta
Garnishes
A generous sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley is always a good call, but you can get creative with your garnishes. Try a handful of extra cheddar, a dash of smoked paprika for color, or even a few sliced green onions for a zippy finish. These little touches add both flavor and flair to your One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Pasta.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta can absolutely stand alone, but it also plays well with others! A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is a perfect counterpoint to the creamy sauce. Warm, crusty bread or garlic knots are fantastic for mopping up every last bit. For a lighter option, some simple roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli make a colorful, wholesome addition.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t be shy about showing off your masterpiece! Serve your One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Pasta in a big family-style bowl for everyone to dig in, or try plating individual portions with an extra swirl of cream and a scattering of parsley. For parties, portion the pasta into ramekins or mini skillets for a cozy, rustic vibe that wows your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), simply transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It will keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors deepen as it sits, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, let your One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Pasta cool completely, then divide it into freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, as this helps preserve the creamy texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your pasta again, gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce if needed. Stir well and heat until everything is creamy and piping hot—just as comforting as when it was first made.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Penne works beautifully because it holds onto the sauce, but any short, sturdy pasta like rotini, rigatoni, or even shells will work well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time and add a splash more broth if needed.
What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
No ranch packet? No problem! You can whip up a quick substitute by mixing dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still bring those beloved herby vibes to your One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Pasta.
Is there a dairy-free option?
For a dairy-free version, substitute your favorite plant-based cream and cheese alternatives. The sauce may be a little less rich, but you’ll still get plenty of that smoky, savory goodness. Just double-check your sausage, as some varieties contain dairy.
Can I add vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is super flexible, so stir in baby spinach, diced bell peppers, or broccoli florets during the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll add color, nutrition, and a little extra freshness to your One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Pasta.
How spicy is the dish?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle heat, but you can always adjust the amount to suit your taste. For a completely mild version, just leave them out. If you like things fiery, feel free to add an extra pinch!
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a comforting, flavor-packed meal that’s easy to throw together and sure to please a crowd, give One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Pasta a try. I promise, it’ll quickly earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation—just be ready for everyone to ask for seconds!
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One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Pasta is a creamy, flavorful skillet meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken, smoky sausage, and penne pasta are cooked together in a savory blend of ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, and diced tomatoes, then finished with sharp cheddar cheese for a rich, comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
Protein and Dairy
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Pantry and Spices
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned on all sides.
- Add the sausage: Stir in the sliced smoked sausage and cook for an additional 3 minutes to brown and warm the sausage, allowing its smoky flavor to infuse the dish.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and sausage. Sauté until the onions soften and become translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add seasonings and liquids: Stir in the ranch seasoning mix, smoked paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes, stirring to combine.
- Cook the pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Reduce the heat to medium, cover the skillet, and simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish with cream and cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
- Season and garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot.
Notes
- You can substitute Monterey Jack or Colby cheese for a milder flavor.
- For added veggies, stir in spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli at the end of cooking to incorporate extra nutrients and color.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to better control the saltiness of the dish.
- If you prefer a spicier meal, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 1180 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 51 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 34 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg
