This One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken Sausage Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Packed with tender chicken, smoky sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a rich ranch and cheddar sauce, this recipe is comfort food at its finest. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something indulgent.
📋 Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast , diced
- 1 lb smoked sausage , sliced
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
- 1 small onion , diced
- 2 cloves garlic , minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper , to taste
- Chopped parsley , optional (for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken and Sausage
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat .
- Add the diced chicken and sliced sausage to the pot. Cook for 5–7 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and nearly cooked through.
- Stir in the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes , until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute , until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Pasta
- Pour in the chicken broth , heavy cream , and ranch seasoning mix . Stir to combine.
- Add the pasta to the pot, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low .
- Cover the pot and simmer for 10–12 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened slightly.
Step 3: Incorporate the Cheese
- Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Season and Serve
- Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Tips for Success
- Pasta Choice: Penne or rotini works best because their shapes hold the creamy sauce well. You can also use fusilli or farfalle for variety.
- Cheese Options: Use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, or mix in Monterey Jack or mozzarella for extra creaminess.
- Ranch Seasoning Swap: If you don’t have a ranch seasoning packet, make your own by combining 1 tsp garlic powder , 1 tsp onion powder , 1 tsp dried parsley , ½ tsp dried dill , ½ tsp salt , and ¼ tsp black pepper .
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
- Freezing: Freeze portions without the cheese sauce (add fresh cheese after reheating) for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken Sausage Pasta is a game-changer for quick and delicious meals. The smoky sausage adds depth, while the creamy ranch and cheddar sauce brings indulgence to every bite. With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze, making it as practical as it is satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Dive into this cheesy, comforting pasta and let it bring warmth to your table!
⏱ Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: ~30 minutes
🍽 Servings:
6 servings
🔥 Calories (Approximate):
~500 kcal per serving (varies based on portion size and ingredients)
