Description
This One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Pasta is a deliciously creamy and smoky dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful smoked sausage, and smoky cheddar cheese with a zesty ranch seasoning. Cooked all in one pot, this comforting pasta meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced
Seasonings & Spices
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Dairy
- 2 cups smoked cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Pantry
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 12 oz penne pasta (or your preferred pasta)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Meats: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and sausage slices, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté Spices: In the same pot, add the ranch seasoning mix, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the bottom of the pot in the spices and release their aroma.
- Simmer Broth and Cook Pasta: Add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the penne pasta and stir to combine. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until tender.
- Combine Ingredients and Finish Sauce: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the cooked chicken and sausage. Add the shredded smoked cheddar cheese and heavy cream, stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Serve: Remove the pot from the heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your creamy, smoky pasta!
Notes
- Use smoked sausage for an enhanced smoky flavor. You may substitute with regular sausage if preferred.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly or let the sauce simmer a bit longer before adding cream and cheese.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh contrast; alternatively, you can use chopped chives or basil.
- Make sure to stir the pasta occasionally while cooking to avoid sticking to the pot.
