Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta
Creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavor, this Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Tender chicken, savory sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta are coated in a rich Pepper Jack cheese sauce with just the right amount of spice. It’s an easy one-pan dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings!
Ingredients
- 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced (or your favorite sausage)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced chicken. Season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and fully cooked.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add the uncooked pasta, stirring to coat. Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the Pepper Jack cheese and Parmesan cheese a handful at a time until melted and smooth.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir until everything is evenly coated in the creamy cheese sauce. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Tips
- For extra heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Substitute smoked sausage, chicken sausage, or spicy Italian sausage for a different flavor.
- Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a splash of chicken broth or milk before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture.
Enjoy this rich, cheesy pasta with warm garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal!