When the day has been long and your energy’s running low, there’s nothing more satisfying than a one-pot wonder that’s big on flavor and easy on cleanup. This creamy, smoky chicken and sausage pasta dish brings together bold ranch seasoning, rich cheddar cheese, and hearty pasta—all simmered together in one pan. The result is a soul-warming, family-friendly dinner that tastes like comfort in a bowl.
This meal is perfect for busy weeknights or low-effort weekend dinners. The chicken gives it a tender bite, while the smoked sausage adds depth and a little kick. It’s creamy without being too heavy, and the ranch seasoning pulls it all together with tang and spice. If you want to stretch the dish or add color, tossing in a handful of spinach or bell peppers at the end works wonderfully.
With everything cooking in one pot, you not only save time but also preserve the delicious mingling of flavors as the pasta soaks up all the goodness. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a keeper.
🧄 Ingredients (shuffled for flavor balance):
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced (andouille or kielbasa)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade)
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
👨🍳 Instructions:
1. Sear the Chicken and Sausage:
Heat olive oil or butter in a large, deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly browned but not fully cooked. Add the sausage slices and continue cooking for 3–4 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is nicely seared.
2. Add Pasta and Liquids:
Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine. Add the pasta and bring the pot to a gentle boil.
3. Simmer to Creaminess:
Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for 12–15 minutes or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has reduced into a creamy sauce. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water.
4. Add the Cheese:
Turn off the heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Let the pasta sit for a few minutes before serving. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for an extra burst of color and flavor.
🥗 Nutrition & Dietary Considerations:
This recipe offers a satisfying balance of protein from chicken and sausage, plus calcium and healthy fats from cheddar and cream. The ranch mix and sausage add bold flavor, but also contribute sodium—so if you’re watching salt intake, opt for low-sodium broth and go easy on added salt. This dish contains dairy and gluten, so it may not be suitable for lactose-intolerant or gluten-sensitive individuals unless you make substitutions like plant-based cream or gluten-free pasta. To lighten things up, you could swap heavy cream for half-and-half or add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients.
💬 Sharing and Commenting is Caring
Love quick meals that pack a punch? Share this creamy, smoky pasta recipe with your friends or post your delicious creation online! Got your own twist—maybe a spicy sausage or some added veggies? Drop it in the comments below. Every kitchen tip makes the next meal even better!