One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Beef Sausage Pasta
One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Beef Sausage Pasta combines tender chicken, savory smoked beef sausage, and creamy cheddar cheese in a rich, smoky sauce. The ranch seasoning adds a tangy twist, making it the perfect comforting weeknight meal with minimal cleanup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4-6
- Category: Dinner, One-Pot Meals
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 lb smoked beef 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 or 2 tbsp homemade ranch seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
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Prepare the ingredients: Dice the chicken breast and slice the smoked beef sausage. Set them aside.
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Cook the chicken and sausage: Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced chicken and sliced smoked sausage, seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 7-10 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through, and the sausage is lightly browned.
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Add the pasta: Add uncooked pasta to the pot, then pour in chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Simmer and cook: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let the pasta cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until al dente and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
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Add the cream and seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream and ranch seasoning. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it melts and thickens the sauce.
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Season and serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve hot with extra cheddar cheese or ranch dressing on the side.
Notes
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Freezing: If you plan to freeze, avoid adding the cream. Freeze the pasta mixture and add the cream and cheese when reheating.
Variations:
Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken and sausage with tofu, tempeh, or plant-based sausage.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
Add Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition.
Cheese Swap: Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack instead of cheddar for a different flavor.
