If you are craving a dinner that feels like a warm, comforting hug with a little spicy kick, you absolutely need to try the Ultimate Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe. This dish elegantly combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and perfectly cooked penne pasta all swirled together in a luscious, creamy sauce loaded with melty pepper jack and Parmesan cheese. Every bite bursts with flavor and just enough heat to keep things exciting, making it your new go-to weeknight superstar or weekend treat to impress family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be intimidated by this dish; the ingredients list is refreshingly straightforward but packed with flavors that truly shine when combined. Each component adds its own magic, from the smokiness of the sausage to the creamy, cheesy finish that brings it all together.
- Olive oil: Provides the perfect base to sear the chicken and sausage, ensuring a beautiful golden crust.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces, they offer tender, juicy protein to the pasta.
- Smoked sausage: Adds rich, smoky flavor and a satisfying meaty texture that complements the chicken.
- Garlic: Minced to infuse the entire dish with its fragrant aroma and subtle pungency.
- Paprika: Brings a sweet earthiness and vibrant color to the seasoning mix.
- Onion powder: Deepens the savory flavor without the texture of fresh onions.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple essentials that enhance every other flavor in the dish.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a customizable level of heat for those who love a little spice.
- Penne pasta: This sturdy shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully and creates the perfect bite.
- Chicken broth: Dissolves into the pasta, infusing it with a subtle savory backbone.
- Heavy cream: The secret to making this dish incredibly creamy and indulgent.
- Shredded pepper jack cheese: Gives the pasta that signature creamy and spicy kick that makes this recipe stand out.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce to a silky finish.
- Chopped fresh parsley: A fresh, vibrant touch that brightens every serving.
How to Make Ultimate Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Season the Chicken
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Toss in the bite-sized chicken pieces and sprinkle with paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate to rest. This step locks in those savory flavors and creates a fantastic base for the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage and Add Aromatics
Using the same skillet, add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until nicely browned, about 3 to 4 minutes. The rendered sausage fat will add richness for the next steps. Then, stir in the minced garlic and optional crushed red pepper flakes, letting them sauté for about 1 minute until aromatic. This builds layers of flavor that make the pasta truly irresistible.
Step 3: Combine Chicken and Pasta with Liquids
Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the uncooked penne pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Give everything a good stir to combine all those delicious bits. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally and cook until the pasta is tender but still has a slight bite — just how penne should be.
Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses for Ultimate Creaminess
Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, remove the lid and stir in the shredded pepper jack and grated Parmesan cheeses. The cheesiness melts slowly into the sauce, creating the ultimate creamy texture that coats every piece of pasta and meat. Let the pasta rest for a few minutes off the heat to thicken that velvety sauce even more before diving in.
How to Serve Ultimate Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley should be your go-to garnish. It adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh herbal note that balances the richness of the sauce wonderfully. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of extra crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the heat and add a crunch.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully hearty on its own, but serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some steamed green beans adds a fresh contrast and keeps the meal balanced. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread is a no-brainer for mopping up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, try serving the pasta in shallow bowls and garnish with parsley and a few freshly cracked black peppercorns. You can also pack individual servings into small cast iron skillets for a rustic, cozy vibe that will impress dinner guests. It’s a dish that looks as special as it tastes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Ultimate Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, giving you tasty and effortless meals for the next couple of days.
Freezing
This pasta can be frozen, though the texture of the sauce may slightly change upon thawing. To freeze, cool completely, transfer into a freezer-safe container, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce appears too thick, ensuring that creamy comfort you loved in the first serving returns with every bite.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works great for this recipe because it holds the sauce well, you can use rotini, fusilli, or even rigatoni. Just be sure to adjust cooking times to match the pasta you choose.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute the chicken and sausage with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers. Consider adding plant-based sausage if you want that smokiness without the meat.
Can I make this recipe less spicy?
Definitely. You can omit the crushed red pepper flakes entirely and use mild sausage instead of smoked sausage to reduce heat while keeping all the flavor intact.
What’s the best cheese to substitute if I can’t find pepper jack?
Monterey Jack or a mild cheddar mixed with jalapeño slices is a great alternative. You could also use Colby Jack for a creamy texture with a subtle tang.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance for a dinner party?
Yes. You can cook up to the point before adding the cheese and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, warm the pasta gently and stir in the cheeses for that fresh melted finish.
Final Thoughts
I can’t encourage you enough to give the Ultimate Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe a try soon. It’s a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and smoky flavors all wrapped up in one satisfying, easy-to-make meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this pasta will quickly become a beloved favorite in your recipe repertoire.
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Ultimate Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ultimate Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is a hearty one-pot meal combining tender chicken, smoky sausage, and a luscious cheesy sauce with a spicy kick from pepper jack cheese and optional red pepper flakes. Perfectly seasoned and cooked with penne pasta in a creamy chicken broth base, it delivers a comforting dinner that’s ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
Produce & Aromatics
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Pantry & Spices
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
Dairy
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken until browned and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Brown the sausage: In the same skillet, add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned, about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally to get an even sear.
- Sauté garlic and spices: Add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes (if using) to the sausage. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the uncooked penne pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir everything together thoroughly and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the pasta: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven and let it simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Add cheese and finish: Remove the lid and stir in the shredded pepper jack cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheeses have melted completely and the sauce is creamy.
- Rest and garnish: Allow the pasta to rest for a few minutes to thicken up before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use reduced-fat cheeses to cut calories and fat.
- Add spinach or diced bell peppers for an extra serving of vegetables and added nutrition.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer more or less heat in the dish.
