If you crave a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and indulgently creamy textures, you are going to fall head over heels for this Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that combines spicy, melty Pepper Jack cheese with juicy chicken and savory sausage, all tossed with tender pasta in a luxuriously smooth sauce. Every bite brings a delightful warmth and a satisfying mix of rich, hearty ingredients that come together effortlessly. Trust me, once you try this creamy pasta, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your cooking rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple ingredients is key to creating incredible flavor, texture, and a visually appealing dish. Each component in this recipe plays an essential role, whether it’s delivering spice, creaminess, or that irresistible savory punch.
- 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced: Choose your favorite sausage for hearty flavor and a touch of spice; turkey keeps it a bit lighter.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced: Adds lean protein and a tender bite that pairs perfectly with rich sauce.
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta: Its shape helps trap the creamy sauce so every forkful is saucy and satisfying.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Builds a flavorful base for the sauce while keeping it light and silky.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Responsible for the luscious creaminess that makes this pasta dish irresistible.
- 1½ cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese: Melted into the sauce, it adds a spicy kick and melty gooey texture.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, salty element that rounds out the cheesy sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for browning sausage and chicken, adding flavor and preventing sticking.
- 1 small onion, diced: Brings subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with an aromatic punch that complements all the savory ingredients.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that elevates the entire pasta experience.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds vibrant color and a fresh herbal note at the end.
How to Make Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced turkey sausage and cook it until each piece is beautifully browned on both sides. This browning stage is critical — it develops deep, savory notes that become the flavor foundation of the whole dish. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside. Don’t rush this step; patience here yields flavor rewards!
Step 2: Cook the Chicken, Onion, and Garlic
Using the same skillet, add the diced chicken along with diced onion and minced garlic. Season everything with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. The onions will soften and the garlic will release its aroma, ensuring the sauce is already flavorful before you add any cheese or cream.
Step 3: Boil the Pasta
While your proteins cook, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your chosen rotini or penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente — tender but still slightly firm to the bite. Drain the pasta well and set it aside. This step is essential so your pasta doesn’t become mushy once it hits the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Combine Sausage, Chicken, and Creamy Base
Return the browned sausage slices to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Pour in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. This combination melds the savory sausage and chicken flavors with the richness of the cream, creating the base of your luscious sauce.
Step 5: Add the Cheeses
Turn the heat down low and gradually stir in the shredded Pepper Jack and grated Parmesan cheeses. Keep stirring until the cheeses melt smoothly into the cream mixture, transforming it into a velvety, spicy sauce that clings beautifully to your pasta. This stage is where the magic really happens — the cheese adds depth, creaminess, and a little spicy kick that sets this pasta apart.
Step 6: Toss with Pasta
Finally, add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything carefully until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy Pepper Jack sauce. This ensures each bite is filled with flavor, and the sauce tastes just as delightful as the cheese melts perfectly into each noodle.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Serve your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe hot from the stove, garnished liberally with freshly chopped parsley. The bright green flecks not only add an inviting pop of color but also give a touch of freshness that balances the richness of the dish. Now dig in and savor every creamy, cheesy, spicy bite!
How to Serve Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a classic finish that adds brightness and a touch of herbaceous flavor. If you want an extra kick, try adding sliced jalapeños, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes, or even a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for some extra moisture and gloss.
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing sides. Consider a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the dish or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for added texture and nutrition. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette also makes an ideal companion to mop up all that wonderful sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party vibe, plate the pasta in shallow bowls, garnish with parsley and a little extra shredded Pepper Jack or Parmesan cheese on top. Serving it family-style in a large skillet or a beautiful pasta bowl encourages sharing and is perfect for casual gatherings. You can also sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs for extra crunch and texture contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can keep well for up to 3 days while maintaining great flavor and texture. Be sure to cool it down to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation buildup.
Freezing
If you want to save this pasta for a longer period, freezing is an option, but keep in mind dairy-based sauces can separate after thawing. To freeze, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often and adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce feels too thick or separated. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly and maintain that creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe calls for turkey sausage, feel free to swap in Italian sausage, chorizo, or any sausage you like. Each will add its unique flavor twist to your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta instead of rotini or penne. Just be sure to double-check that your chicken broth and sausage are also gluten-free to avoid any hidden gluten.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level mainly comes from the Pepper Jack cheese, which adds a gentle but noticeable kick. If you like it milder, use less cheese or substitute with Monterey Jack cheese; for more heat, add crushed red pepper or extra spicy sausage.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
You can brown the sausage and cook the chicken ahead of time, then refrigerate until ready to assemble the full dish. The pasta and sauce are best prepared fresh to keep that perfect creamy texture.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch as a lighter alternative, but keep in mind it may not be quite as thick or rich as using heavy cream in your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe is a fantastic way to bring spice, comfort, and creamy indulgence all in one easy-to-make meal. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner with friends, it’s sure to delight and satisfy every craving. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how deliciously simple pasta can be when paired with such bold flavors and creamy goodness.
Print
Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish combining tender diced chicken, spicy turkey sausage, and a luscious creamy cheese sauce made with Pepper Jack and Parmesan cheeses. This delicious pasta dish blends Italian seasonings with a creamy texture, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced (or use any sausage you prefer)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Pasta
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
Liquids
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Cheese
- 1½ cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Aromatics & Seasonings
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced turkey sausage and cook until browned on both sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Chicken with Aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced chicken along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is thoroughly cooked and no longer pink.
- Cook Pasta: While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini or penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Sausage and Liquids: Return the browned sausage to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
- Add Cheeses to Sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded Pepper Jack and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy cheese sauce.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage with any preferred sausage like Italian or chorizo for different flavor profiles.
- Use rotini or penne pasta, but other shapes like fusilli or rigatoni work well too.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Adjust the spiciness by choosing a milder or hotter Pepper Jack cheese or adding crushed red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers keep well covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling the sauce.
