If you’re craving a dish that perfectly combines bold flavors with creamy indulgence, the Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe is an absolute must-try. This comforting pasta melds tender chicken and savory sausage into a luscious, cheesy sauce that highlights the smoky, spicy kick of Pepper Jack cheese. It’s not only a feast for your taste buds but also a beautiful, satisfying meal that you can pull together on any weeknight or for a cozy weekend dinner. The balance of protein, creamy texture, and a hint of heat makes this pasta recipe a favorite for anyone who loves a little zest in their comfort food.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet flavorful ingredients is the key to making this dish shine. Each element—from the spicy sausage and tender chicken to the creamy cheeses and fresh herbs—plays an essential role in building the layers of taste and texture that make this recipe so special.
- Turkey sausage, 1 lb: Adds a smoky, savory depth; choose your favorite sausage for personalized flavor.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 lb: Keeps the dish hearty and protein-packed with tender bites.
- Rotini or penne pasta, 12 oz: Perfect shapes for catching the creamy sauce in every forkful.
- Chicken broth, 2 cups: Builds a rich base to enhance the flavor while keeping it light.
- Heavy cream, 1 cup: Creates that dreamy, velvety texture that clings to the pasta.
- Shredded Pepper Jack cheese, 1½ cups: Brings spicy creaminess and a wonderful melty quality.
- Grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup: Adds sharp, nutty notes for depth and complexity.
- Olive oil, 1 tablespoon: For sautéing and infusing flavor into the meat and vegetables.
- Small onion, diced: Builds a subtle sweetness and aromatic base.
- Garlic cloves, 3 minced: Gives a punch of fragrant warmth and piquancy.
- Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon: A blend of herbs that ties all flavors together beautifully.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing every ingredient.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the final dish with a fresh herbal note and a pop of color.
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 it’s beautifully browned on both sides. This step unlocks rich, savory flavors and a satisfying texture, so don’t rush it. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Aromatics
In the same skillet, toss in the diced chicken alongside the diced onion and minced garlic. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook everything together for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. This combination builds a fragrant, savory layer that will enrich the entire dish.
Step 3: Prepare the Pasta
While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of rotini or penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Perfectly tender pasta is essential to complement the creamy sauce and hearty meats—so keep an eye on it and drain well once ready.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
Return the browned sausage to the skillet with the chicken and aromatics. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir to combine well. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. This simmer helps to meld all the flavors, allowing the cream and broth to become the luscious base for your sauce.
Step 5: Add the Cheeses
Turn the heat down a notch and stir in the shredded Pepper Jack and grated Parmesan cheeses. Mix thoroughly until the cheeses have melted completely and the sauce turns smooth and creamy. The Pepper Jack offers a wonderful melty texture with a spicy edge, while Parmesan adds a perfect punch of savory depth.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce, chicken, and sausage. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is evenly coated in that irresistible cheesy sauce. This step brings all the ingredients together for a unified, soul-warming meal.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finish off by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley over the pasta. This simple touch adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbal brightness that beautifully balances the rich, creamy sauce. Serve it hot and prepare for a delightful dining experience!
How to Serve Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is the classic choice, adding a vibrant contrast in both look and flavor. For an extra dash of heat, try adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a light drizzle of chili oil. A little grated Parmesan on top never hurts, either!
Side Dishes
This creamy pasta pairs excellently with something crisp and refreshing. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli makes a perfect balance to the richness. Garlic bread or crusty baguette also complement the dish wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual but elegant meal, serve the pasta straight from a large skillet to the table, letting everyone help themselves. Alternatively, plate with a small salad and a sprig of fresh parsley for a picture-perfect presentation. For a fun twist, bake the finished pasta with an extra layer of cheese on top until golden and bubbly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep or easy reheating later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this pasta, but keep in mind that creamy dishes sometimes change texture when frozen. For best results, freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best flavor and creaminess.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much. This will revive the creamy texture perfectly. Microwaving works too, but use short intervals and stir often to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Pepper Jack?
Absolutely! While Pepper Jack gives the dish its signature spicy kick, you can swap in Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or a combination of mozzarella and cheddar if you prefer something less spicy but still gooey and delicious.
Is turkey sausage necessary, or can I use pork sausage?
You can definitely use pork sausage or any other sausage you like. Each type will impart a slightly different flavor, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute sausage and chicken with plant-based proteins like vegetarian sausage or tofu. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and consider using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian meal.
How spicy is the Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe?
The heat level comes mainly from the Pepper Jack cheese, which has a mild to medium spice. If you prefer less heat, reduce the cheese amount or choose a milder cheese. If you like it spicier, add chili flakes or a spicy sausage variety.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to check all other ingredients, like broth and sausage, for gluten-free labeling to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly comforting about the Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe that makes it a standout in any dinner rotation. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again because it strikes a perfect balance of hearty, cheesy, and flavorful all in one pan. Give it a try and enjoy sharing this warm, satisfying dish with friends and family – I promise it will quickly become one of your personal favorites!
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 Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is a hearty and flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender chicken, savory turkey sausage, and rotini pasta tossed in a rich and creamy cheese sauce made with Pepper Jack and Parmesan. This quick and comforting meal combines spices, fresh herbs, and a luscious sauce that effortlessly comes together on the stovetop, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meats
- 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced (or use any sausage you prefer)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Pasta & Liquids
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Cheeses
- 1½ cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning & Oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown 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 to keep warm.
- Cook the Chicken and Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced chicken along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.
- Boil the 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 the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it 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 everything to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
- Add the Cheeses: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded Pepper Jack and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for added color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage with pork or chicken sausage if preferred.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the chicken.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
