One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken

One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Sausage Pasta – The Ultimate Comfort Dish

Introduction: Big Flavor, One Pot, Zero Fuss

When you’re craving something hearty, creamy, cheesy, and smoky, this One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Sausage Pasta hits the spot. Loaded with seasoned chicken, smoky sausage, rich cheddar, and tangy ranch seasoning, all brought together in a single pot with al dente pasta and a velvety cream sauce, this is your go-to weeknight comfort meal.

It’s satisfying enough for Sunday dinner and quick enough for busy weeknights—plus fewer dishes to wash! With bold flavors and a creamy, cheesy finish, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pot meal = less cleanup, more flavor

Combines chicken + sausage for double the protein

Perfectly creamy, cheesy, and smoky with ranch undertones

Great for meal prep and leftovers

Easily customizable with veggies or pasta swaps

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds

12 oz penne or rotini pasta

4 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 packet ranch seasoning mix

1 small onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

> Tip: Use a good-quality smoked sausage (like andouille or kielbasa) for maximum flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Sausage

In a large deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

Add diced chicken, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and sauté until browned (4–5 minutes).

Push chicken to one side and add the sliced sausage. Cook until sausage is browned (about 3–4 minutes).

Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

Add diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Liquids

Stir in uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning mix.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.

Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Once pasta is cooked, stir in heavy cream and cheddar cheese.

Let simmer uncovered for 2–3 minutes until sauce thickens and cheese is melted.

Adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley (optional) and serve hot.

Bonus: Serve with garlic bread or a side salad!

Variations and Add-Ins

1. Veggie Boost

Add bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli.

2. Extra Heat

Use spicy andouille sausage or add red pepper flakes.

3. Different Cheeses

Swap in Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for cheddar.

4. Turkey or Shrimp Version

Replace chicken or sausage with lean turkey or shrimp.

5. Low-Carb Version

Use low-carb pasta or spiralized zucchini.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks

Crisp green salad with vinaigrette

Roasted green beans or asparagus

> This dish pairs beautifully with light white wines like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make-Ahead:

You can cook the entire dish ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Reheating:

Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.

Freezing:

Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

Nutrition Info (Per Serving – based on 6 servings)

Calories: ~620

Protein: 35g

Carbs: 40g

Fat: 35g

Fiber: 2g

> Nutrition varies based on cheese and sausage type.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes! Any short pasta works—rotini, rigatoni, shells, or even bowtie.

Is ranch seasoning too salty?

If using a pre-packaged mix, taste before adding extra salt.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook chicken and sausage first, then add all ingredients except cheese and cream. Cook on low for 3–4 hours. Add cream and cheese in the last 30 minutes.

Conclusion: Creamy, Cheesy, Comfort in a Pot

This One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Sausage Pasta brings together everything you want in a satisfying dinner—protein-packed, full of flavor, and so easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping lunches, or craving comfort food, this creamy ranch pasta delivers big-time.

Call to Action

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