If you are craving a dish that combines the bold flavors of spicy sausage and tender chicken with the irresistible creaminess of cheese, the Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe is here to delight your taste buds. This hearty, comforting pasta is bursting with layers of flavor from the zesty Pepper Jack cheese and a savory medley of ingredients that come together beautifully in a luscious sauce. Whether you’re feeding family on a busy weeknight or impressing friends at a casual dinner, this recipe effortlessly delivers both simplicity and wow factor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the spicy kick of Pepper Jack cheese to the tender morsels of chicken and sausage, every component contributes to making this dish unforgettable.
- Turkey sausage, 1 lb sliced: Provides a smoky, savory base with a mild spiciness; you can substitute with your favorite sausage.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, 1 lb diced: Adds lean protein and tender texture that soaks up the creamy sauce.
- Rotini or penne pasta, 12 oz: Their ridges and tubes capture the sauce perfectly for maximum flavor in every forkful.
- Chicken broth, 2 cups: Builds a rich, flavorful liquid foundation for the sauce without overpowering it.
- Heavy cream, 1 cup: Gives the sauce its signature indulgent, silky smooth texture.
- Shredded Pepper Jack cheese, 1½ cups: Brings a creamy, melty, and slightly spicy element that defines this pasta.
- Grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup: Adds a nutty depth and enhances the cheesy richness of the dish.
- Olive oil, 1 tablespoon: Used to sauté the sausage and chicken, adding a fruitiness and helping develop flavor.
- Small onion, diced: Introduces sweetness and texture while balancing the spices.
- Garlic, 3 cloves minced: Infuses an aromatic warmth that’s essential in Italian-inspired dishes.
- Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon: A blend of herbs that beautifully complements the meats and cheese.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Enhances all the flavors and adds subtle heat.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Provides a bright, fresh contrast and pops of green at the finish.
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. Toss in the sliced turkey sausage and cook it until it’s beautifully browned on both sides. This step locks in flavor and renders out some fat that will help season the rest of the dish. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside so we can focus on the chicken.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken with Onion and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the diced chicken along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Season everything generously with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. The onion will soften and sweeten, while the garlic brings that irresistible savory aroma. Cook this mixture, stirring occasionally, for about 5 to 7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through with no pink remaining.
Step 3: Boil the Pasta
While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your choice of rotini or penne pasta and cook it until al dente—this means tender but still with a slight bite, the perfect texture to hold the creamy sauce. Drain the pasta once ready and set aside so it’s primed for tossing in the sauce later.
Step 4: Combine Sausage, Chicken, and Liquids
Return the browned sausage to the skillet with the cooked chicken mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring everything together. Bring this blend to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to start thickening as the cream interacts with the broth.
Step 5: Melt in the Cheeses
Turn the heat down to low and slowly stir in the shredded Pepper Jack cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until all the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce that hugs every ingredient. The Pepper Jack adds a signature spicy creaminess, while Parmesan deepens the overall flavor.
Step 6: Toss Pasta in the Sauce
Finally, add the drained pasta directly into the skillet and toss everything together until each piece of pasta is generously coated in the cheesy sauce. This step is where the magic happens as the sauce envelops the pasta, chicken, and sausage, ensuring every bite is a flavorful delight.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Serve your creamy creation hot, sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley to add a burst of color and a slight herbal freshness that balances the richness of the dish.
How to Serve Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes! Freshly chopped parsley not only brightens the visual appeal but also adds a clean, slightly peppery note that contrasts sublime with the creamy, cheesy sauce. For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of olive oil for a glossy finish.
Side Dishes
To truly round out the meal, pair this pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, which cuts through the richness and refreshes the palate. Garlic bread or warm, crusty bread is also a fantastic companion to scoop up any leftover sauce, making sure not a drop goes to waste.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation can elevate an already delicious dish. Serve this pasta in shallow bowls to showcase the colorful medley of ingredients, or try individual ramekins baked briefly with extra cheese on top for a bubbly, golden crust. You can even turn leftovers into stuffed peppers or layered casseroles for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the comforting flavors with minimal effort later on.
Freezing
This pasta is freezer-friendly! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Frozen leftovers can be kept for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works as well but pause halfway to stir for even warming and to keep the creamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute turkey sausage with Italian sausage, chorizo, or even a plant-based sausage depending on your preference. The flavor profile may vary slightly but will still be delicious.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make the Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe gluten-free, simply swap out the pasta for a gluten-free variety, which works wonderfully in this dish.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
While you can use milk, heavy cream gives the sauce its signature rich and silky texture. Using milk may result in a thinner sauce, but adding a bit of flour or cornstarch can help thicken it.
How spicy is Pepper Jack cheese? Will it be too much for kids?
Pepper Jack cheese has a mild to moderate heat level thanks to the spicy peppers incorporated. You can reduce the amount or substitute with a milder cheese if you prefer less spice for kids.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Rotini and penne are ideal because their shapes hold the creamy sauce well. That said, feel free to experiment with shells, fusilli, or even farfalle based on your pantry and preferences.
Final Thoughts
The Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser and a personal favorite that never fails to satisfy. It brings together the perfect harmony of spice, creaminess, and hearty protein in a pasta dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. I hope you give this recipe a try soon and make it a regular star at your dinner table.
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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
This creamy Pepper Jack chicken and sausage pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish combining tender chicken, savory turkey sausage, and a luscious cheese sauce made with Pepper Jack and Parmesan. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, the pasta is tossed in a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning, topped with fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
Ingredients
Protein
- 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
Sauce & Liquid
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
Cheese
- 1½ cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Oils
- 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, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook chicken and aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced chicken, 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.
- Prepare 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, usually 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Create the sauce base: Return the browned sausage to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat.
- Melt cheese into sauce: Lower the heat and stir in the shredded Pepper Jack cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheeses fully melt and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together thoroughly so the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Serve and garnish: Serve the creamy Pepper Jack chicken and sausage pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley to add color and a fresh flavor note.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage with your preferred sausage like Italian or andouille for varied flavors.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; al dente texture holds well when tossed in sauce.
- This dish reheats well, but add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens when stored.
- For extra heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking the chicken and onions.
