If there’s one dish that always hits the spot for a weeknight dinner, it’s Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta. This recipe brings together tender chicken, smoky sausage, vibrant veggies, and penne pasta, all tossed in a irresistible sauce that’s both creamy and gently spiced thanks to Pepper Jack cheese. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this pasta is comforting, undeniably satisfying, and rich enough to make any meal memorable.

Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta lies in how its simple, everyday ingredients come together for a flavor-packed meal. Each component offers something special: texture, heat, color, or that crave-worthy creamy finish.

Olive oil: The base for sautéing, adding a fruity richness to every bite.
Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick, even cooking and juicy results.
Smoked sausage: This adds a wonderful smoky depth and robust flavor to the pasta.
Onion: Diced and sautéed for a sweet and savory aromatic base.
Red bell pepper: Brings a pop of color and gentle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
Garlic: Minced for those assertive, mouth-watering garlicky notes.
Chicken broth: Adds body and richness to the sauce while simmering the pasta perfectly.
Heavy cream: Essential for that signature creamy texture—you want every swirl of pasta to be luxuriously coated.
Penne pasta: Uncooked; penne’s nooks hold the sauce so well, but sub in your favorite shape if you like.
Pepper Jack cheese: Shredded and stirred in at the end for creaminess with a subtle kick.
Paprika: Adds color and a gentle warmth to the background flavor.
Italian seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that subtly enhance the savory profile.
Salt and black pepper: As always, to taste—season as you go for the best results.
Chopped parsley: A fresh and vibrant garnish that lifts the final dish.

How to Make Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and freshly cracked black pepper, then add them to the hot pan. Sauté for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally so they brown evenly and stay juicy. The chicken should be lightly golden on the outside but not overcooked since it’ll simmer further with the pasta later.

Step 2: Add the Sausage

Once your chicken is nearly seared, toss in the sliced smoked sausage. Keep everything moving in the pan for another 3 minutes. The sausage releases its flavors into the oil, creating a seriously delicious foundation for your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Stir in the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. These vegetables will soften and become fragrant after about 3 to 4 minutes, enhancing the flavor and adding beautiful pops of color. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing at this point!

Step 4: Simmer Pasta & Sauce Together

Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, uncooked penne pasta, paprika, and Italian seasoning right to the skillet. Give everything a big stir and bring it to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let it all simmer for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick. By the end, the pasta will be tender and most of the liquid should be absorbed, creating a luscious base for the cheese.

Step 5: Make it Creamy and Cheesy

Take the pan off the heat, then stir in your shredded Pepper Jack cheese. Watch as it melts seamlessly into the sauce, transforming the mixture into a perfectly creamy, slightly spicy delight. Taste and adjust seasoning with a final sprinkle of salt and pepper, if needed. Top it all off with chopped parsley for a touch of fresh greenery, and your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is ready to serve!

How to Serve Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta

Garnishes

The right garnish takes this pasta from comforting to absolutely stunning. A generous sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only wakes up the flavors but adds a burst of color. If you’re feeling extra, a little extra shredded Pepper Jack on top right before serving wow your guests with a melty, bubbly finish.

Side Dishes

This pasta is rich and filling, but a simple side can balance things out perfectly. Try a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some steamed green beans for crunch and freshness. Warm, crusty bread or garlic knots are also perfect for mopping up every last bit of the creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta in individual ramekins and broil with extra cheese for a bubbly top. Or, spoon it into bell pepper halves and bake until toasty for a colorful, veggie-packed presentation. You can also garnish with sliced green onions or a dash of smoked paprika for extra flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with extra Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta, rejoice—leftovers make a wonderful next-day lunch! Store cooled pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld overnight, making each bite even heartier and more delicious.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze this pasta if you want to prep ahead. Portion cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers, making sure to leave a little room for expansion. It keeps beautifully for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it looks a little thick. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring between each interval to ensure everything heats evenly and stays creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Absolutely! While Pepper Jack gives a signature zesty flavor, Monterey Jack or a blend of mozzarella and a touch of cheddar will work if you prefer something milder or just have them on hand.

What type Main Course

Smoked sausage brings the best savory notes and holds up well during simmering, but Andouille or even spicy Italian sausage are fantastic if you’d like a little more kick in your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute your favorite gluten-free penne or pasta and double-check labels on your sausage and broth to ensure they’re gluten-free friendly.

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is perfect for meal prepping! It keeps well in the fridge and reheats beautifully. Just store in portioned containers for grab-and-go lunches or easy dinners all week long.

How can I adjust the spice level?

If you want extra heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicy smoked sausage. For less heat, swap out Pepper Jack for regular Monterey Jack or cream cheese for a mild but still creamy version.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing dinner that’s a little spicy, totally creamy, and seriously satisfying, Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta truly delivers. I hope you’ll give it a try, enjoy every cheesy forkful, and maybe add your own spin. Happy cooking!

Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is a delicious and easy one-pot meal that combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and flavorful spices with creamy Pepper Jack cheese. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Sausage:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
225g (8 oz) smoked sausage, sliced

Veggies and Seasonings:

1 small onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Liquid and Dairy:

2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream

Pasta and Cheese:

225g (8 oz) penne pasta (uncooked)
1 1/2 cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese
Chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Sear the Meat: Heat olive oil in a skillet, cook chicken until browned, then add sausage.
Add Veggies and Seasonings: Sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic with spices until softened.
Cook the Pasta: Pour in broth, cream, pasta, and seasonings. Simmer until pasta is tender.
Melt the Cheese: Stir in Pepper Jack cheese until creamy. Adjust seasoning and garnish with parsley.