One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Sausage Pasta – Bold, Cheesy & Comfort-Packed

Smoky sausage, tender chicken, and pasta cooked together in a creamy cheddar ranch sauce with just the right kick. One pot, zero fuss, huge flavor.

📋 ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

• 12 oz smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup milk or half-and-half

• 12 oz short pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)

• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions

🥣 directions:

brown the protein

Heat oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sausage. Cook until chicken is lightly golden and sausage is browned. Remove excess grease if needed.

build the base

Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and milk. Bring to a gentle boil.

cook the pasta

Stir in pasta, ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered 12–15 minutes, stirring often, until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.

make it cheesy

Lower heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

serve

Let sit 2–3 minutes to thicken, then garnish and serve hot.

💡 tips:

• Swap milk for heavy cream for extra richness

• Add peas or spinach at the end for color

• Use pepper jack cheese for a spicier twist

⏲ prep time: 10 mins | cook time: 25 mins

makes: 4–6 servings