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Creamy pepper jack pasta with chicken and sausage served in a bowl

Ultimate Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta with Chicken & Sausage

A comforting and hearty pasta dish combining creamy pepper jack cheese, chicken, and sausage, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz penne pasta or any pasta shape you love
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil can be substituted with vegetable oil
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces; thighs can work for more flavor
  • ½ pound smoked sausage sliced; any smoked sausage will work, chicken sausage for a lighter option
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or use fresh minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder or diced onion if sautéed first
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika regular paprika can be a substitute
  • Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper essential for balancing flavors
  • 1 tablespoon butter or margarine for a dairy-free option
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced boosts flavor; adjust based on preference
  • 2 cups heavy cream half-and-half can be lighter alternative
  • 1 cup chicken broth vegetable broth for vegetarian option
  • 1½ cups shredded pepper jack cheese Monterey Jack or cheddar for milder taste
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese nutritional yeast for vegan option
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes adjust to taste or omit if less spice is preferred
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish Fresh parsley, chopped can substitute with basil or cilantro

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions in a large pot of salted water until al dente (approximately 9-11 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.
Cooking the Chicken and Sausage
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chicken pieces seasoned with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 4 minutes until the chicken begins to brown.
  3. Introduce the smoked sausage to the skillet with the chicken and continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until both meats are cooked through and slightly caramelized. Transfer proteins to a plate and set aside.
Making the Sauce
  1. Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds or until fragrant.
  2. Whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer (do not boil). Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the mixture to reduce slightly.
  3. Gradually stir in shredded pepper jack and parmesan cheese until completely melted and smooth.
  4. Return the cooked chicken and sausage to the skillet along with the drained pasta, tossing everything thoroughly to coat every bite with the creamy sauce.
Serving
  1. Serve with a generous garnish of freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

For extra creaminess, add a splash more heavy cream at the end. Can make vegetarian by omitting meats and adding vegetables like bell peppers and spinach.