When I was a little girl, maybe five or six, my grandma and I would spend hours in her kitchen. Her aprons smelled of flour and cinnamon, and the radio always played soft jazz. We weren’t just baking; we were crafting memories.
That same feeling of warmth and comfort, the one that makes your shoulders drop and a gentle smile spread across your face, is exactly what I strive for with every dish I create, both at my bakery, Sweet Magnolia, and in my own home. This Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta recipe delivers that feeling in spades. It’s the perfect weeknight meal when you need something hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.
The blend of savory chicken and robust sausage, bathed in a luscious, slightly spicy pepper jack cream sauce, truly makes this a dish to remember. It’s become a staple in my home, a true testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something extraordinary.
If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinners, this dish is a perfect choice. Check out our collection of other flavorful recipes that are just as comforting and easy to prepare, such as Simple Savory Pasta Recipes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Each element of this dish combines to create a mouthwatering experience. For more inspiration on utilizing cheese in your meals, explore our guide on Cooking with Cheese.
Life moves fast here in Asheville, North Carolina, and sometimes you just need a meal that’s both quick to prepare and deeply comforting. This Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is precisely that kind of recipe. It offers a sophisticated flavor profile without any of the fuss.
You’ll love the incredible combination of tender chicken and savory chicken sausage, perfectly complementing each other. The star, of course, is that rich, velvety cream sauce, infused with the delightful kick of Pepper Jack cheese. It’s spicy enough to be interesting but not so much that it overwhelms, making this creamy chicken pasta a family favorite.
The pasta provides a satisfying base, soaking up all that incredible flavor. This is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for any occasion. Once you taste this Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta, you’ll understand why it quickly becomes a regular in your rotation.
It’s truly a winner.
The balance in flavors within this recipe makes it a family favorite. If you enjoy this unique taste, you’ll also love our recipe for Sausage and Peppers Stir-Fry, which offers another twist on these savory ingredients.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients ahead of time makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta:
* 1 pound penne pasta (or your favorite short pasta like rotini or cavatappi)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 12 ounces cooked chicken sausage, sliced into rounds (we love a mild Italian-style for this dish)
* 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
* ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
* ½ cup chicken broth
* 2 cups heavy cream
* 8 ounces Pepper Jack cheese, freshly grated
* ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
* ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Substitutions & Variations
One of the joys of cooking is making a recipe your own, and this Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment based on what you have on hand or what your family enjoys!
For the protein, if chicken breast isn’t your preference, you could use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for an even richer flavor. Turkey sausage or even a plant-based sausage would work wonderfully as an alternative to chicken sausage, keeping this creamy pasta dish hearty and satisfying. For a vegetarian twist, consider sautéing a medley of mushrooms and bell peppers in place of the meat, adding a smoky flavor with a touch of smoked paprika.
Regarding the cheese, while Pepper Jack provides that signature creamy heat, you can absolutely swap it out. Monterey Jack offers a milder creaminess, while a blend of sharp cheddar and a touch of cream cheese creates a different but equally delicious sauce. If you want more heat in your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta, add a pinch more red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce.
Vegetables are always a welcome addition. Stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking; the residual heat will wilt it perfectly. Sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped) can elevate the flavor and add more texture to your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta. Broccoli florets, steamed or roasted, also make a fantastic addition, adding color and nutrients.
Don’t have penne? Any short pasta shape will do – rotini, cavatappi, or even farfalle would be excellent choices for this Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta. For a gluten-free option, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Remember, the goal is a delicious, comforting meal, so tailor this recipe to suit your tastes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Creating this amazing Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps for a perfect meal every time:
1. Cook the Pasta: First, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
This means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken and Sausage: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season them with salt and pepper.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Next, add the sliced chicken sausage to the same skillet.
Cook until it’s lightly browned and heated through, about 3-5 minutes. Remove the sausage and add it to the chicken.
3. Sauté Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the chopped yellow onion to the skillet.
Sauté until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Don’t let the garlic burn!
4. Build the Sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. This adds so much flavor to your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta.
Bring the broth to a gentle simmer for 1-2 minutes. Reduce the heat to low, then slowly stir in the heavy cream. Let it warm through, but don’t boil it.
5. Melt the Cheese: Gradually add the grated Pepper Jack cheese and ½ cup of Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until both cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta, browned chicken, and cooked sausage back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything gently to ensure the pasta and meats are thoroughly coated in the luscious sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
7. Serve: Garnish your beautiful Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta with fresh chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy every bite of this delightful Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta!
Pro Tips for Success
Even the simplest recipes can benefit from a few expert touches. These pro tips will help you create the most flavorful and perfectly textured Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta every time.
First, don’t overcook your pasta. Al dente pasta is crucial because it will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the hot sauce. Overcooked, mushy pasta ruins the texture of any pasta dish, especially this Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta. Always taste a piece before draining.
Next, reserve some pasta water. This starchy, salty water is your secret weapon. If your sauce becomes too thick while simmering or after adding the pasta, a splash of this liquid will help thin it out to the perfect consistency while also helping the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta. It’s truly magic for any creamy chicken pasta.
Freshly grate your cheese. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that prevent them from melting as smoothly as block cheese. For a truly velvety and lump-free Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta sauce, take the extra minute to grate your own Pepper Jack and Parmesan.
When building the sauce, keep the heat low when adding the cream and cheese. High heat can cause dairy to curdle or the cheese to become stringy and greasy. A gentle simmer is all you need to melt the cheese and thicken the sauce to perfection for your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta.
Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the process. Season the chicken, then the sauce, and finally the finished dish. Salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes should be adjusted to your personal preference. Don’t be afraid to add a little more spice if you like things fiery!
Finally, mise en place is your friend. Before you even turn on the stove, chop all your vegetables, cube your chicken, and slice your sausage. Having everything prepped and ready to go ensures a smooth and stress-free cooking experience, especially for a quick-cooking dish like Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta. This makes the entire process enjoyable.
Storage & Reheating Tips
This Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is so good, you might not have leftovers! But if you do, here’s how to store and reheat it to keep it tasting fantastic.
Storage: Allow the Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate it promptly within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. We don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the cream sauce can sometimes separate or become grainy upon thawing, compromising the signature creaminess of this Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta.
Reheating: To enjoy your leftovers, the best method is usually on the stovetop. Transfer the desired portion of Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta to a skillet or saucepan. Add a splash of chicken broth, milk, or even a little heavy cream (about 1-2 tablespoons per serving).
This helps to rehydrate the pasta and loosen the sauce, preventing it from drying out. Heat over low to medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s warmed through.
If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish. Add a tiny splash of broth or milk, then cover loosely.
Microwave on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can dry out the chicken and make the sauce oily. Gentle reheating helps preserve the rich flavor and texture of your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is a hearty and satisfying meal all on its own, but pairing it with a few simple sides can create a perfectly balanced and complete dinner.
A fresh, crisp green salad is always a fantastic choice. Think mixed greens with thinly sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The bright, acidic dressing cuts through the richness of the Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta beautifully, offering a refreshing contrast. It’s like a palate cleanser that makes every bite of pasta even better.
Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is another classic pairing. The bread is perfect for soaking up any extra delicious sauce left on your plate, ensuring no drop of that incredible Pepper Jack goodness goes to waste. A simple loaf, brushed with garlic butter and toasted, complements the robust flavors of the Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta perfectly.
Steamed or roasted vegetables also make an excellent accompaniment. Think about tender-crisp broccoli florets, green beans sautéed with a hint of lemon, or even asparagus spears. These add color, texture, and essential nutrients without overwhelming the main dish. They provide a nice freshness against the creamy chicken pasta.
For a slightly lighter touch, consider a simple side of roasted cherry tomatoes, perhaps tossed with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of dried herbs. Their natural sweetness and slight acidity can provide another lovely counterpoint to the rich and savory Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta.
FAQs
Can I make Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta ahead of time?
While this Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is best enjoyed fresh off the stove, you can certainly do some prep work in advance. You can cook and cube the chicken, slice the sausage, chop the onion and mince the garlic a day or two before. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This will significantly speed up the cooking process when you’re ready to make your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta.
How spicy is this Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta?
The spice level in this Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is quite adaptable. Pepper Jack cheese itself has a mild to medium kick. The ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes adds a noticeable but not overwhelming heat for most palates.
If you prefer things milder, reduce the red pepper flakes or omit them entirely. For more heat, feel free to add an extra pinch or two!
What kind of sausage is best for Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta?
For this Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta, we recommend a cooked chicken sausage. A mild Italian-style chicken sausage works beautifully, offering savory herbs without too much heat. You could also use a chicken and apple sausage for a touch of sweetness, or even a spicy chicken sausage if you want to dial up the fiery notes in your creamy pasta dish.
Can I make this Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta gluten-free, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Most major pasta brands now offer excellent gluten-free alternatives that hold up well in creamy sauces. The rest of the ingredients in this Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta recipe are naturally gluten-free.
Why did my sauce break or get greasy?
A broken or greasy sauce usually happens when the heat is too high, especially after adding the cream and cheese to your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta. Dairy can curdle, or cheese can separate its fats if overheated. Always keep the heat on low when simmering the cream and melting the cheese. Adding grated cheese gradually and stirring constantly also helps maintain a smooth, emulsified sauce for your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta.
Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is a delightful dish that brings comfort food to a new level with its robust flavors and creamy textures. Check out this delicious blend of ingredients, including pepper jack cheese, in this pasta recipe.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Please note: This nutrition information is an estimate based on the ingredients and serving size for Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta. Actual values may vary based on specific brands, preparation methods, and exact portion sizes.
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 650 kcal |
| Total Fat | 40 g |
| Saturated Fat | 22 g |
| Cholesterol | 140 mg |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Total Sugars | 4 g |
| Protein | 30 g |
Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is a hearty and flavorful weeknight meal, combining savory chicken, robust sausage, and a creamy pepper jack cheese sauce.
Ingredients
1 pound Penne pasta
1 tablespoon Olive oil
1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
12 ounces Cooked chicken sausage, sliced into rounds
1 large Yellow onion, finely chopped
4 cloves Garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dried Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon Red pepper flakes
½ cup Chicken broth
2 cups Heavy cream
8 ounces Pepper Jack cheese, freshly grated
½ cup Grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup Fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the starchy pasta water before draining
- Prepare the Chicken and Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken; add sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Sauté until soft, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes; stir for 1 minute
- Build the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet. Simmer for 1-2 minutes. Reduce heat to low, stir in the heavy cream, and warm through without boiling
- Melt the Cheese: Gradually add grated Pepper Jack and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper
- Combine Everything: Add cooked pasta, chicken, and sausage to the skillet. Toss gently to coat in sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan, if desired. Serve immediately
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce.
Reserve pasta water for adjusting sauce consistency.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 40 g
- Saturated Fat: 22 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 140 mg