Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Beef Sausage Pasta

Welcome to the ultimate guide on making the perfect Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Beef Sausage Pasta! This hearty and comforting dish is a favorite among many, and for good reason. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for those chilly evenings when you need something warm and satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will have you whipping up a delicious pot of Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Beef Sausage Pasta in no time.

(Note: the recipe card directly below.PDF )

Why You’ll Love This Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Beef Sausage Pasta

There are so many reasons to love this Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Beef Sausage Pasta recipe. First and foremost, it’s incredibly flavorful. The combination of tender chicken, smoky beef sausage, and creamy cheddar ranch sauce creates a symphony of tastes that will have your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup for you!

But that’s not all. This pasta is also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to add more vegetables, swap out the chicken for turkey, or make it vegetarian, the options are endless.

And let’s not forget about the leftovers. This pasta tastes even better the next day, making it the perfect meal prep option. Just reheat and enjoy!

Ingredients for Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Beef Sausage Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Beef Sausage Pasta:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb beef sausage, sliced
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• (Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Variations

One of the best things about this Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Beef Sausage Pasta recipe is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few variations you might want to try:

• Vegetarian Smoky Cheddar Ranch Pasta: Swap out the chicken and beef sausage for a plant-based alternative or add extra vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini.
• Spicy Smoky Cheddar Ranch Pasta: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for a kick of heat.
• Creamy Smoky Cheddar Ranch Pasta: Stir in an extra cup of heavy cream before serving for a creamier texture.
• Slow Cooker Smoky Cheddar Ranch Pasta: Throw all the ingredients into a slow cooker and let it simmer for 6-8 hours on low.

How to Make Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Beef Sausage Pasta

Making Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Beef Sausage Pasta is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way:

1. Cook the Chicken and Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and beef sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Cook the Pasta: Add the pasta, heavy cream, chicken broth, ranch seasoning mix, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the pasta cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
4. Add the Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Combine: Return the chicken and beef sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Serve: Transfer the pasta to plates and top with your favorite toppings. Enjoy!

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to make your Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Beef Sausage Pasta even better:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh vegetables and herbs for the best flavor.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the pasta as it cooks and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to suit your taste.
• Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water) before serving.
• Freeze Leftovers: This pasta freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

How to Serve

Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Beef Sausage Pasta is a hearty meal on its own, but it’s even better with a few sides. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Bread: Serve with a crusty loaf of bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping.
• Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• Toppings: Don’t forget the toppings! Chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes are all great options.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Beef Sausage Pasta is perfect for meal prepping. Here’s how to make it ahead and store it:

• Make Ahead: You can make the pasta up to 3 days in advance. Just let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Reheat: Reheat the pasta on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave.
• Freeze: To freeze, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta in a slow cooker?

Yes! Just throw all the ingredients into a slow cooker and let it simmer for 6-8 hours on low.

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely. You can swap out the chicken for ground turkey or turkey sausage.

Is this pasta gluten-free?

This pasta can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and ensuring all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Yes, this pasta freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months.

How can I make this pasta spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño for a kick of heat.

Can I add more vegetables?

Of course! Feel free to add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

Conclusion

And there you have it—the ultimate guide to making delicious Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Beef Sausage Pasta. This hearty and comforting dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a satisfying lunch to meal prep, this pasta has you covered. So, grab your ingredients and get cooking! Your taste buds will thank you.

Happy cooking!

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