If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances bold flavors with comforting creaminess, this Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Imagine tender chicken and savory sausage mingled with a luscious sauce made from melted Pepper Jack and Parmesan cheeses, all wrapped around perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a feast of textures and tastes, with just the right amount of kick from the Pepper Jack that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds. Simple ingredients come together in a magical way to create a meal that’s as impressive as it is easy to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe has a special role — from the spicy Pepper Jack cheese that adds a creamy kick, to the savory sausage and tender chicken that give the dish its hearty backbone. These simple yet flavorful staples work hand-in-hand to deliver a satisfying, colorful pasta dish.
- Turkey sausage (1 lb): Adds smoky, savory depth—feel free to swap with your favorite sausage for a personal touch.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 lb): Offers tender, juicy protein that soaks up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Rotini or penne pasta (12 oz): Perfect shapes to hold onto every bit of that delicious cheesy sauce.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): Provides a flavorful base for the sauce, keeping it rich yet light.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Gives the dish its irresistible creamy texture and silky finish.
- Pepper Jack cheese (1½ cups shredded): The star ingredient with its meltiness and subtle spice.
- Parmesan cheese (½ cup grated): Adds a salty, nutty depth that complements the Pepper Jack.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing to create a golden sear on the sausage and chicken.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Brings sweetness and aromatic flavor to build a tasty foundation.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Elevates the dish with its irresistible fragrance and punch.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A blend of herbs that ties all the flavors together perfectly.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning to bring all the ingredients into harmony.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Adds a bright splash of color and fresh herbal notes at the end.
How to Make Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the turkey sausage slices and cook them until they’re beautifully browned on both sides. This step is crucial for building a rich, savory flavor base. Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside. The browned bits left behind will infuse your dish with extra flavor in later steps.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken, Onion, and Garlic
Using the same skillet for every layer of flavor, add the diced chicken along with the onion and garlic. Season them with Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything occasionally for about 5 to 7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. The onions will soften and the garlic will release its intoxicating aroma, creating the perfect flavor foundation for your sauce.
Step 3: Prepare the Pasta
While your proteins are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini or penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente — perfectly firm to the bite, so it doesn’t get mushy once mixed with the sauce. Once done, drain the pasta well and set it aside to be combined with the sauce later.
Step 4: Simmer the Sauce Base
Return your browned sausage to the skillet with the cooked chicken mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to blend the flavors. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. This process helps the liquids reduce slightly and intensify in flavor, preparing the perfect canvas for melting cheese.
Step 5: Melt the Cheese for Creaminess
Reduce the heat and stir in the shredded Pepper Jack cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until both cheeses have melted completely, creating a smooth and creamy sauce. The spicy warmth of the Pepper Jack pairs beautifully with the salty, nutty Parmesan, making this sauce every bit as indulgent as it sounds.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Now, add the drained pasta directly into your skillet and toss everything together gently but thoroughly. The pasta absorbs the creamy, cheesy sauce, wrapping every bite in rich flavor. This step is where all your hard work comes together as a cohesive, irresistible meal.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Dish out your Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe onto warm plates and sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley. Not only does the parsley add a vibrant pop of green, but it also provides a fresh flavor contrast to the rich sauce. Serve immediately while it’s warm and creamy for the best experience.
How to Serve Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic finishing touch, giving a pleasant herbal brightness and eye-catching color. If you want to add a little extra flair, try a dash of red pepper flakes for heat, or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for a cheesy upgrade. These simple garnishes elevate the dish and make it feel special.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta pairs beautifully with crisp green salads dressed in light vinaigrettes to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a warm focaccia also make perfect companions, helping to scoop up any leftover creamy sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus add fresh texture and brighten the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties, serve the pasta family-style in a shallow, wide serving dish so guests can easily help themselves. Drizzle a little extra olive oil and scatter chopped parsley right at the table. Alternatively, plate individual servings in deep bowls to showcase the gooey sauce and colorful sausage pieces. Adding edible flowers or microgreens can make it name-worthy for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cool down any leftover Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe quickly and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld nicely over time, but the creaminess might thicken, so a gentle reheat with a splash of milk or broth helps bring back that luscious texture.
Freezing
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh because cream-based sauces can separate when frozen. However, if you need to freeze it, do so in a tightly sealed container and consume within 1 month. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating carefully on the stovetop.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently over low heat, stirring often, and adding a little milk, cream, or broth to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid microwaving at very high power to prevent curdling. This way, you’ll keep the sauce silky smooth and the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use Italian sausage, chorizo, or even plant-based sausage to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Each type will add its unique flavor to the dish.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a tablespoon of flour to thicken, but the sauce might be slightly less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free option, try canned coconut milk, but expect a different flavor profile.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
How spicy is the Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe?
Pepper Jack cheese offers a mild to moderate spicy kick that is flavorful but not overwhelming. If you prefer more heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes; if less, opt for a milder cheese blend.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a crowd?
You can prep the sausage, chicken, and sauce ahead and refrigerate separately. Cook the pasta just before serving to avoid it becoming mushy. Then, combine and warm everything through for a quick, crowd-pleasing meal.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe is truly a celebration of flavor and comfort that’s easy enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests. Every bite is packed with creamy, cheesy goodness and the right touch of spice. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe—it’s a wonderful way to bring some warmth and excitement to your dinner table. I promise this one will become a beloved favorite in your recipe rotation!
Print
Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish featuring tender chicken and savory turkey sausage cooked in a rich, cheesy sauce made with Pepper Jack and Parmesan cheeses. Tossed with al dente pasta and finished with fresh parsley, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of spice and creaminess for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced (or any sausage of your preference)
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Pasta and Dairy
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Liquids and Seasonings
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced turkey sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside to retain the flavorful juices in the pan.
- Sauté chicken with aromatics: In the same skillet, add the diced chicken, diced onion, and minced garlic. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink.
- Cook the pasta: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini or penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Combine sausage and liquids: Return the browned sausage to the skillet with the cooked chicken mixture. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat to meld the flavors.
- Create the creamy cheese sauce: Lower the heat and gradually stir in the shredded Pepper Jack cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheeses are fully melted, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Toss pasta in sauce: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently to evenly coat the pasta with the creamy cheese sauce, ensuring all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Garnish and serve: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage with any sausage of your choice, such as Italian or smoked sausage.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes with the Italian seasoning.
- Use rotini or penne pasta as they hold the sauce well, but other short pasta shapes also work.
- Leftover pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore sauce consistency.
