30-Minute Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Delight

Nothing comforts quite like a bowl of Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta. The name alone feels like a warm hug, doesn’t it? If you’re juggling carpool schedules, remote meetings, and the nightly “what’s for dinner?” panic—this pasta dish might just become your weeknight hero. It’s got the creamy kick of Pepper Jack cheese, the savory heartiness of sausage and chicken, and pasta that soaks up all the goodness like it was born for the job.

I first made this on a chilly Thursday night when we were all cranky, cold, and on the verge of cereal-for-dinner. But something magical happened. With one pan and a little simmering, the kitchen smelled like heaven, and everyone sat down to eat without complaints—or phones! That, my friend, is the power of creamy, cheesy pasta.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta

• One-skillet magic: Less mess = more me-time.
• Perfectly spicy: Pepper Jack brings just the right heat.
• Protein-packed: Chicken + sausage = hearty & satisfying.
• Family-approved: Even the picky eaters asked for seconds.
• 30-minute wonder: Because you’ve got things to do.

Curious about Pepper Jack cheese? Check out Allrecipes’ cheese glossary to explore other melty options

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Ingredients

• 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced (or any sausage you like)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1½ cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add sliced turkey sausage and cook until beautifully browned. Set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

To the same skillet, toss in diced chicken, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until chicken is cooked through.

3. Cook the Pasta

Boil a pot of salted water. Cook pasta according to package directions, then drain and set aside.

4. Build the Sauce

Add sausage back to the skillet. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir, and let simmer gently.

5. Melt the Cheese

Lower the heat and add both cheeses. Stir until everything is creamy and luscious.

6. Combine & Serve

Toss in the cooked pasta and stir to coat. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

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Melania’s Tips for Perfect Pepper Jack Pasta

• Cheese Tip: Shred your Pepper Jack from a block—it melts smoother than the pre-bagged stuff.
• Chicken Shortcut: Use rotisserie chicken if you’re in a time crunch.
• Spice Level: Like it hotter? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper.

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Bake It With the Littles

Cooking with kids? Let them:

• Stir the pasta.
• Sprinkle in the cheese.
• “Decorate” with parsley at the end.

Just keep the hot skillet duty to yourself—trust me on that.

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Meal-Prep Magic

• Make Ahead: Cook the full dish and store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in single portions—just thaw overnight and reheat with a splash of broth or cream.

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Healthier Swaps Without Losing the Magic

• Use whole wheat pasta for more fiber.
• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce.
• Go chicken sausage for a leaner protein.

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Leftover Remix

Got extra pasta? Try these:

• Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill halved bell peppers with leftover pasta and bake with cheese.
• Cheesy Pasta Bake: Top leftovers with more cheese and bake until bubbly.
• Lunch Wraps: Spoon into a wrap with greens for a savory lunch on the go.

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Gift It Like a Pro

Nothing says “thinking of you” like a warm, cheesy pasta casserole. Pour into a foil pan, top with extra cheese, and include a cute handwritten reheating note. Ideal for new moms, neighbors, or that friend who just had a week.

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FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! It reheats like a dream—just add a splash of cream or broth.

Is it too spicy for kids?
Pepper Jack has a little kick but isn’t overwhelming. If you’re worried, swap half of it with Monterey Jack.

Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, try mozzarella for a milder version or smoked gouda for a fun twist.

Do I have to use rotini or penne?
Nope! Any short pasta that holds sauce works—bowties, shells, you name it.

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Final Thought

This Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta isn’t just dinner—it’s a midweek miracle, a fridge-clearing champion, and a table-silencing, belly-warming bowl of comfort. If you’re craving more cozy dinners like this, don’t miss our creamy Tuscan chicken pasta or family-favorite sausage and spinach stuffed shells.

Now go make this, pour yourself a glass of something nice, and remember: you’re doing great, Mama.

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