Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Skillet

There are nights when we crave a meal that’s hearty, creamy, and just a little bit spicy—the kind that fills your belly and warms your soul. That’s exactly what you get with this Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Skillet.

It’s a one-pan wonder packed with juicy chicken, smoky sausage, tender pasta, and a creamy sauce laced with Pepper Jack cheese. Think of it as comfort food with a kick—something to break up the weeknight dinner rut without requiring a full day in the kitchen.

Plus, it’s fast! In under an hour, you’ll have a bubbling skillet of cheesy goodness on the table, with minimal dishes (because who wants to spend the whole night scrubbing pots?). Whether it’s a family dinner, meal prep for the week, or a dish to impress friends, this pasta skillet checks all the boxes.

Grab your skillet and let’s make some magic!

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

• One skillet = less cleanup (hallelujah!).
• Creamy with a kick: Pepper Jack brings just the right heat.
• Hearty proteins: Both chicken breast and sausage make it filling.
• Family favorite: Kids love the cheesy pasta, adults love the spice.
• Meal-prep friendly: Stores beautifully for leftovers.

Ingredients

Proteins:

• 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

Pasta:

• 12 oz rotini or penne pasta

Liquids:

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream

Cheeses:

• 1½ cups shredded Pepper Jack cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Aromatics & Seasoning:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced chicken sausage. Cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook Chicken & Aromatics

In the same skillet, add diced chicken breasts, onion, and garlic. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook 5–7 minutes, until chicken is no longer pink.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While chicken cooks, boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Return sausage to the skillet. Add chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping the bottom to release browned bits. Bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

Lower heat slightly. Stir in Pepper Jack and Parmesan until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Combine & Serve

Add drained pasta. Toss to coat in sauce. Let sit 2 minutes to thicken. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Melania’s Tips for Perfect Pasta Skillet

• Want it creamier? Add an extra splash of cream.
• Prefer milder heat? Use Monterey Jack instead of Pepper Jack.
• Don’t skimp on the browning step—it adds flavor depth!
• Reserve some pasta water in case you want to thin the sauce.

Bake It With the Littles

Kids love getting involved here! Let them:

• Stir the pasta into the creamy sauce.
• Sprinkle the cheese into the skillet.
• Garnish with parsley (or toss it into the air like confetti).

Cooking together turns dinner into family time—and sneaks in some fun kitchen skills.

Meal-Prep Magic

• Make ahead: Cooks up beautifully, then reheats like a dream.
• Storage: Keeps 3–4 days in the fridge in airtight containers.
• Reheat: Microwave with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
• Freezer-friendly: Freeze portions for up to 2 months.

Healthier Swaps Without Losing the Magic

• Use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra fiber.
• Sub half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Swap in turkey sausage for less fat.
• Add spinach or broccoli for a veggie boost.

Leftover Remix

• Cheesy Pasta Bake: Spread leftovers in a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and cheese, bake until bubbly.
• Soup Starter: Stir into chicken broth for a quick creamy pasta soup.
• Lunch Wrap: Stuff into a tortilla with extra cheese for a quick pasta wrap.

Gift It Like a Pro

Portion into glass containers and tie with ribbon and a note: “Heat and eat—comfort in every bite.” A wonderful gift for new parents or neighbors.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely—penne, shells, or rigatoni all work great.

Is it very spicy?
Pepper Jack has a mild kick. For less spice, use Monterey Jack. For more, add red pepper flakes.

Can I make it ahead?
Yes! This skillet is perfect for meal prep—store and reheat as needed.

Do I need to use both chicken and sausage?
Nope! You can use just one protein if you prefer.

Final Thought

This Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta Skillet is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—easy, cheesy, hearty, and just a little spicy. It’s the kind of dish that satisfies the whole table without leaving you buried in dishes. One skillet, endless comfort.

If you loved this skillet recipe, you’ll also enjoy my Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for another zesty, creamy pasta favorite.

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