Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta

Featured in Hearty Main Courses.

Tender chicken and smoked sausage are combined with al dente penne, then all are enveloped in a silky pepper jack cheese sauce with a hint of spice. Sautéed garlic, butter, and cream create a rich foundation, while parmesan adds extra depth. The hearty textures and mild heat from red pepper flakes balance perfectly, making this a comforting main course. Garnish with fresh parsley to add brightness and serve hot for maximum flavor enjoyment. It's an inviting dish fit for sharing, perfect for those craving something creamy with a flavorful kick.

Ranah
Updated on Mon, 19 May 2025 21:17:41 GMT
A pan of pasta with chicken and sausage. Pin it
A pan of pasta with chicken and sausage. | yummyflavorsrecipes.com

Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta has become my go-to comfort dinner when I want a dish that is both satisfying and bursting with flavor. Between the melt-in-your-mouth cheese sauce and the hearty bites of chicken and sausage, this pasta makes even a regular weeknight feel a bit special.

I still remember making this after a long workday and realizing how much a homemade sauce can turn around your mood. Now everyone in my house looks forward to pasta night.

Ingredients

  • Olive oil: gives the chicken and sausage a golden sear while adding flavor Choose extra virgin for depth
  • Boneless skinless chicken breast: offers lean hearty bites Look for chicken that is firm and pink with no unpleasant odor
  • Smoked sausage: brings a savory richness and a little smoky note Pick a good quality one with natural casing if you can
  • Garlic powder and onion powder: layer in flavor without extra chopping
  • Smoked paprika: deepens the sauce and adds warmth Opt for fresh ground for best color and aroma
  • Salt and pepper: bring balance and make all the flavors pop Use kosher or sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Penne pasta: is sturdy and catches the sauce well Whole wheat or traditional work fine just cook to al dente
  • Butter: enhances the sauce’s silkiness Use real butter for the best result
  • Fresh garlic: infuses the sauce when sautéed for heightened flavor Choose firm unblemished cloves
  • Heavy cream: creates the ultimate creaminess Select full-fat for a luscious finish
  • Chicken broth: builds savory depth Low sodium lets you control seasoning
  • Pepper jack cheese: melts smoothly and gives a peppery boost Freshly shred for best results
  • Parmesan cheese: sharpens the flavor and adds a salty bite True Parmigiano Reggiano if possible
  • Crushed red pepper flakes: add a gentle heat Adjust to your desired spice level
  • Fresh parsley: brings a bright fresh touch and color Use flat leaf if you have it

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Boil penne pasta in a large pot of salted water until just al dente This keeps it from going mushy once it hits the sauce Drain and set aside but reserve a splash of cooking water in case you want to thin your sauce later
Brown the Meats:
Warm olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat Add chicken pieces and sausage slices Sprinkle with garlic powder onion powder smoked paprika salt and pepper
Let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes so a nice golden crust forms on the meat This is where so much flavor develops
Stir and continue cooking until both chicken and sausage are cooked through and browned about eight minutes
Transfer the meats to a plate and set aside
Build the Sauce Base:
Turn heat down to medium Add butter to the same skillet and let it melt Toss in the minced garlic and stir continuously for one to two minutes until fragrant but not browned
Slowly whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the pan
Let the mixture come to a low simmer for a few minutes to marry the flavors
Melt in the Cheese:
Begin adding freshly grated pepper jack cheese and parmesan cheese a little at a time Stir constantly to encourage smooth melting
Wait for each addition to fully melt before adding more so the sauce stays creamy and lump free
Add the crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for gentle warmth
Combine and Finish:
Return the chicken sausage and drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce Use tongs or a spoon to toss everything together until the pasta is well coated
Let the pasta simmer in the sauce for another two to three minutes to thicken slightly and allow all the flavors to meld
Serve and Garnish:
Spoon the creamy pepper jack pasta onto plates Finish each serving with a little extra parsley for color and a fresh zing Serve hot and savor
A plate of food with chicken, pasta, and tomatoes. Pin it
A plate of food with chicken, pasta, and tomatoes. | yummyflavorsrecipes.com

My favorite part is always the creamy spicy sauce A sprinkle more pepper jack on top is my personal guilty pleasure When I made this for my cousin she loved how the sausage and chicken come together in every bite

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days The sauce may thicken as it chills but a splash of cream or broth when reheating brings it right back Creamy pastas do best when reheated gently on the stove or in the microwave at reduced power

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap in rotisserie chicken for the chicken breast to save time Try turkey sausage or even a plant-based sausage if you like things lighter If pepper jack is too spicy for your crew try Monterey Jack for a milder but still super creamy pasta

Serving Suggestions

This pasta is hearty on its own but I love serving it with a fresh green salad or roasted broccoli for balance Garlic bread on the side makes dinner feel extra special and helps scoop up every last bit of sauce

Cultural or Historical Context

Creamy pastas have long been comfort dishes in American kitchens blending Italian roots with our love for bold cheese and big flavor This particular pepper jack version feels like a celebration of classic mac and cheese all grown up

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne with other short pastas like rigatoni or rotini. Adjust cooking times as needed for the chosen shape.

→ Is it possible to use pre-shredded cheese?

Freshly grated pepper jack melts smoother and prevents a grainy sauce, but pre-shredded cheese can be used for convenience.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.

→ What type of smoked sausage works best?

Andouille or kielbasa are excellent choices, lending subtle smokiness to complement the creamy sauce.

→ How can I add more heat?

Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños for extra spice in each bite.

Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta

Chicken, sausage, and penne pasta smothered in creamy pepper jack cheese sauce with a touch of heat.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
25 Minutes
Total Time
35 Minutes
By: Ranah

Category: Hearty Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Main Ingredients

01 2 tablespoons olive oil
02 1 pound (450 g) boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
03 225 g smoked sausage, sliced
04 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 1 teaspoon onion powder
06 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
07 Salt and pepper, to taste
08 340 g penne pasta
09 1 tablespoon butter
10 3 cloves garlic, minced
11 480 ml heavy cream
12 240 ml chicken broth
13 170 g shredded pepper jack cheese
14 50 g grated parmesan cheese
15 0.25 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
16 Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Step 01

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente per package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 02

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken breast and smoked sausage. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 03

Reduce skillet heat to medium. Add butter, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 04

Pour heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet. Stir gently and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add shredded pepper jack and parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Incorporate crushed red pepper flakes.

Step 05

Return the browned chicken, sausage, and cooked penne to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss until the ingredients are evenly coated.

Step 06

Allow the pasta to simmer over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes to meld the flavors. Garnish generously with chopped parsley and serve piping hot.

Notes

  1. Freshly grated pepper jack cheese produces a smoother, silkier sauce texture.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Pasta pot
  • Cooking spoon
  • Cheese grater
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains milk and cheese (dairy).
  • Contains wheat (gluten) in pasta.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 875
  • Total Fat: 53 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 64 g
  • Protein: 44 g