What type of pasta works best in creamy recipes?

Short, ridged pasta shapes like rotini , penne , or cavatappi are ideal for creamy sauces. These shapes trap the sauce in their twists and grooves, making each bite flavorful and satisfying. That’s exactly why Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta calls for rotini or penne—they hold onto the bold, cheesy sauce better than smooth or long noodles. Avoid delicate shapes like angel hair or linguine, which tend to clump and can’t carry a thick sauce well.

Can I make this with just chicken or just sausage?

Absolutely. Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is versatile. If you’re out of one protein—or prefer to use only one—this dish still works beautifully. Only chicken : The result is leaner and milder in flavor. You may want to increase the seasoning slightly or add a dash of paprika. Only sausage : This version is bolder and smokier. Be sure to adjust salt carefully, as sausage is typically saltier than chicken. Either way, the creamy sauce ties it all together, so you're not losing the comfort—just tailoring it to your pantry or taste.

How spicy is Pepper Jack cheese?

Pepper Jack cheese has a mild-to-medium spice level. It includes jalapeño peppers and other seasonings for a gentle kick—not overwhelming, but noticeable. In Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta , the spice is balanced by the cream and Parmesan, making it kid-friendly while still flavorful for adults. Want more heat? Add crushed red pepper or swap turkey sausage for spicy andouille. Want less? Mix in mozzarella or reduce the Pepper Jack by half.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, with smart substitutions. Although the rich, creamy sauce is a star, you can still enjoy a dairy-free version of Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta . Try these swaps: Use unsweetened oat milk or cashew cream instead of heavy cream. Replace cheese with a dairy-free Pepper Jack-style cheese , like those made by Violife or Daiya. Look for plant-based Parmesan to finish the dish. Keep in mind, you may need to thicken the sauce with a bit of flour or starch since dairy-free cheeses melt differently.

Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta – The Most Irresistible 1-Pot Meal

Name: How To Make Ultimate Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 onion, chopped; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 8 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked); 1 1/2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

Description

Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is a one-pan wonder loaded with juicy chicken, smoky sausage, and a kick of heat from melty pepper jack cheese. It’s rich, creamy, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner with bold flavor in every bite!

Ingredients

Scale

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
8 oz smoked sausage, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 onion, chopped
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
8 oz penne or rotini pasta (uncooked)
1 1/2 cups shredded pepper jack cheese
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

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Instructions

In a large skillet or deep sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, add sliced sausage and cook until browned. Add onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 2–3 minutes.
Return chicken to the pan. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, uncooked pasta, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Stir in pepper jack cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve hot!

Notes

For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
Use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Substitute half-and-half for a lighter cream sauce if preferred.
This dish makes great leftovers — just reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 620
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 870mg
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 145mg