Description
Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort meal: Creamy Cheesy Ranch Chicken & Smoked Sausage Pasta Skillet. This easy dinner recipe blends juicy chicken breast, savory smoked sausage, and tender pasta all tossed in a luscious, ranch-seasoned cheese sauce. It’s the perfect one-skillet solution for busy weeknights, meal-prepping champions, or anyone craving hearty, satisfying food ideas. From the creamy texture to the smoky undertones and bold ranch flavor, every bite feels like a hug. Whether you’re looking for quick breakfast-for-dinner options, cozy dinner ideas, or the ultimate easy recipe to impress—this skillet has you covered.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil (for cooking)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1/2 tsp garlic powder or onion powder
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Brown the smoked sausage slices until crispy on the edges. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook the chicken slices with a pinch of salt and pepper until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add butter and cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted.
- Slowly whisk in milk, followed by ranch seasoning. Stir until smooth.
- Add shredded cheddar cheese and mix until the sauce is fully melted and creamy.
- Return pasta, chicken, and sausage to the skillet. Toss everything together and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Let sit for a minute before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes