One-Pot Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Sausage Rotini

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll fall in love with this recipe because it’s packed with flavor and convenience. The combination of chicken, sausage, and a creamy cheese sauce gives you a hearty and delicious meal, while the ranch seasoning adds a unique, tangy kick. It’s also a quick one-pot dish, which means less time spent cooking and cleaning up. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a satisfying meal, this dish is sure to please!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Protein:

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 1 lb sausage (Italian or smoked), sliced

Pasta & Broth:

• 1 lb rotini pasta
• 4 cups chicken broth

Cheese & Seasoning:

• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetables (Optional):

• 1 cup diced bell pepper
• 1 cup frozen peas

Other:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken & Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced chicken and sausage, cooking until browned and fully cooked.
2. Add Pasta & Broth: Stir in rotini pasta, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
3. Add Vegetables (Optional): If using bell peppers and peas, stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
4. Stir in Cheese: Remove from heat and mix in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve & Enjoy: Dish out hot and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to give your dish a spicy twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and sausage, and substitute with more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Different Cheeses: Try swapping the cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or a blend of your favorite cheeses to create a new flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the rotini pasta with gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up.

FAQs

How do I know when the pasta is done cooking?

The pasta should be tender but still slightly firm to the bite, also known as “al dente.” Check it after 10-12 minutes of simmering, and taste a piece to make sure it’s cooked to your liking.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it up to the point of adding the cheese and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, just heat it up, stir in the cheese, and garnish.

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Frozen chicken is fine, but make sure to thaw it first. Cooking frozen chicken directly may result in uneven cooking.

What kind of sausage is best for this recipe?

You can use either Italian sausage (spicy or mild) or smoked sausage, depending on your flavor preference. Both add great flavor!

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes! The creamy cheese sauce and mild ranch seasoning are typically a hit with kids. You can adjust the amount of ranch seasoning based on their taste preferences.

Can I use other pasta shapes?

Yes, you can substitute the rotini with any other pasta shape like penne, fusilli, or farfalle.

How can I make this dish lower in fat?

You can use reduced-fat cheese and chicken sausage to cut down on the fat content while still enjoying the creamy texture and flavor.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Store it in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?

Absolutely! You can add any vegetables you like, such as spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli, to make it even more nutritious.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is filling on its own, but you can serve it with a side of garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.

Conclusion

One-Pot Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Sausage Rotini is a simple, hearty meal that’s bursting with flavor. From the creamy cheese sauce to the savory sausage and chicken, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to enjoy with your family, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!