Name: Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked penne pasta; 1/2 lb beef sausage, sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups milk; 1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional: red pepper flakes or chopped parsley for garnish

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Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is one of those comforting, flavor-packed meals I like to make when I want something rich, satisfying, and full of bold personality. With tender pasta, spicy beef sausage, juicy chicken, and a creamy pepper jack cheese sauce, this dish brings heat and comfort in every bite—perfect for weeknights when I need something indulgent but easy to pull together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this pasta brings together bold flavors and creamy textures in one skillet. The pepper jack cheese gives it just the right amount of kick, while the sausage adds smokiness and depth. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken, and I can have it on the table in under 30 minutes. Plus, it reheats like a dream, making it great for leftovers or lunch the next day.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups cooked penne pasta
1/2 lb beef sausage, sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded or cubed
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk
1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes or chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

Sauté the Sausage
I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the sliced beef sausage. I cook it until browned and slightly crisp, about 5–6 minutes. Then I remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, I melt the butter, then whisk in the flour to create a roux. I cook it for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Add the Milk and Seasoning
Slowly, I whisk in the milk, stirring until smooth. I add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. I let the sauce simmer and thicken for 3–4 minutes.
Melt the Cheese
I stir in the shredded pepper jack cheese and let it melt into the sauce, creating a creamy, spicy base.
Combine Everything
I return the sausage to the skillet, add the cooked chicken and pasta, and stir until everything is coated in the sauce and heated through.
Serve It Up
I plate the pasta hot and, if I want extra heat or color, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or chopped parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. It takes roughly 10 minutes to prep and another 15 minutes to cook, making the total time about 25 minutes.

Variations

Switch the pasta: I sometimes use rotini, fettuccine, or rigatoni instead of penne.
Go spicier: I use hot Italian sausage or add diced jalapeños for extra fire.
Add vegetables: Spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms make great additions.
Use different cheese: Monterey Jack or a cheddar blend can be used if I want something milder.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, or warm it on the stovetop with a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess. I avoid high heat, as it can break the sauce.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I prep everything in advance and reheat when ready to serve. Just keep the sauce creamy with a little extra milk when reheating.

What kind of sausage works best?

I prefer smoked beef sausage for its bold flavor, but chicken sausage or even spicy andouille works great too.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

I can, but I usually shred it myself for better melting. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce texture.

How spicy is the pepper jack?

It has a mild to moderate heat, just enough to give the dish some character. I add red pepper flakes if I want it spicier.

Is this good for meal prep?

Definitely. I portion it out in containers and it holds up well in the fridge for several days.

Conclusion

Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken & Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy twist. It’s rich, filling, and bursting with flavor, making it a regular in my dinner rotation. Whether I’m cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this pasta always satisfies my craving for something warm, cheesy, and just a little fiery.