🍲 One-Pot Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Sausage Rotini

Craving comfort food that’s quick, creamy, and bursting with flavor? This One-Pot Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Rotini is the perfect weeknight dinner solution. Made with juicy chicken, savory smoked sausage, and a cheesy ranch-infused sauce—all cooked in a single pot for easy cleanup.

🧀 Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds

• 1 medium yellow onion, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 2 cups uncooked rotini pasta

• 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)

• 1 cup milk (whole or 2% works best)

• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Sear the Chicken
   Heat a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and no longer pink in the center (about 5–6 minutes). Remove excess liquid if necessary.

2. Add Sausage and Veggies
   Toss in the smoked sausage, diced onion, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the sausage is lightly browned.

3. Incorporate Pasta and Liquid
   Stir in the uncooked rotini pasta, chicken broth, milk, and ranch seasoning mix. Mix well to combine.

4. Simmer and Cook
   Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a low simmer, cover, and cook for 12–15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed.

5. Add Cheese
   Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

6. Serve and Enjoy
   Serve hot with your favorite garnish—chopped parsley, extra cheese, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

🍽️ Nutritional Information (Per Serving, approx.)

• Calories: 450

• Fat: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 30g

• Protein: 32g

❓ 20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a different pasta?
   Yes, penne, fusilli, or shells work well.

2. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
   Absolutely. Just add it when you add the sausage.

3. What type of sausage is best?
   Smoked sausage or kielbasa offers the best flavor.

4. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Use a plant-based milk and vegan cheese substitute.

5. Is ranch seasoning gluten-free?
   Check the label—some brands are, others aren’t.

6. Can I prep this ahead of time?
   Yes! Cook and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

7. Can I freeze leftovers?
   Yes. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

8. How do I reheat this dish?
   Microwave or reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or milk.

9. Can I make this spicy?
   Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or spicy sausage.

10. What vegetables can I substitute?
    Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach are great additions.

11. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
    Not recommended due to the pasta texture, but possible with pre-cooked pasta.

12. Can I double the recipe?
    Yes, just use a large enough pot and adjust cooking time as needed.

13. Is it kid-friendly?
    Very! The cheesy ranch flavor is usually a hit with kids.

14. How do I make it more creamy?
    Add 2 oz cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.

15. Can I omit the sausage?
    Yes. Add more chicken or another protein like turkey or tofu.

16. Can I use frozen vegetables?
    Yes, thaw them first for best texture.

17. How long will it stay good in the fridge?
    Up to 4 days in an airtight container.

18. Can I use water instead of broth?
    You can, but broth adds more flavor.

19. What can I serve this with?
    Garlic bread, salad, or steamed veggies pair well.

20. Can I make it vegetarian?
    Yes! Skip the meat and add chickpeas or more veggies.

✅ 20 Pro Cooking Tips

1. Brown the chicken well for a deeper flavor base.

2. Slice sausage diagonally for a better sear and presentation.

3. Use a nonstick or enameled pan to prevent sticking and burning.

4. Grate your own cheese for smoother melting (avoid pre-shredded).

5. Let the sauce rest for 5 minutes before serving to thicken.

6. Add a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.

7. Deglaze the pan with a bit of broth after browning meat for added depth.

8. Don’t overcook the pasta—taste-test for al dente.

9. Use full-fat milk for a creamier sauce.

10. Stir occasionally while simmering to avoid sticking.

11. Try sharp or white cheddar for different flavor profiles.

12. Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavor.

13. Garnish with parsley or chives for a fresh touch.

14. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.

15. Pre-measure your ingredients for faster prep.

16. Use rotisserie chicken to cut down on cook time.

17. Stir in baby spinach at the end for a nutritional boost.

18. Cook onions until translucent to mellow their flavor.

19. Make it a casserole by transferring to a baking dish, topping with cheese, and broiling.

20. Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning perfectly.