One-Pot Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Rotini

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This One-Pot Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Rotini is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights. Rich, creamy, and bursting with savory flavor, it combines tender chicken and smoky sausage with rotini pasta, all enveloped in a luscious cheddar ranch sauce. Each bite offers a satisfying mix of cheesy tang and hearty meatiness, making it a favorite for families and anyone craving a warm, soul-satisfying meal.

What makes this dish even better is how effortlessly it comes together. With everything cooked in a single pot, cleanup is minimal—leaving you with more time to relax and enjoy the food. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just prepping meals ahead of time, this cheesy, ranch-infused pasta is a delicious go-to that’ll keep everyone coming back for seconds.

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Ingredients for One-Pot Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Rotini

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (diced)
• 1 package (13 oz) smoked sausage (sliced)
• 3 cups dry rotini pasta
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

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Step 1: Sear the Chicken and Sausage

Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5–6 minutes. Add the sliced sausage to the pan and continue to cook for another 3–4 minutes, allowing the sausage to brown slightly and develop flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

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Step 2: Add Pasta and Liquids

Once the meats are seared, reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the dry rotini pasta, chicken broth, and milk. Stir in the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix everything well to combine and bring it to a gentle boil.

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Step 3: Simmer Until Pasta Is Cooked

Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot with a lid, and cook for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid burning or sticking. Cook until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed. If needed, add an extra splash of broth or milk for a creamier consistency.

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Step 4: Stir in the Cheeses

Turn off the heat and immediately stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth. Then fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is creamy and luscious. Make sure everything is evenly coated.

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Step 5: Final Touches and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot straight from the pot for a fuss-free, hearty dinner.

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Storage Instructions

To store leftovers of the One-Pot Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Rotini, first allow the dish to cool to room temperature. Transfer the pasta into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to help revive the creamy texture, especially if microwaving.

For freezing, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. Note: the texture of the cheese sauce may slightly change after freezing, but stirring well while reheating will help smooth it out.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: ~580 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Sodium: 980mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g

Note: Values may vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of sausage works best for this recipe?

Smoked sausage, like kielbasa or andouille, works wonderfully. You can also use turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.

Can I substitute the rotini with another pasta?

Yes! Penne, fusilli, or even macaroni can be used—just adjust the cooking time slightly as needed.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely. Add red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or use spicy sausage for a little heat.

What can I use instead of ranch seasoning?

You can use a blend of dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper if you prefer homemade seasoning.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, if you have leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken, add it during the sausage cooking step and continue as usual.

Will it still taste good without cream cheese?

Yes, though it won’t be as rich. You can use more shredded cheddar or add a splash of heavy cream for a creamy consistency.

How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much while simmering, simply add more broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I make this vegetarian?

You can! Skip the chicken and sausage, and use veggie broth and plant-based alternatives. Adding mushrooms or zucchini gives it a hearty feel.

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