Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (any short pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
- 1 cup cooked sausage, sliced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 1 cup shredded smoky cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat, add uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and milk or cream. Stir to combine.
- Mix in the ranch seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the cooked chicken and sausage. Cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Lower the heat and stir in the shredded smoky cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with parsley or green onions if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat.
- Swap in sharp cheddar or a cheddar-jack blend for different flavor.
- Stir in veggies like peas, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
- Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to keep the sauce creamy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
