One-Pot Smoky Cheddar Ranch Chicken & Sausage Pasta

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

• 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp chili powder

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup milk or cream

• 8 oz uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)

• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tbsp homemade)

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook chicken and sausage: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and chili powder, and cook until browned. Add sausage and cook for 2–3 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.

2. Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened.

3. Add liquids and pasta: Pour in chicken broth and milk/cream. Stir in ranch seasoning. Bring to a gentle boil, then add uncooked pasta. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

4. Combine and cheese: Return chicken and sausage to the skillet. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.

5. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or chives and serve immediately.