Description
Looking for an easy dinner idea that brings serious flavor with minimal cleanup? This One-Pot Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Rotini is your answer. A comforting, quick dinner loaded with smoky sausage, tender chicken, and spiraled rotini all coated in a rich, creamy cheddar ranch sauce. It’s a perfect weeknight savior that works as both a hearty main course and a reheatable leftover option. Whether you’re searching for easy recipes, comfort food ideas, or quick one-pot meals, this dish delivers on taste, texture, and convenience. It’s cozy, cheesy, and satisfying — the kind of easy dinner you’ll crave on repeat.
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (optional for sautéing)
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onion
Instructions
- Heat a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add oil if needed, then brown sliced sausage for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add cubed chicken. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add chicken broth, milk, and ranch seasoning. Stir to combine.
- Add rotini pasta, ensuring it’s mostly submerged. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
- Lower heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese gradually until melted and creamy.
- Return cooked sausage to the pot and fold in. Let everything heat through for 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat, garnish if desired, and let sit 3-5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes