Get ready to fall in love with this Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta, a dish that’s as indulgent as it is comforting. Imagine tender pasta coated in a luscious, spicy cheese sauce, dotted with golden chicken bites and smoky sausage slices. The pepper jack brings a mild heat, perfectly balanced by the creamy texture, making each bite irresistible.

This recipe is a weeknight savior when you’re craving something bold yet cozy. It’s quick to pull together and tastes like something you’d order at your favorite restaurant. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this pasta will earn a top spot in your dinner rotation.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or rigatoni work best here because they hold the creamy sauce beautifully. You can even use gluten-free or chickpea pasta if you want a twist. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when tossed in the sauce.

Ingredients for the Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta

Pepper Jack Cheese: This is the star, giving the sauce its creamy texture and mild spicy kick.
Pasta: Short shapes like penne or rotini grab the sauce in every curve.
Chicken Breast: Adds hearty protein; sear until golden for extra flavor.
Smoked Sausage: Brings a savory, smoky layer that pairs well with the cheese.
Heavy Cream: Makes the sauce rich and velvety.
Garlic & Onion: Build a flavor base that deepens the sauce.
Butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics.
Olive Oil: For cooking the chicken and sausage.
Seasonings (Paprika, Black Pepper, Salt): Enhance the heat and balance the flavors.

How To Make the Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta of choice until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken and Sausage

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken breast, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and sear until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside. In the same skillet, brown the sliced smoked sausage for a few minutes until crisp around the edges. Set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the skillet, and sauté finely chopped onion and minced garlic until soft and fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the pan. Slowly whisk in shredded pepper jack cheese, letting it melt into a smooth, spicy sauce. If needed, use a splash of reserved pasta water to thin it out.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken, sausage, and pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat every piece in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for a minute or two so all the flavors marry beautifully.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or an extra sprinkle of pepper jack. Serve hot, and get ready for compliments!

Serving and Storing Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta

Serve this pasta straight from the skillet for a cozy, family-style meal. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to round out the dinner table. If you like extra spice, sprinkle on red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.

For storing, let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the luscious texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

The pepper jack cheese gives it a mild heat. If you want more kick, add cayenne or extra paprika.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes! You can make the sauce and meat ahead, then boil fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze it?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Just note the sauce may separate slightly upon reheating; stir in extra cream to fix it.

What protein swaps work?

Try shrimp, ground turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a spicy gouda would also be delicious.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you’re loving this Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta, check out these other crave-worthy recipes:

One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a comforting, garlicky twist.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli packed with veggies and flavor.
Red Pepper Rigatoni if you want a bolder, creamy punch.
Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne for an elegant touch.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime.

And tell me how yours turned out! Did you go spicier, add veggies, or swap the protein? I love hearing your creative spins. Drop a comment or tag me so we can swap notes!

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Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, packed with tender chicken, smoky sausage, and pasta coated in a rich, spicy pepper jack cheese sauce. Perfect for cozy weeknights or impressing guests, this dish balances bold flavors with creamy indulgence.

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup pasta water.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and paprika, and sear until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, brown the smoked sausage slices until crisp at the edges. Set aside.

4. Reduce heat to medium, add butter, sauté onion and garlic until soft and fragrant.

5. Pour in heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the pan. Gradually whisk in pepper jack cheese until smooth and creamy. Thin with reserved pasta water if needed.

6. Return chicken, sausage, and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce and simmer for 1–2 minutes to blend flavors.

7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.