🧄 Smoky Cheddar Ranch Blend: A Creamy, Cheesy One-Pot Wonder
This Smoky Cheddar Ranch Blend is a bold and comforting one-pot meal that combines juicy chicken, smoky sausage, creamy ranch-seasoned sauce, and melty cheddar cheese. It’s a weeknight dinner favorite that’s ready in under 40 minutes—and it’s all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup!
đź›’ Ingredients:
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
12 oz penne or rotini pasta
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
🍳 Instructions: How to Make Smoky Cheddar Ranch Blend
Step 1: Sauté the Meats
In a large pot or deep skillet, sauté diced chicken breast over medium heat until lightly browned (4–5 minutes). Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until both are cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent (about 3 minutes). Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Add uncooked pasta, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning mix to the pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar. Return the cooked chicken and sausage to the pot and mix well. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until everything is hot, creamy, and blended.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar or fresh parsley if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad and crusty bread
Top with crispy bacon bits or crushed red pepper for extra flavor
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
🧀 Why You’ll Love It
This Smoky Cheddar Ranch Blend hits every comfort food note: smoky, cheesy, creamy, and satisfying. With ranch flavor running through every bite and a hint of garlic, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser that feeds the whole family.
❄️ Storage & Reheat Tips
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw overnight and reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or cream
Reheat: Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, or warm gently on the stove