One-Pan Buffalo Ranch Chicken & Sausage Pasta

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Creamy, spicy, and packed with bold flavor—this One-Pan Buffalo Ranch Chicken & Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish that’s as satisfying to make as it is to devour. It brings together tender chicken, smoky sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a luscious buffalo ranch cream sauce that clings to every bite. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or simply want a one-dish wonder for a weeknight meal, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal cleanup.

What makes this dish stand out is its fusion of hearty proteins with the zesty tang of buffalo sauce and the cool creaminess of ranch. The penne pasta soaks up every drop of the velvety sauce, while bits of seared sausage and juicy shredded chicken bring savory depth. It’s a crowd-pleasing meal that hits every note—spicy, creamy, cheesy, and just a touch smoky.

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Ingredients for One-Pan Buffalo Ranch Chicken & Sausage Pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, sliced or shredded
• 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 12 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Step 1: Sear the Proteins

Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 3–4 minutes. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, add the chicken breast, seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Cook until golden and fully cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Shred or slice the chicken as desired.

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Step 2: Build the Creamy Base

Reduce the heat to medium. To the pan with the cooked chicken, pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir everything together, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.

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Step 3: Add the Pasta

Add the uncooked penne pasta directly into the sauce. Stir well to coat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the pan and cook for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has mostly absorbed.

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Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Once the pasta is tender, stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is rich and creamy. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it.

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Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the seared sausage to the pan and stir to combine with the cheesy pasta and chicken. Simmer everything together for another 2–3 minutes to meld the flavors. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

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Storage Instructions

To keep your One-Pan Buffalo Ranch Chicken & Sausage Pasta fresh and flavorful, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to help revive the creamy texture. Microwave in short intervals or reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

This dish is not the best candidate for freezing due to the dairy content in the sauce, which may separate upon thawing. However, if you must freeze it, allow it to cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as instructed.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 6 servings total):

• Calories: 640
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Cholesterol: 135mg
• Sodium: 1180mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and ingredient quantities.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of sausage should I use?

Smoked sausage, like andouille or kielbasa, works best for this recipe due to its bold flavor and firm texture.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Absolutely! Use a mild buffalo sauce or reduce the quantity. You can also skip the cayenne pepper entirely.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken works great. Just add it after the sauce is made and heat through.

Is it okay to use a different type of pasta?

Totally! Penne holds the sauce well, but you can substitute rotini, rigatoni, or even elbows.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can try using dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives, but the sauce may have a slightly different texture.

What vegetables could I add?

Great additions include spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Add them in during the simmering stage with the pasta.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, make it up to 2 days in advance and store in the fridge. Reheat with a bit of cream to freshen up the sauce.

How do I make it extra cheesy?

For more indulgence, add extra cheddar or even a dollop of cream cheese during the final steps.

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