Creamy Buffalo Ranch Sausage & Chicken Pasta

The aroma of sizzling sausage and buffalo sauce always reminds me of Friday night football games back in Texas. There’s something so comforting about a creamy, spicy pasta dish, especially after a long week. This Creamy Buffalo Ranch Sausage & Chicken Pasta is a family favorite – even my picky eaters gobble it up! I’ve made this recipe at least a dozen times in my kitchen, tweaking it until it’s just right. If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal, this is it. I promise you’ll love how easy it is to make!

Why This Recipe Works

Life as a mom in Texas is busy, busy, busy! That’s why I love recipes that are quick, easy, and satisfying. This Creamy Buffalo Ranch Sausage & Chicken Pasta checks all those boxes. Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Quick & Easy: It’s ready in under 30 minutes – perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Kid-Friendly (with adjustments): My kids love the creamy sauce, and I can easily adjust the spice level to suit their palates.
• Versatile: You can easily swap out the sausage or chicken for other proteins or veggies.
• Make-Ahead Potential: The sauce can be made ahead of time, making dinner even faster.

I’ve tested this recipe countless times, and each time, it’s a hit! The creamy buffalo ranch sauce is the star, coating every strand of pasta with flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
• 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce (I use Frank’s RedHot)
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about why these ingredients matter and some possible substitutions:

• Pasta: I prefer penne or rotini because they hold the sauce well. Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
• Sausage: Italian sausage adds a ton of flavor. You can use mild, sweet, or hot Italian sausage, depending on your preference. You can also substitute with ground beef or turkey.
• Chicken: I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience, but you can also use chicken thighs.
• Buffalo Wing Sauce: Frank’s RedHot is my go-to for that classic buffalo flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount to your desired spice level.
• Ranch Dressing: Use your favorite brand of ranch dressing. I often use a homemade ranch dressing for a more authentic flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Heavy cream adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. You can substitute with half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as thick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to make this delicious pasta:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage and Chicken.

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Add the chicken and cook until cooked through and lightly browned.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic.

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Sauce.

Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream, buffalo wing sauce, and ranch dressing. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Parmesan.

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Expert Tips from My Kitchen

Here are some tips and tricks I’ve learned from making this recipe countless times:

• Don’t overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better and absorbs the sauce perfectly.
• Adjust the spice level: If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a smaller amount of buffalo wing sauce and add more to taste.
• Add veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach, to the skillet along with the onion and garlic.
• Make it creamy: For an extra creamy sauce, add a tablespoon of cream cheese or mascarpone cheese.
• Use leftover cooked chicken: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken. Simply add it to the skillet along with the sausage.
• Spice it up with red pepper flakes: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Kid-friendly tip: Serve a side of plain pasta for kids who don’t like the buffalo sauce.

Storage & Meal Prep

Here’s how to store, reheat, and prep this Creamy Buffalo Ranch Sausage & Chicken Pasta:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pasta in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to help loosen the sauce.
• Make-Ahead: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and add it to the reheated sauce.
• Batch Prep: Double or triple the recipe and freeze individual portions for quick and easy meals.

Substitutions & Variations

Want to mix things up? Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free milk alternative. Use a dairy-free ranch dressing.
• Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and chicken and add extra vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Creamy Pesto: Swap the buffalo sauce and ranch for pesto for a completely different flavor profile. I haven’t personally tested this variation, but I think it would be delicious!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply cook the pasta and combine it with the sauce. This makes it a perfect option for busy weeknights.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Also, ensure that the juices run clear when you cut into the thickest part of the chicken.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While Parmesan cheese is my go-to, you can also use mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend of cheeses. Experiment and find your favorite combination.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, with a few adjustments. Reduce the amount of buffalo wing sauce or use a mild buffalo sauce. You can also serve a side of plain pasta for kids who prefer a milder flavor.

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Can I freeze this pasta?

While you can freeze this pasta, the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze individual portions in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Buffalo Ranch Sausage & Chicken Pasta is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas to make it even better:

• Serve with a side salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
• Garlic bread or breadsticks are a perfect accompaniment for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added flavor and visual appeal.
• For a more substantial meal, add a side of roasted vegetables, such as broccoli or asparagus.

When plating, try swirling the pasta into a nest on the plate and topping it with extra sauce and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. A sprig of fresh parsley adds a pop of color.

For families, consider serving individual portions in bowls or plates to avoid messy servings. This makes it easier for kids to manage and helps prevent food waste.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as my family does. It’s a warm, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

I truly believe this Creamy Buffalo Ranch Sausage & Chicken Pasta will become a new family favorite! It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor – everything a busy Texas mom needs. Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below. And if you’re looking for more easy and delicious family recipes, be sure to check out FamiliesRecipes.com and sign up for my newsletter. Happy cooking, y’all!

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