Description
Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a creamy, hearty dish combining tender rotini pasta cooked in a savory ranch-seasoned broth with smoky sausage, fresh spinach, and roasted red peppers, all coated in melted white cheddar cheese. This comforting one-pan meal comes together in about 35 minutes, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 2 cups milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 14 oz smoked sausage, sliced thin
- 3 minced garlic cloves
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup chopped roasted red peppers
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and fry until golden on both sides. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Pour in the milk and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to lift any browned bits. Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and allow the mixture to simmer gently.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the rotini pasta to the skillet, ensuring it is mostly submerged in the liquid. Cover with a lid and cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has mostly absorbed, about 12 to 15 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Carefully stir in the baby spinach and chopped roasted red peppers. Cook just until the spinach softens, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to incorporate all ingredients. Sprinkle in the shredded white cheddar cheese and stir until melted and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use full-fat milk for creamiest results.
- Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking.
- Substitute smoked sausage with chicken sausage or vegetarian sausage for different variations.
- Add extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
