Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe

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If you are craving a dish that’s cozy, packed with flavor, and effortless to whip up, you have to try this Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe. Creamy white cheddar melts beautifully into the pasta while the ranch seasoning adds that irresistible tangy kick. The smoked sausage brings a savory depth, and the fresh spinach and roasted red peppers brighten every bite, making this one of those comforting meals you’ll want on repeat. This recipe combines simple ingredients into a bowl of pure deliciousness that feels both hearty and fresh.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes the Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe truly shine is its thoughtful yet unpretentious lineup of ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color—from the creamy cheese to the crisp spinach and the smoky sausage.

• 2 cups chicken broth: Adds richness and a savory base that perfectly cooks the pasta while infusing subtle flavor.
• 12 oz rotini pasta: The corkscrew shape holds onto the sauce amazingly, making every bite saucy and satisfying.
• 2 cups milk: Creates a luscious creaminess that balances the tang of ranch and the bite of cheddar.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded white cheddar: Melts into the sauce for that ooey-gooey texture and sharp, cheesy flavor.
• 14 oz smoked sausage, sliced thin: Smoky and savory, it adds an irresistible meaty punch without overpowering the dish.
• 3 minced garlic cloves: Provides aromatic warmth and depth that elevate the whole recipe.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring out all the flavors just right.
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix: The secret ingredient that delivers that iconic tangy, herby zing.
• 1/2 cup chopped roasted red peppers: Adds vibrant color and a slightly sweet, smoky contrast.
• 2 cups baby spinach: Fresh, tender greens to lighten and balance the richness.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for frying the sausage, it adds a subtle fruity note and helps achieve that gorgeous golden crust.
• 2 tablespoons butter: Melted in the pan to carry the garlic flavor and enrich the sauce’s creaminess.

How to Make Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage to Perfection

Start by heating olive oil over medium-high heat and frying the thinly sliced smoked sausage until each piece is beautifully golden and just a bit crispy. This frying step not only intensifies the sausage’s smoky flavor but also creates those delightful caramelized edges that will add texture to your pasta. Once done, set the sausage aside to keep warm while you move on.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base with Garlic and Butter

In the same skillet, melt two tablespoons of butter and toss in your minced garlic. Cook it just until you can smell that fragrant, garlicky aroma—this takes about 30 seconds. This quick sauté creates a flavorful base that will infuse the creamy liquid and elevate the entire dish.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Ranch Sauce

Pour the milk and chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the ranch seasoning packet, letting everything come together in a gentle simmer. This step transforms simple liquids into a creamy, herb-spiced sauce that’s the heart of the Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Right in the Sauce

Drop the rotini pasta directly into the simmering sauce, ensuring it’s mostly covered with liquid. Cover the pan with a lid and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. In about 12 to 15 minutes, the rotini will cook perfectly, soaking up that rich sauce and delivering tender yet slightly chewy pasta.

Step 5: Add the Fresh Veggies

Once the pasta is nearly done, gently fold in the baby spinach and chopped roasted red peppers. Allow the spinach to wilt just a bit—this adds a fresh green pop and a tender bite that balances the richness, while the roasted peppers bring a subtle smoky sweetness and a vibrant splash of color.

Step 6: Bring Everything Together and Season

Return the cooked smoked sausage to the skillet and stir everything until fully combined and heated through. Give the pasta a final seasoning with salt and pepper, taste-testing as you go to get it just right. Now it’s time to dish up your warm bowl of creamy, cheesy goodness!

How to Serve Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

To take your Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe to the next level, sprinkle a little extra shredded cheddar or finely chopped fresh parsley on top before serving. A light dusting of cracked black pepper or a few chili flakes can also add a nice kick if you desire. These simple garnishes not only enhance the look but introduce subtle new layers in flavor.

Side Dishes

This pasta is rich and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables makes for a beautifully balanced meal. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect companions, ideal for mopping up every last bit of that cheesy ranch sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Impress guests by serving the Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe in individual small skillets or rustic bowls. You can also pile it high with a handful of fresh baby spinach leaves as a garnish or drizzle a little extra olive oil over the top for a glossy finish. For a fun twist, scoop some into bell pepper halves or hollowed-out tomatoes for an enticing presentation that doubles as a side dish or snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheddar Ranch Pasta keeps extremely well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen after resting, making for an even tastier second serving. Just be sure to reheat gently to preserve the creamy texture.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this pasta freezes nicely. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, making sure to remove excess air. It can be frozen for up to 2 months, perfect for quick meals when you’re short on time.

Reheating

For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk if needed to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid the microwave for reheating if possible, as this can cause the cheese to separate and the pasta to dry out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While rotini is ideal because of how it holds onto sauce, you can swap in penne, shells, or elbow macaroni without losing that creamy, cheesy goodness.

Is there a vegetarian way to make this recipe?

Yes! Simply omit the smoked sausage and add extra roasted vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to keep the dish hearty and flavorful.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can experiment with plant-based milk and dairy-free cheddar alternatives, but keep in mind the texture and flavor might be slightly different. Using a dairy-free ranch seasoning will also keep it consistent.

How spicy is the Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe?

This recipe is mild and comforting, but if you love spice, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you season it for a little extra kick.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat slowly on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy. Stir often and avoid high heat to prevent separation and dryness.

Final Thoughts

There is something so satisfying about the Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe that makes it a go-to comfort food staple in my kitchen. It’s simple enough for a weekday dinner but special enough to serve to friends and family. Once you try this creamy, flavorful pasta packed with smoky, cheesy, and fresh elements, it just might become one of your favorite dishes too. So grab your skillet and get ready for a meal that warms your heart and delights your taste buds!

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Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe

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3.9 from 36 reviews

• Author: admin
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a creamy, flavorful one-pan dish featuring tender rotini pasta simmered in a cheesy ranch-infused sauce, combined with savory smoked sausage, fresh baby spinach, and roasted red peppers. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that balances indulgence with fresh ingredients.

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Ingredients

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Liquid & Dairy

• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese

Meats

• 14 oz smoked sausage, sliced thin

Vegetables & Others

• 12 oz rotini pasta
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 1/2 cup chopped roasted red peppers
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the thinly sliced smoked sausage until golden brown on both sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Create the Sauce Base: Pour in the milk and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits. Stir in the ranch seasoning mix, then let the mixture simmer gently.
4. 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, for 12 to 15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Add Vegetables: Carefully stir in the baby spinach and chopped roasted red peppers, allowing the spinach to wilt slightly, about 1-2 minutes.
6. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix thoroughly. Stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Notes

• Use smoked sausage for a rich, smoky flavor, but any cooked sausage variety can work.
• To make the dish vegetarian, substitute the sausage with sautéed mushrooms or plant-based sausage alternatives.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the broth slightly or add an additional 1/4 cup of shredded cheese.
• For spicier variation, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American