One Pan Buffalo Ranch Chicken Sausage Pasta

This One Pan Buffalo Ranch Chicken Sausage Pasta is packed with flavor. Spicy buffalo sauce, creamy ranch, juicy chicken, and sausage—all cooked together in one pan. I made it once, and now it’s my go-to for an easy, spicy dinner.

The buffalo sauce adds heat, the ranch cools it down, and the chicken and sausage bring in the perfect savory bite. The pasta soaks up all that creamy, spicy goodness, making every bite a flavor-packed experience. And the best part? It’s all made in one pan!

If you’re into bold, spicy flavors and easy, satisfying meals, this is for you. Perfect for busy nights or when you want something quick but full of flavor. I always make extra because this one disappears fast.

Let’s cook this together! This one-pan buffalo ranch chicken sausage pasta is easy, spicy, and totally delicious. You’ll want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-Packed: This dish blends creamy ranch and tangy buffalo sauce for the perfect spicy-creamy balance.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum comfort. All the ingredients cook together, letting flavors meld naturally.
• Flexible & Family-Friendly: Easily adjust spice levels and add your favorite veggies or cheese.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Total Time: About 50–55 minutes

Servings:
This recipe makes 4–6 hearty servings, ideal for a hungry family or meal prep.

Difficulty:
Beginner-friendly. No fancy techniques—just basic chopping and stirring.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this bold and creamy dish. All ingredients are listed in easy-to-find, pantry-friendly form:

Proteins

• 1 lb chicken sausage, sliced into rounds
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into small cubes

Vegetables

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped

Liquids & Sauces

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (do not drain)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup buffalo wing sauce (more or less to taste)
• ¼ cup ranch dressing

Pasta & Seasoning

• 8 oz rotini or penne pasta (uncooked)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Toppings

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)

Variations for Buffalo Ranch Chicken Sausage Pasta

• Swap Proteins: Try ground turkey, rotisserie chicken, or plant-based sausage.
• Adjust Heat: Use mild buffalo sauce or add extra ranch to tone down the spice.
• Make It Cheesy: Stir in mozzarella or pepper jack for more gooey comfort.
• Add Crunch: Top with crushed tortilla chips or crispy bacon bits.
• Boost the Veggies: Throw in spinach, corn, or zucchini during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

How to Make One Pan Buffalo Ranch Chicken Sausage Pasta (Step-by-Step)

1. Sauté the Chicken and Sausage

Heat a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, toss in the diced chicken breast and cook for 3–4 minutes until starting to brown.
Add the sliced chicken sausage and continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes until both are golden and nearly cooked through.

2. Add the Veggies

Stir in the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. The onions should be translucent, and the peppers slightly tender.

3. Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, buffalo sauce, and ranch dressing. Stir to combine.
Once mixed, add the uncooked pasta directly into the skillet. Stir again to make sure everything is evenly coated and the pasta is submerged.

4. Simmer and Cook

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 15–18 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cook until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. If needed, add a splash more broth to keep it saucy.

5. Stir in the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked, remove the lid and sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and coats everything in a creamy, spicy sauce.

How to Serve Buffalo Ranch Chicken Sausage Pasta

This dish is hearty on its own, but here’s how I like to plate it:

• Family-Style: Serve straight from the pan with a sprinkle of green onions for color.
• With a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with ranch or blue cheese dressing balances the spice.
• Bread on the Side: Toasted garlic bread or dinner rolls help soak up the creamy sauce.
• Game Day Platter: Serve in small bowls as a party dish—it’s a crowd-pleaser with a kick.

Storing Buffalo Ranch Chicken Sausage Pasta

Refrigerator:
Let the pasta cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

Freezer:
While this dish freezes okay, the creamy texture may change a bit after thawing. If you freeze it, place portions in airtight containers and use within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use a Lid: Keeping the skillet covered while the pasta simmers helps it cook evenly and absorb all those bold flavors.
• Taste As You Go: Buffalo sauces vary in heat—start with less and add more to suit your preference.
• Cheese Matters: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor, but you can mix it with mozzarella for extra creaminess.
• Cut Evenly: Make sure the chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	480–520
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	22g
Saturated Fat	9g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	5g
Sodium	920mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates based on standard ingredients.

Buffalo Ranch Chicken Sausage Pasta FAQs

Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes. Use mild buffalo sauce or reduce the amount. Add more ranch to cool the flavor.

What’s the best pasta to use?
Rotini and penne both work well, but any short pasta that holds sauce (like shells or fusilli) will do.

Can I skip the chicken sausage?
Yes. You can use only chicken breast or substitute with plant-based sausage.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

This One Pan Buffalo Ranch Chicken Sausage Pasta has become a regular in my kitchen. It’s the kind of recipe that works on busy nights, pleases everyone at the table, and leaves just one pan in the sink. It’s spicy, creamy, savory, and just comforting enough to make you want seconds.