One-Pot Creamy Buffalo Cheddar Chicken and Sausage Pasta That’s Irresistible

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We’ve all been there—staring into the fridge at 5:42 p.m., wondering if string cheese and frozen waffles can pass as dinner (spoiler alert: they can’t). That’s why this One-Pot Creamy Buffalo Cheddar Chicken and Sausage Pasta is about to be your new BFF. It’s bold, creamy, comforting, and spicy in all the right ways—and it comes together without dirtying every pot in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Creamy Buffalo Cheddar Chicken and Sausage Pasta

Let’s count the ways, shall we?

It’s made in one pot—yes, ONE. That means fewer dishes and more couch time.
It’s the ultimate comfort food with a spicy kick, thanks to the rich Buffalo sauce.
You’re getting the hearty combo of shredded chicken and Italian sausage. Double protein, double flavor.
That cheddar cheese? Melts into every nook and cranny of the pasta, making every bite gloriously gooey.
It’s picky-eater approved and grown-up satisfying. Hello, weeknight win!

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want something that feels like a hug in a bowl, this dish is your answer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you jump in, here’s what you’ll need to make this Buffalo Chicken Pasta dream come true:

1 lb cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works like a charm!)
1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
12 oz penne or rotini pasta (go with what’s in your pantry)
3 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup buffalo sauce (adjust for your spice level)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped green onions, for that fresh pop on top

How to Make One-Pot Creamy Buffalo Cheddar Chicken and Sausage Pasta

Step 1: Brown That Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage (casings off!) and cook until it’s browned and crumbly—about 5–7 minutes. Break it up as it cooks. Set aside some patience; sausage needs its golden moment.

Step 2: Add the Flavor Base

Stir in your shredded chicken, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Now add the pasta straight into the pot—yes, uncooked! Pour in the chicken broth, buffalo sauce, and heavy cream. Stir it all together and bring it to a light boil.

Step 3: Simmer and Stir

Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer for about 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks. You’re looking for tender pasta and an irresistible creamy sauce.

Step 4: The Cheesy Finale

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the cream cheese and cheddar cheese. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. The smell at this point? Dangerous. Neighbors might start casually “dropping by.”

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped green onions for a bit of freshness and serve it hot. Add a drizzle of buffalo sauce if you’re feeling wild.

Aneta’s Tip: Make It Your Own

You can absolutely play with this Buffalo Chicken Pasta:

No sausage? Just double the chicken.
Prefer it mild? Cut the buffalo sauce to 1/4 cup and add extra cream.
Love blue cheese? Crumble some on top when serving for an extra flavor punch.
Need a veggie? Toss in a handful of spinach or frozen peas toward the end of cooking.

Don’t worry if your sauce looks a little extra thick—add a splash of broth or cream to thin it. This is your dinner, not a cooking show audition.

One-Pot Creamy Buffalo Cheddar Chicken and Sausage Pasta in a skillet with cheesy sauce and sliced sausage on top

Why This Dish Has a Permanent Spot on My Dinner Rotation

The first time I made this, it was one of those “use what’s left in the fridge” nights. I had some leftover rotisserie chicken, a half-used tub of cream cheese, and a buffalo sauce bottle I’d forgotten about behind the jelly. Boom—magic. My husband asked for seconds and took the leftovers to work the next day (which never happens).

Now it’s the meal I pull out when I want to feel like a dinner superhero without turning my kitchen into a disaster zone.

FAQs About One-Pot Creamy Buffalo Cheddar Chicken and Sausage Pasta

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Yes! Half-and-half or even milk will work in a pinch, but the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. It reheats like a dream. Just store in an airtight container and add a splash of broth or cream when warming it up.

What kind of pasta works best?

Penne and rotini hold the sauce beautifully, but honestly? Whatever you’ve got will work just fine.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a cozy, spicy, one-pot wonder that pleases everyone and keeps your sanity intact, this One-Pot Creamy Buffalo Cheddar Chicken and Sausage Pasta is it. It’s the comfort food you didn’t know you needed—and the one you’ll crave again and again.

So next time you’re peering into the fridge at dinnertime, just remember: one pot, lots of flavor, and zero regrets.

Happy cooking,
—Aneta 🍗✨

More Recipes You’ll Love

If this One-Pot Creamy Buffalo Cheddar Chicken and Sausage Pasta lit up your dinner table, you’re in for a treat with some of our other bold and cheesy creations! Whether you’re in the mood for handheld comfort, baked goodness, or another creamy pasta dish, here are a few must-try recipes from Chicken Magic that’ll hit the spot:

Craving something crispy and packed with cheese? These Mozzarella Lava Chicken Tenders are like molten magic in every bite—kids and grown-ups both go wild for them.
For another cheesy pasta option with a Cajun twist, don’t miss this indulgent Cheesy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta. It’s a flavor-packed cousin to your Buffalo favorite.
Want to spice things up in a different direction? These Buffalo Chicken Taquitos are crispy, zesty, and perfect for game day or a snacky dinner night.
And if you’re looking for a creamy casserole with a sweet-and-savory edge, this Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight will absolutely deliver that cozy comfort food fix.

Each of these recipes brings its own twist while keeping prep simple and satisfaction high. Give them a try next time you’re ready to mix things up—your taste buds will thank you!