Lorenzo Devereaux
Rich, velvety, and packed with a hint of spice, this Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta is comfort food with a bold twist. The luscious sauce clings to every curve of the pasta, creating the perfect bite every time. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or impressing friends, this dish delivers both flavor and elegance without being overly complicated.
What makes this recipe stand out is its balance of creamy cheese, tender pasta, and juicy chicken. The pepper jack cheese adds a subtle heat, while the sun-dried tomatoes give a sweet-tangy depth. Topped with freshly grated parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley, it’s a dish that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Italian-inspired bistro.
What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta?
Short, ridged pasta types like rigatoni, shells, or penne are ideal because they hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. Shell pasta, in particular, creates little pockets that trap the cheese sauce, ensuring each bite bursts with flavor. If you prefer a long pasta, fettuccine can work, but you might not get the same sauce-coated goodness in every bite.
Ingredients for the Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta
Pasta (shells or rigatoni): The base of this dish, perfect for holding the rich sauce.
Chicken breast or thighs: Provides hearty protein and soaks up the creamy sauce.
Pepper Jack cheese: The star ingredient, giving the pasta its creamy texture and spicy kick.
Heavy cream: Creates a smooth, indulgent sauce that binds everything together.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that balances the spice.
Sun-dried tomatoes: Offer a sweet, tangy contrast to the creamy sauce.
Garlic and onions: Build the flavor base with a rich, aromatic profile.
Olive oil and butter: Used for cooking the chicken and sautéing aromatics, adding depth and richness.
Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal finish.
How To Make the Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Season chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and a dash of paprika. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet, then sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Boil your chosen pasta (shells or rigatoni work best) in salted water until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining—it’s great for adjusting the sauce later.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed, then sauté minced garlic and finely chopped onions until fragrant and translucent. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add shredded pepper jack cheese, stirring continuously until smooth and melted. Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and return it to the skillet. Toss in the cooked pasta, stirring until everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with grated parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while it’s hot and creamy.
Serving and Storing the Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta
This pasta is best served fresh, straight from the skillet when the sauce is at its creamiest. However, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the silky sauce.
Freezing isn’t recommended as the creamy sauce can separate when thawed.
What to Serve With Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta?
Garlic Bread with Parmesan Crust
Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
Roasted Parmesan Green Beans
A lighter side that adds crunch and balances the richness of the pasta.
Caesar Salad with Homemade Dressing
Crisp romaine with a tangy Caesar dressing pairs beautifully with creamy pasta dishes.
Lemon Butter Asparagus
The citrusy brightness of asparagus cuts through the creamy richness.
Crispy Buttery Chicken Fried Chicken
If you want a Southern twist, add this for extra comfort food vibes.
Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta
A slightly sweet, tangy side that complements the spicy kick of pepper jack.
Classic Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a refreshing, Italian-inspired pairing.
Want More Creamy Pasta Ideas?
If you love this Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:
- Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe for a rich, romantic dinner.
- Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta for a classic, cheesy indulgence.
- Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a hearty, meaty twist.
- Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you prefer a low-carb creamy chicken dish.
- Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta for a smoky, garlicky delight.
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra spice or keep it mild? Did you swap the chicken for shrimp?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.
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Creamy Pepper Jack Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pasta pot
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 250 g pasta (shells or rigatoni)
- 2 chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- to taste salt and black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet and sear until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic and onion until fragrant, then add sun-dried tomatoes.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer. Stir in pepper jack cheese until melted and smooth. Add pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Slice chicken, return to skillet, and toss with pasta until coated in sauce.
- Sprinkle parmesan and parsley on top. Serve hot.