Skillet Creamy Buffalo Chicken & Sausage Pasta

If your idea of comfort food involves a little kick, a whole lot of cheese, and just one pan to clean, this skillet creamy buffalo chicken & sausage pasta is about to become a new favorite. It’s spicy, creamy, hearty, and ready in under 30 minutes. This article takes you through the story behind the dish, how to cook it step-by-step, and tips to make it your own. Whether you’re a weeknight warrior or someone who just loves bold flavors, this skillet delivers flavor without fuss.

How spicy pasta became my go-to comfort meal

Back when I first moved to Tuscany, I expected to spend my days mastering regional sauces and slow-cooked ragù. What I didn’t expect was how often I’d crave the fiery dishes of home. One rainy afternoon, after a long hike with Leo and a growling stomach, I had some Italian sausage, leftover chicken breast, and a bottle of buffalo wing sauce staring at me from the fridge. I reached for the skillet, added a splash of Alfredo, and this dish was born.

Something magical happens when you blend buffalo heat with creamy Alfredo—the sauce clings to the pasta like velvet, coating every bite of tender chicken and browned sausage. The flavor is bold, but the richness mellows out the spice just enough. Toss in some peppers, onion, and gooey mozzarella? Now you’ve got something worthy of a dinner party—or at least a cozy night in.

It reminds me of the first time I cooked for visiting friends here in Italy. I served this exact dish, and between the wine and second helpings, someone laughed and said, “This tastes like home… and adventure.” That stuck with me.

If you’re already a fan of creamy skillet pasta recipes, this skillet creamy buffalo chicken & sausage pasta brings a spicy twist that’ll light up your weeknight menu. And yes, it’s just as easy—no oven, no fancy tools, just a big pan and some bold flavors.

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Preparation Steps

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What you’ll need to make it delicious

When it comes to a great one-pan pasta, the key is balance—savory sausage, juicy chicken, just enough spice, and a creamy finish. This skillet creamy buffalo chicken & sausage pasta is loaded with flavor but uses simple ingredients. You probably have most of them already in your kitchen.

Here’s the full list of what you’ll need:

• 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (like Rotel), undrained
• 1 (15 oz) jar Alfredo sauce
• 1/2 cup buffalo wing sauce
• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or shells all work well)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped green onions or parsley for garnish

Want to change it up? Swap in turkey sausage, use rotisserie chicken, or go lighter with low-fat Alfredo. The beauty of this dish is that it’s forgiving and flexible.

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How to make skillet creamy buffalo chicken & sausage pasta (step by step)

1. Brown the sausage
   Start with a large skillet over medium-high heat. Crumble the sausage and cook until browned. Remove it and set aside.
2. Cook the chicken
   In the same skillet, add the chicken pieces. Sauté until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside with the sausage.
3. Sauté the vegetables
   Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until softened. Toss in the garlic and sauté for another 60 seconds.
4. Add the sauces
   Pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes and green chilies (don’t drain it), the Alfredo sauce, and the buffalo wing sauce. Stir well and bring the mixture to a low simmer.
5. Add the pasta
   Stir in the dry pasta. If the liquid doesn’t cover it, add a splash of water or chicken broth. You want the pasta just submerged.
6. Simmer covered
   Cover the skillet and cook for about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking. It’s done when the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
7. Bring everything back
   Return the cooked sausage and chicken to the pan. Stir to combine and heat everything through.
8. Finish with cheese
   Sprinkle mozzarella over the top and cover for a few minutes until it melts into gooey perfection.
9. Taste and season
   Add salt and pepper to your liking. Garnish with green onions or parsley for a fresh finish.

With the prep and cook time combined, this dish takes about 35 minutes—and everything happens in one skillet. The result? A creamy, spicy, comforting pasta packed with texture and flavor. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again before the week is over.

Customization, Pairings & Serving Tips

Make it your way: easy variations for every taste

One of the best things about skillet creamy buffalo chicken & sausage pasta is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re dialing down the heat or making it heartier, a few simple tweaks let you customize the dish to fit your family’s preferences.

Want it less spicy? Cut the buffalo sauce to 1/4 cup and add a splash of milk or cream to balance it out. If you’re a heat lover, add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce. Like it smokier? Use smoked sausage or a dash of smoked paprika.

Need to go lighter? Use light Alfredo or Greek yogurt-based sauces. You can also swap the sausage for ground turkey or chicken sausage. Veggie lover in the house? Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or even broccoli in the last five minutes of simmering.

For a fun twist, some folks like to crumble blue cheese over the top instead of mozzarella—especially if you want that classic buffalo wing flavor. It melts just enough to give you bold contrast without overwhelming the dish.

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What to serve with creamy buffalo pasta

This dish is rich and flavorful on its own, but a few simple sides can really round out your meal. A crisp Caesar salad or a plate of roasted green beans adds freshness that balances the creamy spice. Crusty garlic bread or soft dinner rolls help soak up the extra sauce.

For drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs well, cutting through the richness with acidity. A light lager or pale ale works too, especially if you’re serving this dish for game night or casual get-togethers.

As for leftovers—yes, they reheat beautifully. Store in an airtight container and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. A splash of milk can help loosen the sauce back up if needed. It also freezes well for up to two months, though the pasta may soften slightly upon reheating.

Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a hungry crowd, this dish holds its own every time. It’s comfort food with personality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use precooked chicken or sausage for this pasta recipe?

Yes, absolutely. If you’re short on time, precooked chicken or fully cooked smoked sausage work well. Just slice and add them after the pasta has simmered, giving enough time for the flavors to meld and the meat to warm through.

What’s the best pasta type for creamy buffalo chicken & sausage pasta?

Short, sturdy pastas like penne, rotini, or shells are ideal. They hold the sauce beautifully and cook evenly in the skillet. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti, which don’t absorb the creamy buffalo mixture as well.

How spicy is buffalo sauce in pasta dishes?

Buffalo sauce adds a medium heat with tangy vinegar notes. In this recipe, the Alfredo sauce balances it out for a creamy, mild finish. Want it spicier? Use extra buffalo sauce or a dash of cayenne. Want it milder? Cut the buffalo down to 1/4 cup or add a splash of cream.

Can I make this dish ahead of time or freeze it?

Yes. This pasta stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and freezes for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then store in airtight containers. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce and stir until creamy again.

Conclusion

If you’re craving comfort with a kick, this skillet creamy buffalo chicken & sausage pasta delivers the kind of bold, creamy flavor that satisfies every time. With one pan, easy steps, and ingredients you probably already have, it’s a weeknight hero and a weekend indulgence all in one. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just cooking for yourself, this dish brings together heat, richness, and heartiness in the most delicious way. Try it once—and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your rotation.