Spicy Sausage Penne Pasta with Ro-Tel and Monterey Jack Recipe

Let me share a recipe that’s become one of my go-to comfort foods: Spicy Sausage Penne Pasta with Ro-Tel and Monterey Jack Recipe. It’s got that perfect kick from the Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chilies balanced by the creamy, melty Monterey Jack cheese. Whenever I’m craving something cozy but with a little spice, this pasta hits the spot every time.

This dish is amazing for busy weeknights or casual gatherings because it comes together quickly without skimping on flavor. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. You’ll love how the smoky sausage and the zesty Ro-Tel really make this pasta pop with bold savory vibes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients here all play nicely together to create a rich and spicy sauce that clings to every piece of penne. Shopping tip: look for smoked sausage with a nice spice level that you enjoy because it really sets the tone for this dish.

• Olive oil: Helps brown the sausage and softens onions beautifully without overpowering flavors.
• Smoked sausage: Adds a smoky, spicy depth—choose your favorite brand or homemade for extra flavor.
• Diced onion: Creates a natural sweetness that balances the spice from Ro-Tel.
• Garlic: Just two cloves bring a subtle kick without distracting from the other flavors.
• Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the sauce light and allows you to control the saltiness.
• Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chilies (Mild): This canned classic gives you that signature spicy tomato base, crucial to the recipe’s flavor.
• Heavy cream: Adds luscious creaminess, mellowing out the heat from the chilies.
• Penne pasta: Its ridged tubular shape holds onto the sauce perfectly.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the ingredients’ flavors.
• Monterey Jack cheese, shredded: Melts into the sauce for that gooey, cheesy goodness you’ll crave.
• Scallions: Thinly sliced for fresh, oniony brightness on top at the end.

Variations

I love personalizing this Spicy Sausage Penne Pasta with Ro-Tel and Monterey Jack Recipe depending on my mood or what I have in the fridge. Feel free to experiment—you’ll find a version that’s just right for you.

• Spicier kick: I sometimes swap the mild Ro-Tel for the Hot variety to really turn up the heat when I’m feeling bold.
• Vegetarian option: Replace sausage with a smoky smoked paprika-seasoned mushroom mix; it’s surprisingly satisfying and still packs plenty of umami.
• Cheese swap: If you prefer something sharper, try pepper jack instead of Monterey Jack for an added layer of flavor.
• Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.

How to Make Spicy Sausage Penne Pasta with Ro-Tel and Monterey Jack Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Sausage and Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the smoked sausage, sliced or diced, and cook until it’s nicely browned and crispy around the edges—about 5-7 minutes. This browning adds layers of smoky flavor, so don’t rush it. Next, toss in the diced onions and cook until they turn translucent and just start to soften, around 3-4 minutes, then add the minced garlic last, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it burns quickly!

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom—that’s where much of the flavor is hiding! Next, add the can of Ro-Tel tomatoes and green chilies, stirring everything together. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to marry the flavors and reduce slightly. Then, stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to your taste. Simmer gently until the sauce thickens and looks luscious, about another 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta and Combine

While the sauce simmers, cook your penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. I always reserve a cup of pasta water before draining—that’s a secret weapon for adjusting your sauce consistency. Add the cooked pasta right into the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat. If the sauce feels too thick, splash a bit of that reserved pasta water until it clings to each piece perfectly. Finally, stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese. It should melt into the sauce creating a creamy, cheesy coating.

How to Serve Spicy Sausage Penne Pasta with Ro-Tel and Monterey Jack Recipe

Garnishes

I always sprinkle freshly sliced scallions over the top for that bright oniony crunch, which balances out the richness beautifully. Sometimes I also add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a few fresh basil leaves when I want an herbaceous lift. These little touches take the dish from homey to a bit fancy in a snap.

Side Dishes

When I serve this spicy sausage penne pasta, I like pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. Garlic bread on the side isn’t a bad idea either if you want to soak up every last bit of sauce—it never lasts long!

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this dish in individual cast-iron skillets or layered it in a bright ceramic baking dish for a rustic but elegant look. A sprinkle of fresh herbs and a wedge of lemon on the side adds a colorful pop and freshness that impresses guests without adding much effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover spicy sausage penne pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It keeps well but the cheese does tend to thicken, so give it a good stir and maybe a splash of broth or water before reheating.

Freezing

This recipe freezes nicely, which is great for meal prepping. I portion it out into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to eat. Just be mindful that some cheeses can change texture after freezing, but Monterey Jack holds up pretty well.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat to avoid drying out the pasta. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream while warming to bring back that silky sauce texture. Alternatively, the microwave works fine if you add a little extra liquid and stir every 30 seconds until warmed through.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

To me, this Spicy Sausage Penne Pasta with Ro-Tel and Monterey Jack Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s quick, flavorful, and fills your kitchen with the kind of savory aromas that make you want to call everyone over. I hope you give it a try and find it as satisfying and easy to love as I do — perfect for weeknights, leftovers, or feeding a crowd with minimal fuss. Happy cooking!

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