Name: Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta: 7 Bold Flavors to Enjoy
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 8 ounces Penne Pasta (can be substituted with fusilli or rigatoni); 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (can be replaced with turkey or omitted for seafood dish); 1 pound Shrimp (consider scallops as an alternative); 8 ounces Andouille Sausage (substitute with chorizo or kielbasa for varied flavor profiles); 1 cup Bell Peppers (opt for one color or use spicy peppers for an extra kick); 1 medium Red Onion (yellow onion can be used as a substitute); 2 cloves Garlic (minced) (substitute with garlic powder (1/8 tsp per clove) if necessary); 1 cup Heavy Cream (can be replaced with half-and-half or plant-based alternatives); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast as a dairy-free substitute); 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning (adjust to taste preferences for spice level); 3 tablespoons Olive Oil (butter or a neutral oil works as alternatives); 1 teaspoon Salt (adjust according to personal taste); 1 teaspoon Pepper (adjust according to personal taste); 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley (can be substituted with chives)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta is a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine right to your table. Bursting with creamy goodness and an array of bold ingredients, this pasta is perfect for any gathering or celebration. From the first bite, you’ll experience the delightful combination of chicken, shrimp, and andouille sausage, all enveloped in a rich sauce that embodies the spirit of Mardi Gras. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that is sure to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta

This creamy Cajun delight is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

Rich and creamy sauce that tantalizes your taste buds.
Quick preparation time, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
Perfectly balanced with protein from chicken and shrimp.
Can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
Great for feeding a crowd during Mardi Gras celebrations.
Incorporates Cajun spices for an authentic taste.

With all these benefits, it’s no wonder why Pappadeaux’s Mardi Gras Pasta is a popular choice among pasta lovers and Mardi Gras enthusiasts alike! This dish fits perfectly in the Cajun cuisine category and is gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Ingredients for Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta

Gather these items:

8 ounces Penne Pasta (can be substituted with fusilli or rigatoni)
1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast (can be replaced with turkey or omitted for seafood dish)
1 pound Shrimp (consider scallops as an alternative)
8 ounces Andouille Sausage (substitute with chorizo or kielbasa for varied flavor profiles)
1 cup Bell Peppers (opt for one color or use spicy peppers for an extra kick)
1 medium Red Onion (yellow onion can be used as a substitute)
2 cloves Garlic (minced) (substitute with garlic powder (1/8 tsp per clove) if necessary)
1 cup Heavy Cream (can be replaced with half-and-half or plant-based alternatives)
1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast as a dairy-free substitute)
2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning (adjust to taste preferences for spice level)
3 tablespoons Olive Oil (butter or a neutral oil works as alternatives)
1 teaspoon Salt (adjust according to personal taste)
1 teaspoon Pepper (adjust according to personal taste)
1/4 cup Chopped Parsley (can be substituted with chives)

How to Make Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add penne pasta, and cook until al dente (10-12 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet, season chicken with Cajun seasoning, and cook until golden brown (4-5 minutes per side). Remove and keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp: Sauté the shrimp in the same skillet until pink and opaque (2-3 minutes). Set aside with chicken.
Step 4: Sauté the Sausage and Veggies: Add sausage to the skillet and brown; add bell peppers, red onion, and garlic, cooking until tender (4 minutes).
Step 5: Create the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream, simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in Parmesan until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 6: Combine Everything: Return chicken and shrimp to the skillet, add pasta, and toss to coat. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
Step 7: Add Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle parsley over the pasta and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for the Best Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Adjust Cajun seasoning to your desired spice level.
Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition.
This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Best Ways to Serve Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta

Consider these serving ideas:

Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Top with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs for an extra touch.

How to Store and Reheat Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish can last up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream to restore the sauce’s consistency. This makes for an easy meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta

What’s the secret to perfect Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors. Use fresh ingredients, adjust your Cajun seasoning, and don’t rush the cooking process to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. You can also experiment with different proteins or add more vegetables for variation.

Can I make Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time. However, it’s best to combine them just before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy. Simply store the components separately in the fridge and combine when ready to eat!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure that you don’t overcook the pasta. Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook when combined with the sauce. Also, be cautious with salt; the andouille sausage and Cajun seasoning can be salty, so taste as you go.

Variations of Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta You Can Try

Here are a few creative twists to consider:

For a seafood variation, use only shrimp and add scallops.
Make it vegetarian by omitting meat and adding more vegetables like spinach and mushrooms.
Experiment with different types of pasta, such as gluten-free penne or whole wheat options.
Try adding a splash of lemon juice or zest for a bright, fresh finish.

Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta: 7 Bold Flavors to Enjoy - Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making baked mac and cheese for a comforting side dish.

Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta: 7 Bold Flavors to Enjoy - Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta - additional detail

For more information on Cajun cuisine, you can visit Louisiana Travel for authentic recipes and tips.