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Delicious Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta

Delicious Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta - A Flavor Burst in 30 Minutes

Delicious Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta is a vibrant dish featuring shrimp, sausage, and creamy sauce ready in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Cajun, Louisiana
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Penne Pasta Substitution: Can swap with fusilli or rigatoni.
For the Proteins
  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Substitution: Can replace with turkey or omit for a seafood-focused dish.
  • 1 pound Shrimp Substitution: Consider using scallops for a twist.
  • 8 ounces Andouille Sausage Substitution: Try chorizo or kielbasa for varied flavors.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Bell Peppers (mixed colors) Note: Can use one color or spicy peppers for added kick.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Note: Yellow onion works as a milder substitute.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Substitution: Use garlic powder (1/8 tsp per clove) if needed.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Substitution: Use half-and-half or non-dairy alternatives.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Substitution: Can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Note: Adjust according to spice preference.
For Cooking & Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitution: Butter or neutral oils also work.
  • to taste Salt Adjust to taste.
  • to taste Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley (for garnish) Substitution: Chives can be used if needed.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When done, drain the pasta in a colander, reserving a small cup of the pasta water, and set it aside for later.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. While the oil heats, season the boneless skinless chicken breast with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Once the oil shimmers, add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate.
  3. Using the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed and toss in the shrimp. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, stirring frequently. They should curl slightly as they cook. Once done, transfer the shrimp to the plate with the chicken, allowing them to rest while you prepare the next step.
  4. In the same skillet, add the sliced andouille sausage and cook for about 2 minutes until it begins to brown. Then, add the chopped bell peppers, red onion, and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture for about 4 minutes, stirring continuously until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
  5. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the cream to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken. Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and fully incorporated. Taste the sauce and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
  6. Add the cooked chicken, shrimp, and drained penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated with the creamy sauce. Reduce the heat to low and heat through for about 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce needs to loosen up.
  7. Once thoroughly combined, remove the skillet from the heat. Transfer the Delicious Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta to serving bowls or a large platter. Garnish generously with chopped parsley for a fresh touch, and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 45mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Customizable options allow you to swap proteins or veggies to match your taste preferences.

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