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Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta

Creamy Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta for Ultimate Comfort

This Creamy Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the lively spirit of Louisiana cuisine to your dinner table.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun, Louisiana
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Penne Pasta Substitution: Fusilli or rigatoni can be used.
For the Proteins
  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Easily replaceable with turkey or omitted for a seafood-centric dish.
  • 1 pound Shrimp Substitution: Consider scallops or omit for a vegetarian dish.
  • 8 ounces Andouille Sausage Substitution: Chorizo or kielbasa can be used.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Use mixed colors or just one for simplicity.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Substitution: Yellow onion works as a milder alternative.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Garlic powder can be used (1/8 tsp per clove).
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Substitution: Half-and-half or non-dairy alternatives can be used.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Substitution: Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
For Seasoning and Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Adjust according to spice preference.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Substitution: Butter or a neutral oil are also effective.
  • to taste Salt and Pepper Adjust to taste.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley (for garnish) Substitution: Chives can be used.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside, allowing the steam to escape.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Season the boneless skinless chicken breast with Cajun seasoning, then add it to the skillet. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. Using the same skillet, add the shrimp directly to the medium heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside alongside the chicken.
  4. In the same skillet, add a splash more olive oil if needed, then toss in the andouille sausage. Sauté for about 2 minutes until slightly browned. Next, add the bell peppers, red onion, and garlic, cooking for an additional 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender and aromatic.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently. Gradually add in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until it melts and forms a creamy sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Return the cooked chicken and shrimp into the skillet, mixing them with the creamy sauce. Add the drained penne pasta and toss everything together for 1-2 minutes until well combined and heated through.
  7. Before serving, sprinkle the finished dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Dish out the Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta onto plates and enjoy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To prevent drying out, add a splash of cream before sealing.

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