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Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta

Creamy Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta for a Flavorful Feast

Experience the vibrant celebration of Mardi Gras with this Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta, blending shrimp, chicken, and andouille sausage in a rich creamy sauce.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 580

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz penne pasta Substitution: Fusilli or rigatoni can be used.
For the Proteins
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast Substitution: Turkey can replace chicken or omit for a seafood-focused dish.
  • 8 oz shrimp Substitution: Replace with scallops or increase vegetables for a vegetarian version.
  • 8 oz andouille sausage Substitution: Try chorizo or kielbasa for different taste profiles.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 cup bell peppers Substitution: Use one color or spicy peppers for a kick.
  • 1 medium red onion Substitution: Yellow onion can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 cloves garlic Substitution: Use 1/8 tsp of garlic powder per clove if fresh is unavailable.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream Substitution: Half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative can be used for a lighter dish.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Substitution: Use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning Note: Adjust according to spice preference.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil Substitution: Use butter or neutral oil as alternatives.
For Seasoning and Garnish
  • to taste salt Adjust according to taste.
  • to taste pepper Adjust according to taste.
  • 1/4 cup chopped parsley Substitution: Chives can be used in a pinch.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Large skillet
  • cutting board
  • colander

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Cajun Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the penne pasta, stirring occasionally, and cook until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken breast with Cajun seasoning and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove chicken and cover to keep warm.
  3. In the same skillet, add shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until pink and opaque. Transfer to the chicken plate to keep warm.
  4. Add sliced andouille sausage to the skillet and sauté for about 2 minutes. Add bell peppers, red onion, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 4 minutes.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  6. Add the cooked chicken, sautéed shrimp, and drained penne pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat in the sauce, heating through for 1 to 2 minutes.
  7. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and serve warm in bowls. Enjoy your delightful Cajun pasta!

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 580kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Taste the sauce before serving to adjust seasoning, especially with salty ingredients like the sausage. Use a non-stick skillet for perfect sautéing.

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