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Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta

Creamy Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta: A Flavorful Feast

A delicious twist on comfort food featuring smoky andouille sausage, shrimp, and creamy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Penne Pasta Substitution: Fusilli or rigatoni can be used.
For the Protein
  • 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Substitution: Can replace with turkey or omit for a seafood-only dish.
  • 1 lb Shrimp Substitution: Scallops can be used as an alternative.
  • 8 oz Andouille Sausage Substitution: Chorizo or kielbasa can be substituted for different flavors.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Bell Peppers (mixed colors) Note: One color can be used or spicy peppers for extra heat.
  • 1 medium Red Onion Substitution: Yellow onion works if needed.
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Substitution: 1/8 tsp garlic powder per clove can be used.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Substitution: Half-and-half or non-dairy alternatives may be used.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Substitution: Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
  • 2 tsp Cajun Seasoning Adjust to spice preference.
For Cooking
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Substitution: Can use butter or neutral oil.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley Substitution: Chives can work in a pinch.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • colander

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically 10-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breast with Cajun seasoning and cook for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Remove and keep warm.
  3. In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil and add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
  4. Return the skillet to medium heat and add more olive oil if needed. Add the andouille sausage and cook for 2 minutes. Then add bell peppers, red onion, and garlic, stirring until tender, about 4 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly for 2-3 minutes. Gradually add Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Add cooked chicken, shrimp, and drained penne pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly and heat through for 1-2 minutes.
  7. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the pasta and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 8gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Customize spice levels by adjusting Cajun seasoning. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

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