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Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta

Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta: A Creamy Cajun Delight

Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta is a creamy Cajun delight that's quick to prepare and customizable, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 plates
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Penne Pasta Can substitute with fusilli or rigatoni
For the Protein
  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Can substitute with turkey or omit for seafood-only version
  • 1 pound Shrimp Can substitute with scallops or more vegetables
  • 6 ounces Andouille Sausage Consider chorizo or kielbasa for a twist
For the Vegetables
  • 2 cups Bell Peppers (mixed colors) Can use one color variety or spicy peppers
  • 1 medium Red Onion Can replace with yellow onion
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced) Can substitute with garlic powder (1/8 tsp per clove)
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Can substitute with half-and-half or non-dairy alternative
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Can substitute with Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Adjust based on spice tolerance
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can use butter or a neutral oil
For the Finishing Touches
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper Adjust to taste
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Parsley (for garnish) Can substitute with chives

Equipment

  • large pot
  • colander
  • large skillet

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook for 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Keep warm.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and keep warm with chicken.
  4. Add olive oil to the skillet and sauté the sausage for 2 minutes until crisp. Add bell peppers, red onion, and garlic, cooking for 4-5 minutes until tender.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted, adjusting seasoning as needed.
  6. Combine the chicken, shrimp, and drained pasta with the sauce, tossing to coat. Heat for 1-2 minutes to meld flavors.
  7. Sprinkle with parsley and serve either plated individually or family-style.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 80mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

For best results, pre-cook components separately and combine just before serving.

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