Pastalaya Recipe Cajun

Get ready for a mouth-watering journey into the heart of Cajun cuisine with this pastalaya recipe Cajun style! Combining the comforting textures of pasta with the rich, smoky flavors of jambalaya, this dish is everything you love about Southern cooking in one pot. It’s easy to make, hearty, and perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners. Whether you’re craving a classic Cajun experience or a creamy pastalaya recipe, this version has something for everyone.

Recipe by SoukaynaCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

450

kcal

This Cajun pastalaya recipe brings the bold, smoky flavors of jambalaya and pairs them with pasta for a unique, hearty dish. Loaded with sausage, chicken, and a blend of Cajun spices, this recipe is a comforting meal that delivers a taste of the South in every bite.

Ingredients

Proteins
1 lb (450g) smoked sausage, sliced
1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs, diced
1/2 lb (225g) shrimp, peeled and deveined (optional)
Vegetables & Aromatics:
1 onion, finely chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chicken broth
Seasonings
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt & black pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
1 cup heavy cream (for a creamy pastalaya recipe variation)
12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Sauté the Proteins:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside. In the same pot, add diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside with the sausage.
Cook Vegetables:
In the same pot, add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes & Broth:
Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning to the pot. Stir well to combine, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes.
Add Pasta and Proteins:
Stir in the pasta, chicken, and sausage. Let the mixture simmer until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened, about 15-20 minutes. If the sauce reduces too much, add more broth as needed.
Optional Creamy Version:
To make a creamy pastalaya recipe, stir in heavy cream during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Add Shrimp (Optional):
If using shrimp, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking, stirring occasionally until they turn pink and opaque.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Cajun Seasoning: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
Pasta Shape: Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape. Short pasta types like penne and rotini work best.
Seafood Variation: You can add or omit shrimp based on preference.

Tips for the perfect Pastalaya Recipe Cajun

For Richer Flavor: Let the sauce simmer longer before adding the pasta to deepen the flavor.
Use Andouille Sausage: Authentic Cajun flavor comes from using smoked Andouille sausage, but other smoked sausages can be used as well.
Creamy Option: Add cream only at the end to avoid curdling.

Recipe Variants

Creamy Chicken & Sausage Pastalaya: Omit shrimp and double the cream for an extra rich, comforting version.
Vegetarian Pastalaya: Replace the meats with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a meat-free version.

FAQ

Can I use different meats in pastalaya?

Yes, you can experiment with different proteins. Smoked sausage, chicken, and shrimp are common, but beef or even vegetarian options can work well.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little broth if needed.

Can I freeze pastalaya?

Yes, pastalaya can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What pasta is best for pastalaya?

Short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle are best because they hold the sauce well and are easy to mix with the other ingredients.

How can I make the dish less spicy?

Reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper. You can also use a mild sausage to tone down the heat.

This pastalaya recipe Cajun style is a delightful combination of bold spices, tender meats, and perfectly cooked pasta. With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it came straight out of a New Orleans kitchen. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a side of garlic bread, and you’re set for a flavor-packed meal!