If you love dishes that pack a punch of flavor and feel like a warm hug from the inside out, then you are going to fall hard for this Pastalaya Recipe Cajun. The very first time I tasted pastalaya, I was hooked by its rich, smoky goodness and the way it combined the heartiness of pasta with the boldness of traditional jambalaya. It is everything you crave in a comforting meal, but with a deliciously Cajun twist.
Pastalaya fits right into so many moments, whether you are looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, a standout dish for your next potluck, or just a one-pot wonder to impress your family. What I love most is that it brings all the spicy, savory flavors of jambalaya but swaps the rice for tender pasta, soaking up every bit of that mouthwatering sauce. Plus, it is endlessly adaptable depending on what you have in your kitchen!
If you have ever dreamed of cooking a true taste of Louisiana but wanted something a little easier and faster than the traditional rice-based version, then this Pastalaya Recipe Cajun is calling your name.
Table of contents
Why This Pastalaya Recipe Cajun Works
There are plenty of versions out there, but I believe this one captures the true heart of Cajun cooking with a few little secrets that make it extra special. First, we start by building deep flavor with a slow sauté of the “holy trinity” of Cajun cuisine: onions, bell peppers, and celery. Then, smoky sausage, juicy chicken, and sometimes even shrimp make it a complete, satisfying meal.
Another thing that makes this Pastalaya Recipe Cajun shine is how everything cooks together in one pot, allowing the pasta to absorb every ounce of flavor. This technique not only saves time but guarantees you will not lose a drop of that delicious sauce.
Customization is another huge plus. You can easily make it spicier, swap the meats to fit your preference, or even use gluten-free pasta if needed. It is an extremely forgiving recipe, which makes it perfect for beginners and seasoned home cooks alike.
Whether you are feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this Pastalaya Recipe Cajun will make you feel like a kitchen rockstar every time.
Recipe Card
Pastalaya Recipe Cajun
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium8
servings20
minutes40
minutes450
kcalThis 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.
- Brown your meats properly: Take the time to get a good sear on your sausage and chicken before moving on to the vegetables. That caramelization at the bottom of the pot is pure flavor gold and forms the base of a rich sauce.
- Use Andouille Sausage: Authentic Cajun flavor comes from using smoked Andouille sausage, but other smoked sausages can be used as well.
- Add the pasta at the right moment: Wait until your broth is simmering before stirring in the pasta. This helps the pasta cook evenly and absorb all the flavorful juices without becoming mushy.
- Creamy Option: Add cream only at the end to avoid curdling.
Delicious Variations for Your Pastalaya Recipe Cajun
Spicy Shrimp Pastalaya
If you are a seafood lover, swap out the chicken for juicy shrimp. Cook the shrimp separately and add them at the very end to prevent overcooking. They’ll soak up the smoky, spicy flavors of the dish while staying tender and sweet. Shrimp brings a lighter, coastal twist that is perfect for summer gatherings.
Smoked Sausage and Turkey Pastalaya
For a slightly healthier version, use smoked turkey sausage instead of traditional andouille. Pair it with chunks of turkey breast for a leaner yet still richly flavored dish. This combo is especially great if you are feeding a crowd that prefers lighter meats but still craves the classic Cajun taste.
Creamy Cajun Pastalaya
Turn your Pastalaya Recipe Cajun into a creamy, decadent dream by stirring in a half-cup of heavy cream or even a few spoonfuls of cream cheese toward the end of cooking. This creates a luscious sauce that coats the pasta beautifully and balances the spice with a touch of richness.
Veggie-Lovers Pastalaya
Skip the meat altogether and double down on colorful vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and extra peppers. You can even toss in roasted corn or okra for a truly Southern vegetarian twist. Use a good vegetable broth and add some smoked paprika to keep that signature smoky flavor.
FAQs
Yes, you can experiment with different proteins. Smoked sausage, chicken, and shrimp are common, but beef or even vegetarian options can work well.
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.
Yes, pastalaya can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
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.
Reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper. You can also use a mild sausage to tone down the heat.
Wrapping It Up: Why You’ll Crave This Pastalaya Recipe Cajun Again and Again
There’s something magical about a dish that’s hearty, spicy, and made in just one pot. This Pastalaya Recipe Cajun captures the lively spirit of Louisiana cooking with every single forkful. It is a vibrant celebration of bold flavors and comfort that comes together surprisingly easily, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy Sunday meal, or a festive gathering with friends.
I love how adaptable it is too. Whether you want to dial up the heat, swap out proteins, or throw in extra veggies, this dish welcomes your personal touch. Plus, the leftovers are simply phenomenal, making it a lifesaver for busy weeks.
If you are looking for other delicious main dishes, we suggest you try the Boursin Pasta Recipe and the Curry Goat Recipe!
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