Jambalaya Pasta Recipe

Okay, friends, let me tell you about this Jambalaya Pasta Recipe. This isn’t just any pasta dish; it’s a flavor explosion! Think creamy, cheesy, a little bit spicy, and packed with all the good stuff – chicken, sausage, and shrimp. It reminds me of a classic jambalaya but with a comforting pasta twist. It’s honestly quicker to throw together than ordering takeout, and the smiles around the table are *way* more rewarding. This one’s been a family favorite for years, and I’m so excited to finally share it with you!

What is Jambalaya Pasta?

Jambalaya pasta is basically the beautiful love child of classic Louisiana jammalaya and yours. What is your favorite creamy pasta dish? Think of it as jambalaya, but instead of rice, we’re using pasta – usually a hearty shape like ham. What are some good ways to grab a delicious sauce? What is essentially a one-pot wonder where you get your protein, veggies, and carbs all in one go? Is it a good time to cook cheesy sauce with Cajun spice? The name pretty much tells the story. All the delicious flavors of jambalaya, reimagined as a pasta dish.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? What I love most about this Jambalaya Pasta Recipe is that it hits all the right notes. The flavor is just incredible – you’ve got the smoky sausage, tender chicken, and sweet shrimp mingling with the Creole spices and creamy sauce. It’s a party in your mouth! Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to make. Seriously, even on those nights when you’re exhausted, you can whip this up in under an hour. It’s also incredibly cost-effective. You can use ingredients you probably already have in your fridge and pantry, and you can easily adjust the amount of protein to fit your budget.

And the versatility! This Jambalaya Pasta Recipe is easily adaptable. You can swap out the proteins – maybe add some andouille sausage for an extra kick, or use crawfish for a truly authentic Louisiana experience. Veggies? Go wild! Bell peppers, onions, celery – they all work beautifully. I also love that this isn’t some fussy, complicated recipe. It’s forgiving, fun, and always satisfying. If you like my Shrimp Creole recipe, you’ll *love* this because it’s like a creamy, comforting hug in a bowl. My family literally cheers when they see this on the menu. Trust me, you’re going to love it too!

How do I make Jambalaya Pasta?

Quick Overview

Making this Jambalaya Pasta Recipe is surprisingly simple. First, you’ll sauté your veggies and proteins. Then, you’ll create the creamy, flavorful sauce with tomatoes, broth, cream, and spices. Finally, you’ll toss in your cooked pasta and let everything simmer together until it’s a bubbling, cheesy masterpiece. The best part? It’s all done in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. It really is easier than it sounds, so don’t be intimidated!

Ingredients

For the Jambalaya:
* 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing. You can use vegetable oil too.
* 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces – I like to use organic chicken for the best flavor.
* 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced – Andouille sausage is amazing here, if you can find it!
* 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – I prefer medium-sized shrimp.
* 1 onion, chopped – Yellow or white onion works perfectly.
* 1 green bell pepper, chopped – Adds a nice sweetness.
* 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is always best.
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained – Don’t drain them, you want that juice!
* 1 (10 ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes and Green Chilies, undrained – This adds a nice kick!
* 1 cup chicken broth – Low-sodium is always a good option.
* 1 cup heavy cream – This is what makes the sauce so creamy and decadent.
* 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning – Adjust to your taste preference.
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a smoky depth of flavor.
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – A classic Italian herb that complements the other spices.
* Salt and pepper to taste – Season generously!

For the Pasta:
* 1 pound penne pasta – You can use rotini, rigatoni, or any other pasta shape you like.
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – For topping. Freshly grated is always better!

What are the steps to

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. What do you want to eat if you have a little bite to it? I usually add a drizzle of olive oil to prevent it from sticking. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Sausage

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside. Add the sausage and chicken and cook until the chicken is cooked through. What should I do with the chicken and sausage?

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the onion and bell pepper to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped onion and cook for another minute. Don’t let the garlic burn!

Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Spices

Stir in the diced tomatoes, Rotel, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. I always taste the sauce at this point and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Add Shrimp and Cook

Add the shrimp to the pot and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. If you overcook shrimp, it will become rubbery. Be careful not to over cook it.

Step 6: Add Chicken, Sausage, and Pasta

Return the chicken and sausage to the pot. Add the cooked pasta and toss to combine. Make sure all the pasta is coated in the sauce.

Step 7: Stir in Heavy Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened. This is what makes the dish super creamy and decadent. If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water).

Step 8: Serve

Serve immediately with grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, if desired. What are some of the best Jambalaya Pasta Recipes?

What is the best way to serve it?

What is a Jambalaya Pasta recipe? What are some good ideas?

For a casual dinner:What is a good salad dressing? What are some good crusty breads to soak up that delicious sauce? My family loves garlic bread with this.

For a More Elegant Meal:What are some good roasted vegetables or steamed asparagus? What are some good pairings for a white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio?

For a potluck or party:What are some good cornbread muffins to serve with coleslaw or Potato Salad?

What is a good recipe for Jambalaya Pasta? What are some good ways to make a big batch of this recipe and enjoy it for lunch? I love packing it in a container with fruit and sprinkling it on top. I think it’s great! What are the endless possibilities?

How do I make a Jambalaya Pasta?

How can I make a Jambalaya Pasta? What are some of the best tips I’ve learned over the years?

Don’t overcook pasta!What is the best way to cook pasta al dente, as it will keep cooking in the sauce. Overcooked pasta will become mushy and unappetizing.

Adjust the spice level: Adjust your level.How much Cajun seasoning and Rotel you use will determine the spiciness of the dish. Start with less and add more to taste. If you’re sensitive to spice, you can use mild Rotel or omit it altogether.

What are some of the best ways toFresh garlic, onions, and bell peppers will give this dish the best flavor. If you don’t have fresh ingredients, you can use dried, but be sure to adjust the amount of dried ingredients.

Don’t skimp on the cream!What makes this sauce so creamy? If you’re trying to cut calories, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as rich. I’ve tested this with almond milk and was surprised at how creamy it still turned out.

How do you taste and adjust?Always taste the sauce before adding the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed. Is it necessary to add more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning to get it just right?

How do you get creative with ingredients? Feel free to experiment with different proteins, vegetables, and spices. This recipe is very adaptable, so you can make it your own. I’ve tried adding mushrooms, zucchini, and even okra to this dish, and they all worked well.

Let the Flavors Meld: After adding the pasta, let everything simmer together for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This will make the dish even more flavorful.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat your Jambalaya Pasta Recipe:

Room Temperature: I really wouldn’t recommend letting it sit out for more than 2 hours.

Refrigerator Storage: Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s cooled down before putting it in the fridge.

Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the Jambalaya Pasta Recipe. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat the leftovers, you can use the microwave or the stovetop. In the microwave, heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. On the stovetop, heat over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to prevent sticking. Cook until heated through. The texture might change slightly after freezing, but it will still taste delicious!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit the chicken, sausage, and shrimp and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini. You can also use vegetarian sausage or plant-based shrimp substitutes.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Penne, rotini, rigatoni, and farfalle are all good choices. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, cook the pasta and add it to the sauce.

How can I make this spicier?

You can add more Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the sauce. You can also use spicy sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Can I use a different type of cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or light cream instead of heavy cream. The sauce won’t be as rich, but it will still be delicious.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – my family’s favorite Jambalaya Pasta Recipe! It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and always a crowd-pleaser. I hope you’ll give it a try and let me know what you think. If you love this recipe, be sure to check out my other pasta dishes and Creole-inspired recipes. They’re all designed to be simple, delicious, and perfect for busy weeknights. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!

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