Jambalaya Pasta Recipe – A Flavorful Cajun-Inspired Dish 

If you are a fan of bold, Southern flavors and creamy pasta, this Jambalaya Pasta is the perfect dish for you! Combining the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning, tender shrimp, juicy sausage, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish brings the best of Louisiana cuisine to your dinner table. It’s a one-pot meal that’s both easy to make and packed with layers of smoky, spicy, and savory goodness.

Ingredients

Protein & Pasta:

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 pound andouille sausage, sliced
• 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 12 ounces penne pasta

Veggies & Seasoning:

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste

Sauce & Extras:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional)
• Chopped parsley & green onions for garnish

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the penne pasta until al dente, according to package instructions.
• Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Proteins

• Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes). Remove and set aside.
• In the same pan, add the sliced sausage and cook until browned (about 3 minutes). Remove and set aside.
• Add the shrimp, cook for 2-3 minutes until pink, then remove from the pan.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

• Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter to the skillet.
• Toss in the onion, bell peppers, and garlic and sauté until soft (about 3-4 minutes).
• Stir in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

• Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
• Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly.
• Add Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
• Add hot sauce if you want an extra kick.

Step 5: Combine Everything

• Return the chicken, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce.
• Add the cooked pasta, tossing everything together until well mixed.
• Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend.

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

• Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley and green onions.
• Serve hot and enjoy.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
• Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) complements the Cajun spices.
• Cornbread: Enjoy with buttery cornbread for an extra Southern touch..

Final Thoughts

This Jambalaya Pasta is the perfect fusion of Cajun flavors and creamy pasta that’s guaranteed to impress! Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish is packed with bold spices, juicy meats, and a rich, creamy sauce that will keep everyone coming back for more. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of Louisiana right in your kitchen.