Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta Recipe
When it comes to capturing the vibrant flavors of the South, Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen knows how to deliver. Their Mardi Gras Pasta is a fan favorite, combining the rich, creamy textures of a well-made pasta dish with the bold, spicy notes of Cajun cuisine. This recipe is perfect for bringing a taste of New Orleans to your kitchen, whether you’re celebrating Mardi Gras or simply craving a hearty, flavorful meal.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Be sure to reserve a cup of pasta water in case you need it later to adjust the sauce consistency.
2. Prepare the Protein
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until it’s browned on both sides. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning them with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside with the sausage.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed, then toss in the bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Sauté the vegetables until they are soft and slightly caramelized, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden color.
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, followed by the heavy cream. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken. Add the Parmesan cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Combine Everything
Return the sausage and shrimp to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the creamy sauce over the mixture and stir to combine. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the Mardi Gras Pasta to a serving dish, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, and serve immediately. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, with a side of crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
Tips for Perfecting Your Mardi Gras Pasta
Choosing the Right Sausage
Andouille sausage is the traditional choice for this recipe, offering a smoky, spicy flavor that complements the Cajun seasoning. However, if you can’t find andouille, you can substitute it with another smoked sausage or even chorizo for a different twist.
Making It Spicier
If you love heat, feel free to add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the dish. You can also sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Adjusting the Sauce Consistency
The key to a perfect sauce is achieving the right balance of thickness and creaminess. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water or a bit more chicken broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
Healthier Variations
Lightening Up the Cream Sauce
For a lighter version of this dish, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of butter and Parmesan cheese to cut down on calories without sacrificing too much flavor.
Vegetarian Mardi Gras Pasta
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the shrimp and sausage and load up on more vegetables. Mushrooms, zucchini, and spinach are great additions that add texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Best Sides to Serve
Pair this Mardi Gras Pasta with a fresh green salad or sautéed greens like collard or kale. Garlic bread or cornbread also makes excellent sides, helping to round out the meal.
Beverage Pairings
A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce. If you prefer beer, go for a light lager or a wheat beer to complement the dish’s flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the components of this dish ahead of time, but it’s best to combine and serve everything fresh to maintain the texture and flavor.
What Other Proteins Can I Use?
If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can substitute it with chicken, crawfish, or even scallops. The key is to keep the Cajun seasoning consistent to maintain the dish’s signature flavor.
Can I Freeze the Leftovers?
While the pasta itself can be frozen, the cream sauce may separate when reheated. For best results, store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume them within a few days.
Is This Dish Kid-Friendly?
Yes, this dish can be made kid-friendly by reducing the amount of cayenne pepper and hot sauce. You can also add a bit of extra cheese to appeal to younger palates.
How Can I Reheat Leftovers?
To reheat leftovers, warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help rehydrate the sauce.
Conclusion
Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta is a festive, flavorful dish that brings the essence of Cajun cuisine to your table. With its combination of tender shrimp, spicy sausage, and a rich, creamy sauce, this pasta is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a comforting meal, this recipe is a must-try. So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and get ready to enjoy a taste of New Orleans at home.
Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta Recipe
When it comes to capturing the vibrant flavors of the South, Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen knows how to deliver. Their Mardi Gras Pasta is a fan favorite, combining the rich, creamy textures of a well-made pasta dish with the bold, spicy notes of Cajun cuisine. This recipe is perfect for bringing a taste of New Orleans to your kitchen, whether you're celebrating Mardi Gras or simply craving a hearty, flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces Egg Fettuccine
- 1 pound medium-sized shrimp peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces Andouille sausage sliced
- 1 tbsp of butter
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup diced bell pepper mix of green, yellow, and red
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan Cheese
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tsp of cayenne pepper optional for extra spice
Instructions
Cook the Egg Fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions.
In a large skillet, melt the tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
In the same skillet, add the peeled and deveined shrimp.
Add the minced garlic and diced bell peppers to the skillet.
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine with the garlic and peppers.
Return the cooked Andouille sausage and seasoned shrimp to the skillet.
Add the cooked Egg Fettuccine pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the Mardi Gras sauce.
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta!