Spicy, savory, and deliciously straightforward, this Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe brings together tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and flavorful turkey sausage to create an impressive meal. Perfect for family dinners or special gatherings, this dish combines the bold flavors of Creole spices with comforting pasta. You can whip it up in no time to deliver a restaurant-quality experience right at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in under an hour.
- Bursting with Flavor: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients makes each bite a delightful explosion of taste.
- Versatile Meal: This recipe is adaptable; you can swap in your favorite proteins or vegetables based on what you have on hand.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress guests and family alike.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup is needed since most of the cooking happens in one pan, making it convenient for busy weeknights.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your kitchen tools to make everything smoother.
Essential Kitchen Tools
- Heavy-bottomed pan
- Cooking spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Why These Tools Matter
- Heavy-bottomed pan: Ensures even cooking, preventing food from burning while sautéing.
- Cooking spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
- Knife & Cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables and proteins efficiently.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Guarantees accurate ingredient portions for consistent results.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– ½ pound (250g) fettuccine
– 1 pound (450g) chicken thighs, (boneless and skinless (or breast))
– ½ pound (250g) medium shrimp, (peeled and deveined)
– ½ pound (250g) turkey sausages, (sliced 1-inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive or canola oil
– 1 medium onion, (sliced)
– 2 teaspoons (10g) minced garlic
– 2-3 medium tomatoes, (diced)
– 1 tablespoon (8g) cornstarch
– ½ teaspoon (1g) thyme
– 1 teaspoon (3g) smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon (12g) Creole seasoning
– 1 teaspoon (5ml) Worcestershire sauce
– 1 medium red bell pepper, (sliced; or you can use green bell pepper)
– 1½-2 cups (350-470ml) chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons (12g) fresh parsley, (chopped)
How to Make Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the fettuccine according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Shrimp
Lightly season the chicken and shrimp with Creole spice. Heat olive oil over medium heat in a heavy-bottomed pan.
* Sauté shrimp for about 3–5 minutes until they turn pink. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook Chicken and Sausage
In the same pan, add chicken thighs and turkey sausage slices.
* Sauté until browned on both sides. Remove from the pan and set aside alongside the shrimp.
Step 4: Prepare Vegetables and Spices
Add sliced onions, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and cornstarch into the pan. Stir for about a minute to combine.
* Then add thyme, smoked paprika, Creole seasoning, sliced bell peppers, chicken broth, cooked turkey sausage, cooked chicken thighs, and Worcestershire sauce.
Step 5: Simmer the Mixture
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling,
* Lower the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 7–10 minutes until thickened slightly.
Step 6: Combine with Pasta
While your jambalaya simmers,
* Toss cooked shrimp back into the stew. Adjust seasoning with salt as needed. Serve hot over cooked fettuccine pasta.
Enjoy your flavorful Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe!
How to Serve Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe
Serving Cajun Jambalaya Pasta is as delightful as preparing it. This dish brings a burst of flavors and colors that can elevate any dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
Presentation Ideas
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions on top for a fresh touch.
- Serve in Shallow Bowls: Using shallow bowls can help showcase the vibrant colors of the dish.
- Add a Lemon Wedge: A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors and add a zesty finish.
Pairing Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the rich flavors perfectly.
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the meal and adds freshness.
- Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tanginess of coleslaw provide a nice contrast to the pasta.
How to Perfect Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe
Perfecting this Cajun Jambalaya Pasta requires attention to detail and a few tips. Follow these suggestions for the best results.
- Bold seasonings: Don’t be shy with the Creole seasoning; it’s key to achieving that authentic flavor.
- Fresh ingredients: Using fresh vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes enhances taste and texture.
- Don’t overcook shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink; overcooking makes them tough.
- Adjust thickness: If your dish seems too thick, add more chicken broth gradually until you reach the desired consistency.
Best Side Dishes for Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Cajun Jambalaya Pasta can create a more satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Cornbread: Sweet, fluffy cornbread complements the savory spices in the pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition while being easy to prepare.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a delicious contrast.
- Fried Green Tomatoes: This Southern classic offers a crispy texture that pairs well with pasta.
- Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf can help soak up any extra sauce from the jambalaya.
- Baked Potatoes: Simple baked potatoes can be dressed with butter or sour cream for added richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When cooking Cajun Jambalaya Pasta, even small mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:
- Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season your ingredients can lead to a bland dish. Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so adding it too early can make it tough. Sauté shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, then set aside until the end.
- Using low-quality pasta: The pasta’s texture can greatly influence your dish. Opt for high-quality fettuccine or your preferred pasta for the best results.
- Not letting it simmer long enough: Rushing through the simmering step will not allow the flavors to meld. Letting your jambalaya simmer helps develop a rich flavor profile.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Fresh ingredients enhance flavor significantly. Use fresh vegetables and good-quality chicken for a more vibrant dish.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe
- You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for best results.
Reheating Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot throughout, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary, until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe?
Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe combines traditional jambalaya flavors with pasta, creating a unique and delicious meal that features chicken, shrimp, turkey sausage, and vibrant vegetables.
Can I customize my Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins like beef or lamb instead of chicken or turkey sausage.
How spicy is Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe?
The spice level depends on the amount of Creole seasoning you use. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preference.
How should I store leftovers of Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe offers an exciting mix of flavors that is sure to impress family and friends. It’s not only quick to prepare but also versatile; feel free to modify it by adding different proteins or veggies based on what you have on hand. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Dive into the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine with this easy Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe. Combining tender chicken, juicy shrimp, and savory turkey sausage with perfectly cooked fettuccine, this dish promises a delightful experience in every bite. With just 15 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking time, you can create a hearty meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The bold Creole spices and fresh vegetables elevate this dish to restaurant-quality without the fuss. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. Enjoy a burst of flavor that will impress your loved ones!
Ingredients
- ½ pound fettuccine
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs
- ½ pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ pound turkey sausage, sliced
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Minced garlic
- Tomatoes
- Cornstarch
- Thyme
- Smoked paprika
- Creole seasoning
- Chicken broth
- Red bell pepper
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Season chicken and shrimp with Creole spice. Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pan over medium heat. Sauté shrimp for 3–5 minutes until pink; remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add chicken thighs and turkey sausage; cook until browned on both sides. Remove from pan.
- Add onion, tomatoes, garlic, and cornstarch to the pan; stir for one minute. Then add thyme, smoked paprika, Creole seasoning, bell peppers, chicken broth, cooked turkey sausage, and chicken thighs.
- Bring to boil then lower heat to simmer for 7–10 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return shrimp to the pan; adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Serve over cooked fettuccine.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
