What makes Cajun pasta spicy?

Cajun pasta gets its spice from Cajun seasoning, which typically includes a blend of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, oregano, and thyme. You can adjust the amount of seasoning to control the level of spiciness.

Can I use different seafood in Cajun pasta?

Absolutely! While shrimp and crawfish are common choices, you can also use other seafood like crab, scallops, mussels, or even lobster for a delicious variation. Adjust cooking times based on the seafood you choose.

What kind of pasta is best for spicy Cajun pasta?

Penne, fettuccine, and linguine are popular choices for Cajun pasta because their shape allows them to hold the creamy sauce well. However, you can use any pasta you prefer; just ensure it's cooked al dente.

How do I make Cajun pasta less spicy?

To reduce the spiciness, use a milder Cajun seasoning or use less of it. You can also add a touch of cream or milk to the sauce to neutralize some of the heat. Removing the seeds from the peppers will also help.

Spicy Cajun Pasta: 7 Delicious & Easy Recipes [2024 Guide]

Name: Spicy Cajun Pasta: The ULTIMATE Easy Mardi Gras Seafood Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 pound pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)n1 tablespoon olive oiln1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveinedn1 pound crawfish tails, peeledn1/2 pound andouille sausage, slicedn1 green bell pepper, choppedn1 red bell pepper, choppedn1 yellow onion, choppedn4 cloves garlic, mincedn2 tablespoons Cajun seasoningn1 teaspoon paprikan1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)n1/4 teaspoon black peppern1/4 cup all purpose flourn3 cups heavy creamn1/2 cup chicken brothn1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheesen2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnishnSalt and pepper to taste

Description

Indulge in this Spicy Cajun Pasta recipe! Creamy, flavorful, and packed with shrimp, crawfish, and andouille sausage. Perfect for a taste of New Orleans at home.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)n1 tablespoon olive oiln1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveinedn1 pound crawfish tails, peeledn1/2 pound andouille sausage, slicedn1 green bell pepper, choppedn1 red bell pepper, choppedn1 yellow onion, choppedn4 cloves garlic, mincedn2 tablespoons Cajun seasoningn1 teaspoon paprikan1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)n1/4 teaspoon black peppern1/4 cup all purpose flourn3 cups heavy creamn1/2 cup chicken brothn1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheesen2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnishnSalt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.nWhile the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, crawfish, and andouille sausage and cook until the shrimp is pink and the sausage is browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the seafood and sausage from the skillet and set aside.nAdd the bell peppers and onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.nStir in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.nSprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.nGradually whisk in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 5 to 7 minutes.nStir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.nAdd the cooked pasta, shrimp, crawfish, and andouille sausage to the sauce. Toss to coat.nGarnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Pasta
Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

Calories: 650
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 250mg

Keywords: spicy cajun pasta, seafood pasta, Mardi Gras, Cajun food