If you're looking for a delicious dish that brings a little spice to your dinner table, you've come to the right place! I remember one evening when my son, Jake, declared that my creamy Cajun pasta was the best thing he'd ever tasted. This Creamy Cajun Pasta is perfect for an easy pasta dinner that the whole family will love.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love It
- It’s quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Packed with flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.
- You can customize it with your favorite proteins or veggies.
- It’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze!
Pure Comfort
There’s something about creamy pasta that just feels like a warm hug. The rich sauce, combined with the kick of Cajun spices, creates a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy day, this meal wraps you in a cozy blanket of flavor, making it the perfect choice for family dinners.
What You Need
- 8 8 oz penne pasta – You can substitute with fettuccine or rigatoni.
- 1 1 lb chicken breast, diced – Shrimp or sausage can be used instead.
- 1 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning – Adjust to taste for more or less heat.
- 2 2 tbsp olive oil – Can use butter for a richer flavor.
- 1 1 large yellow onion, diced – Shallots work well too.
- 3 3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic powder can be a substitute.
- 1 1 cup heavy cream – Half-and-half can be used for a lighter option.
- 1 1 cup chicken broth – Vegetable broth is a good alternative.
- 1 1 cup bell peppers, sliced – Any color works, or use zucchini.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Season as you like!
Time to Cook
Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Total: 30 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time.
Steps to Make It
- Start by cooking the penne pasta according to package instructions. Once it’s al dente, drain and set aside, letting the steam escape.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. As it warms, the aroma of the oil will fill the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around.
- Add the diced chicken to the skillet and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Watch as the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, creating a luscious coating for the pasta.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir everything together, letting the flavors meld for another 2-3 minutes. The vibrant colors and rich scents will make your mouth water!
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final stir, and it’s ready to serve!
Make It Perfect
- Always taste your sauce before serving; you can adjust the seasoning as needed.
- For a little crunch, consider adding some cooked bacon or breadcrumbs on top.
- Make sure to cook the chicken thoroughly to avoid any raw spots.
- If you want extra creaminess, add a bit more heavy cream or a sprinkle of cheese before serving.
- Don’t forget to save some pasta water; it can help adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
Mix It Up
- Add spinach or kale for a nutritious boost.
- Try using a different protein like shrimp or sausage for a flavor twist.
- For a smoky flavor, add a few dashes of smoked paprika.
Perfect Partners
- Serve with garlic bread for a complete meal.
- A fresh green salad pairs beautifully with this dish.
- Consider a glass of white wine or iced tea to complement the flavors.
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FAQs
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but the cream may change texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
What can I substitute for chicken?
Shrimp, sausage, or even tofu work well.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream and a dairy-free broth.
How can I make it spicier?
Add more Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce!
Conclusion
This Creamy Cajun Pasta is a delightful dish that makes for an easy pasta dinner the whole family will enjoy. With its rich flavors and quick prep time, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home. So grab your ingredients and get cooking—dinner is just around the corner!
Creamy Cajun Pasta for an Easy Pasta Dinner
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- pot
Ingredients
Main
- 8 8 oz penne pasta You can substitute with fettuccine or rigatoni
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced Shrimp or sausage can be used instead
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning Adjust to taste for more or less heat
- 2 tbsp olive oil Can use butter for a richer flavor
- 1 large yellow onion, diced Shallots work well too
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Garlic powder can be a substitute
- 1 cup heavy cream Half-and-half can be used for a lighter option
- 1 cup chicken broth Vegetable broth is a good alternative
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced Any color works, or use zucchini
- to taste salt and pepper Season as you like
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until warm and aromatic.
- Add the diced chicken to the skillet and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning; cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent and garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine; cook until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Add the sliced bell peppers and cooked pasta to the skillet; stir together and let flavors meld for 2-3 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, stir well, and serve.