Jambalaya Pasta

Jambalaya Pasta combines classic Cajun flavors with the comfort of hearty pasta. Enjoy the smoky, spicy flavors of traditional jambalaya with tender, perfectly cooked pasta for a vibrant and satisfying meal the whole family will love. This easy dinner recipe brings a taste of Louisiana right to your door!

What is Jambalaya?

This traditional Cajun dish is a flavorful rice dish made with meat, usually smoked sausage of some sort, along with pork, chicken, or seafood (less common), such as crawfish or shrimp. Vegetables usually include onion, celery, and green bell pepper, though other vegetables such as okra, carrots, tomatoes, corn, chilis, and garlic are also used.

After browning and sautéing the meat and vegetables, rice is added with creole seasoning and broth, and the entire dish is cooked together until the rice is done.

For my version of this fusion dish, I’m adding pasta instead of rice, and I only use andouille sausage, though you could certainly add other proteins if you wish!

Helpful Tips

When making Cajun Pasta, keep these tips in mind:

1. Ingredients: Use fresh, quality ingredients for the best flavors. 
2. Seasoning: Cajun spices are crucial. You can use store-bought seasoning or make your own Homemade Cajun Seasoning with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.
3. Pasta: Choose a pasta that holds the sauce well. I’m using rigatoni, but you could also use penne or even fettuccine.
4. Simmer Time: Be patient and let the sauce simmer to deepen the flavors, but don’t overcook the pasta – it should be al dente.
5. Balance: Taste as you go to balance the heat and flavors, adding more seasoning, and salt if necessary.

Following these tips will help you create a delicious, creamy pasta dish you’ll want to gobble up!

Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Pasta Jambalaya

Here’s a list of simple ingredients you need to make this easy pasta dish:

• Red bell pepper, sliced
• Green bell pepper, sliced
• Onion, minced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Andouille sausage
• Rigatoni
• Diced tomatoes (with liquid)
• Heavy cream
• Cajun seasoning – can use less or more
• Paprika
• Cornstarch, for thickening (as needed)

Make sure to review the recipe card below, as it lists the exact amounts you’ll need for each ingredient!

How to make Easy Jambalaya Pasta

1. First, cut the sausages in half lengthwise. Then cut each half into smaller pieces.
2. In a large skillet, saute the bell peppers and onion over medium-high heat for about 3-5 minutes or until just tender. Add in the sausage pieces, garlic and diced tomatoes (with juice from the can).
3. Simmer: let the liquid reduce by half, keeping heat on medium-low and stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add in the cream, cajun seasoning, and paprika to the skillet with veggies & sausage. Keep letting it simmer and reduce it by half. This can take a little time, so be patient. If it doesn’t reduce by half or thicken after about 30 minutes, in a small bowl mix a little cornstarch with cold water together and add it to the pot. This will help thicken the sauce.
5. Meanwhile, boil a large pot of salted water. Cook pasta as directed according to the package directions for “al dente”.
6. After the cream sauce has been reduced, add the cooked pasta and stir to coat completely. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes so that the sauce can fully coat the pasta. Garnish with some fresh parsley if desired, then serve and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cajun Jambalaya Pasta

• Spicy Kick: The Cajun seasoning adds a perfect level of heat and spice!
• Comforting and Hearty: The pasta makes this dish a satisfying and filling meal.
• Versatile: This dish can be a weeknight dinner favorite or a standout dish at gatherings and special occasions.
• Easy to Make: Despite its impressive taste, Cajun Jambalaya Pasta is straightforward to prepare, allowing you to enjoy gourmet flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Customizable: The best thing about this recipe is that you can easily adjust the spice level, swap out proteins, or add your favorite veggies to make it your own.

Once you try Cajun Jambalaya Pasta, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your meal list!

FAQs

How can I make this delicious dish less spicy?

You can adjust the spices you use in the dish or use a milder sausage to control the heat level.

What are some other vegetables that go well in Jambalaya?

Try using fresh vegetables like chopped celery, okra, or mushrooms along with the traditional peppers, onions, and tomatoes.

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

Make sure you only boil the pasta to “al dente” and add it to the sauce just before serving to keep it from getting too soft.

Can I make Jambalaya Pasta ahead of time?

This pasta dish is best served fresh. You could prepare individual parts ahead of time, but I suggest waiting until you’re ready to serve before combining the pasta with the sauce.

How do I store leftover Jambalaya Pasta?

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store in the fridge for 3-5 days. Reheat the next day in a skillet with a splash of cream.

Can I freeze Jambalaya Pasta?

Yes, you can. However, note that the texture may change slightly after freezing and reheating.

Cool the pasta completely to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for 2-3 months.

To reheat, thaw the pasta overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove over medium heat. Add a splash of water, cream, or broth to help loosen the sauce.

More Pasta Recipes

Here are some of my favorite pasta dishes you can try next time:

• Slow Cooker Mexican Lasagna
• Fettucine Bolognese
• Mushroom Ravioli
• Classic Lasagna

This posts was originally published October 8, 2012. It has been updated in format and with pictures on August 15, 2024.