mardi gras pasta recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
mardi gras pasta recipe
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The Best mardi gras pasta recipe

I am absolutely obsessed with this Mardi Gras pasta recipe. It’s a game-changer for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just need a quick and delicious meal for your loved ones.

The dish originated from the vibrant city of New Orleans, where the famous Mardi Gras parade takes place. The flavors and colors of this recipe are a perfect representation of that festive atmosphere.

When you take a bite of this creamy, cheesy pasta, you’ll be transported to the jazz-filled streets of NOLA in an instant. I love how versatile this recipe is – it’s easy to make in large quantities for a crowd or whip up a smaller batch for a cozy night in with the family.

My kids adore helping me cook this dish, and they’re always excited to see what colorful toppings we’ll come up with next. The best part?

This recipe is incredibly healthy, packed with protein-rich chicken, fiber-rich vegetables, and whole-wheat pasta. We love it so much that we’ve even started experimenting with different variations – adding some heat with red pepper flakes or going for a lighter version with less cheese.

Whatever your twist, this Mardi Gras pasta is sure to become a staple in your household just like it has in ours.

Mardi Gras Pasta

Mardi Gras Pasta

4.8 from 1477 votes

A festive pasta dish inspired by the flavors of New Orleans, featuring spicy Andouille sausage, bell peppers, and a creamy Cajun sauce. This quick and flavorful meal brings the spirit of Mardi Gras to your dinner table.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 550 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 ounces penne pasta
1 tablespoon salt

For the Sauce

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 green onions, sliced for garnish

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add 1 tablespoon of salt and the penne pasta, then cook according to package directions until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes.
3Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
4While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5Add the sliced Andouille sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on both sides, about 5 to 7 minutes.
6Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
7In the same skillet, add the diced bell peppers and onion.
8Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened and beginning to brown, about 5 minutes.
9Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
10Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the vegetables and stir to coat evenly.
11Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
12Let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
13Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
14Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
15Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
16Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with sliced green onions.
17For an extra touch, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 550 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 12g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

For a milder dish, reduce the Cajun seasoning to 1 tablespoon. You can substitute chicken or shrimp for the Andouille sausage for a different protein option. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Mardi Gras Pasta Works

I always love serving Mardi Gras pasta at family gatherings because it’s so easy to scale up or down depending on the crowd size. My kids adore helping me set up the toppings bar with all sorts of colorful options – cherry tomatoes, sliced olives, chopped fresh parsley – making mealtime feel like a fun adventure.

And don’t even get me started on how well this recipe reheats – it’s still just as creamy and delicious after being refrigerated overnight! Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution or want to impress your friends at your next potluck event, this Mardi Gras pasta recipe is sure to become one of your go-tos.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mardi Gras Pasta

1.

What is Mardi Gras pasta?

Mardi Gras pasta is a traditional Louisiana dish made with pasta, chicken, vegetables, and cheese. It’s a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

2.

What type of pasta is best for this recipe?

We recommend using whole-wheat penne or fusilli pasta for this recipe. The ridges on these shapes help hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.

3.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Sure! While we love using mozzarella and parmesan in our Mardi Gras pasta recipe, you can also try other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a unique flavor profile.

4.

How do I store leftover Mardi Gras pasta?

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat by steaming or microwaving until hot and bubbly.

5.

Can I make Mardi Gras pasta ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time, then assemble the dish just before serving. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or special events where you want to wow your guests.

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