Description
Pastalaya is a delicious Cajun dish that combines the flavors of traditional jambalaya with pasta instead of rice. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for gatherings, offering a smoky, spicy, and creamy combination of sausage, chicken, and the Holy Trinity of Cajun cooking: onions, bell peppers, and celery.
Ingredients
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1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
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1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cubed
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1 lb shrimp (optional)
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2 tbsp vegetable oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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1 green bell pepper, diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
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4 cups chicken broth
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2 cups heavy cream
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12 oz penne or rotini pasta
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
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1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1/2 tsp thyme
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1/2 tsp oregano
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1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
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1/2 cup green onions, chopped
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1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
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Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
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Add the smoked sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
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In the same pot, add the chicken and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
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Add onions, bell peppers, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Add diced tomatoes with green chilies, chicken broth, heavy cream, and seasonings (paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using). Stir well.
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Bring to a simmer, then add the pasta and return the sausage and chicken to the pot. Stir to combine.
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Cover and cook over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.
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If using shrimp, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking and stir until pink and cooked through.
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Stir in green onions and parsley just before serving.
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Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
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For a smokier flavor, use andouille sausage.
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Adjust Cajun seasoning based on spice preference.
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If the dish is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth to loosen it up.
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Can be made ahead and reheated; the flavors deepen over time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun