Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta Recipe
Introduction
Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta is a flavorful dish inspired by the vibrant tastes of New Orleans. Combining tender shrimp with a creamy, spicy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe brings festive indulgence to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- Pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine), 12 ounces
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined, 1 pound
- Cream sauce, 1½ cups (prepared Cajun cream sauce recommended)
- Spices (such as Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder), to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the shrimp with spices until pink and opaque, about 3–4 minutes per side depending on size.
- Step 3: Add the cream sauce to the cooked shrimp and stir to combine, warming the sauce gently.
- Step 4: Toss the cooked pasta with the shrimp and cream sauce until well coated. Serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños to the sauce.
- Substitute shrimp with chicken orouille sausage for a different texture and flavor.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or green onions as a garnish to brighten the dish.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to prevent the cream sauce from separating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture in the sauce.
What type of cream sauce works best?
A Cajun-style cream sauce with garlic, paprika, and a touch of spice complements this dish perfectly, but you can also use Alfredo or a simple heavy cream base seasoned to taste.
PrintPappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta Recipe
Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta is a vibrant, creamy seafood dish featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a rich cream sauce with bold spices, served over perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe captures the essence of Louisiana flavors, bringing a taste of Mardi Gras celebration to your table.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Cream Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Spices
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Shrimp: While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp with paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Make the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine Pasta, Shrimp, and Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta and shrimp into the cream sauce, mixing well to coat everything evenly. Cook together for an additional minute to meld the flavors.
- Serve: Plate the Mardi Gras Pasta while hot, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper slightly.
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it will be less rich.
- You can add diced bell peppers or onions for additional flavor and texture.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad and crusty bread.
Keywords: Mardi Gras Pasta, Shrimp Pasta, Cajun Pasta, Creamy Shrimp Pasta, Pappadeaux Recipe, Louisiana Seafood Pasta
