Mardi Gras Pasta
Mardi Gras is a time for celebration, vibrant colors, and, of course, incredible food! This Mardi Gras Pasta is a delightful dish inspired by the rich culinary traditions of New Orleans. It combines the bold flavors of Cajun spices with succulent shrimp, andouille sausage, and a creamy sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. Perfect for a festive dinner or a cozy night in, this pasta is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why Mardi Gras Pasta is Worth Your Time
This Mardi Gras Pasta is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. It brings together the essence of Mardi Gras with a blend of spices and fresh ingredients that create a dish bursting with flavor. The combination of shrimp, sausage, and creamy sauce makes it hearty and satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal that minimizes cleanup, allowing you to spend more time celebrating and less time in the kitchen.
The Ingredient Lineup
To make this mouthwatering Mardi Gras Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12 ounces fettuccine
- 8 tablespoons butter, divided
- 1 pound medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup diced yellow pepper
- 1/4 cup diced green pepper
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 12 ounces andouille sausage, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup diced tomato
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Equipment Breakdown
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary equipment:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet for sautéing the ingredients
- Colander for draining pasta
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Method: Mardi Gras Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 ounces of fettuccine and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning them with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika. Sauté until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic, sliced green onions, diced yellow and green peppers, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté the mixture for another 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for a couple of minutes until softened. Pour in the heavy cream and add the lemon juice, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and add the drained fettuccine. Toss the pasta in the creamy sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is well combined and heated through, serve the Mardi Gras Pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy this dish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan if desired.
Fit It to Your Goals
Whether you’re looking to make this Mardi Gras Pasta lighter or adapt it to your dietary preferences, consider these options:
- Swap fettuccine for whole grain or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.
- Use turkey or chicken sausage instead of andouille for a leaner protein option.
- For a vegetarian version, replace shrimp and sausage with extra mushrooms and bell peppers.
- Reduce the heavy cream and substitute with a plant-based cream for a dairy-free option.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
This Mardi Gras Pasta is versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients based on your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or proteins. If you love spice, increase the Cajun seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. The creamy sauce beautifully balances the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine, making each bite a celebration of taste!
Store, Freeze & Reheat
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely, but it happens!), here’s how to store and reheat your Mardi Gras Pasta:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container and keep for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Mardi Gras Pasta FAQs
Can I use other types of seafood in this dish?
Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with scallops, crab, or even lobster for a luxurious twist on this Mardi Gras Pasta.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes! You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the shrimp and sausage and adding more vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or artichokes.
What can I serve with Mardi Gras Pasta?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or a glass of white wine. For a complete New Orleans experience, consider serving it alongside a Cajun Shrimp Andouille Style Rice Skillet or Creamy Cajun Shrimp Grits Skillet.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level can be adjusted based on your taste. The Cajun seasoning provides a nice kick, but feel free to use less or add more based on your preference for heat!
Time to Try It
Now that you have the recipe and all the tips for making a fabulous Mardi Gras Pasta, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a dish that captures the spirit of Mardi Gras in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating with friends or indulging in a comforting meal at home, this pasta is sure to impress. Happy cooking!
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Mardi Gras Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine - Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 ounces of fettuccine and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp - In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning them with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika. Sauté until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Step 3: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables - In the same skillet, add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic, sliced green onions, diced yellow and green peppers, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté the mixture for another 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Step 4: Create the Sauce - Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for a couple of minutes until softened. Pour in the heavy cream and add the lemon juice, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Step 5: Combine Everything - Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and add the drained fettuccine. Toss the pasta in the creamy sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 6: Serve and Garnish - Once everything is well combined and heated through, serve the Mardi Gras Pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy this dish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
- Customize with different vegetables or proteins to suit your taste.
- Add more Cajun seasoning for extra spice.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
