This Easy Pastalaya is a fantastic mix of pasta and Cajun flavors! With colorful veggies, juicy sausage, and a kick of spice, it’s a fun twist on a classic dish.
You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up a big pot of this delicious meal. I often serve it for family dinners, and it’s a hit every time—everyone loves the bold and zesty taste!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Andouille Sausage: This is essential for that classic Cajun flavor! If you can’t find it, try using chorizo or any spicy smoked sausage as a substitute for a similar profile.
Chicken Thighs: I recommend bone-in thighs for moisture, but boneless works too. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use chickpeas or tofu for protein.
Cajun Seasoning: A must-have for spice! You can make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and cayenne if you’re feeling experimental.
Pasta: Penne or rotini are excellent choices, but you can swap in any pasta shape you have on hand. Just be mindful of cooking times.
How Do I Ensure My Pastalaya Has the Perfect Flavor?
The key to great flavor in pastalaya lies in layering your ingredients properly. Start by browning the sausage well; this builds a base for your dish.
- Cook sausage until browned, which adds depth.
- Sauté vegetables next to release their flavors before adding spices.
- Simmer the tomatoes and chicken broth together to combine flavors before adding your pasta.
Tasting as you go is crucial! You can always add a pinch of extra Cajun seasoning if you want more heat.
Easy Pastalaya Recipe with Spicy Cajun Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 2 cups chicken broth
Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta & Garnish:
- 8 ounces medium pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Pastalaya will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick to whip up for a weeknight dinner, and you’ll have a deliciously hearty meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5 minutes. Once done, remove it from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Chicken:
In the same pot, add the chicken pieces. Cook them until they’re golden brown on all sides and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. After cooking, take them out and place them with the sausage.
3. Add the Veggies:
Now, it’s time to make your veggies shine! Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pot. Sauté these together until they’re softened—this should take about 5 minutes. It will smell wonderful!
4. Flavor It Up:
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to coat the vegetables thoroughly with the spices.
5. Simmer the Sauce:
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen!
6. Combine the Ingredients:
Return the browned sausage and chicken to the pot. Add the pasta, give everything a good stir to combine, and make sure the pasta is fully immersed in the liquid.
7. Cook the Pasta:
Cover the pot and let the Pastalaya cook on medium-low heat for about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender and has soaked up most of the liquid. If needed, adjust the seasoning by tasting and adding more Cajun spice, salt, or pepper as you prefer.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
When ready, ladle the spicy Cajun Pastalaya into bowls. Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped parsley if you’d like. Dig in and enjoy your flavorful creation!
FAQ for Easy Pastalaya Recipe with Spicy Cajun Flavor
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While andouille sausage is traditional for that authentic Cajun flavor, you can substitute it with smoked sausage or chorizo for a different taste. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly based on the sausage type.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, you can omit the sausage and chicken and instead add diced tofu or cooked chickpeas for protein. Also, ensure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the base.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the cayenne pepper or completely omit it. Conversely, for more heat, you can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add sliced jalapeños during cooking!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Pastalaya in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.
