Description
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with this bold and creamy Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta—a mouthwatering fusion of Cajun heat, rich cheese sauce, and tender penne pasta that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast or shrimp (sliced or peeled/deveined)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional Add-ins:
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Juice of ½ lime
- ½ cup reserved pasta water
Instructions
1. Boil penne in salted water until al dente (1 minute under package time). Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Season chicken or shrimp with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp Cajun seasoning. Sear in a skillet with 1 tbsp oil until cooked through. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining oil and butter. Sauté sliced bell peppers and garlic for 3–4 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in remaining Cajun seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Toast spices for 30 seconds, then pour in heavy cream. Simmer and stir in Parmesan until creamy.
5. Add pasta and cooked chicken/shrimp to the sauce. Stir to coat. Add pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
6. Adjust seasoning, garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime, and serve hot!
Notes
You can swap chicken for shrimp or use both for extra protein.
Adjust the red pepper flakes and cayenne for your ideal spice level.
Great with garlic bread or a crisp side salad.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of cream or water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 650