If you’re a fan of bold flavors and comforting pasta dishes, then this Creole Pasta recipe is a must-try for your next cozy dinner at home. This dish brings together the warmth of traditional Creole spices with hearty pasta, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a solo indulgence.
**Creole Pasta**
**Ingredients:**
– 8 oz. of penne pasta
– 1 lb. of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz.) of diced tomatoes
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 2 tbsp. of Cajun seasoning
– 2 tsp. of paprika
– 1/2 tsp. of thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
– Olive oil for cooking
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Pasta:**
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. **Cook the Shrimp and Sausage:**
In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage to the skillet and cook until it starts to brown, about 5 minutes. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the cooked shrimp and sausage from the skillet and set them aside.
3. **Saute the Veggies:**
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add the diced bell pepper and chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until they soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. **Bring it Together:**
Return the cooked shrimp and sausage to the skillet with the veggies. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. **Simmer and Combine:**
Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
6. **Combine with Pasta:**
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the Creole sauce. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is well coated with the flavorful sauce.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:**
Divide the Creole Pasta into individual serving bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious mix of spices and textures in this hearty dish.
This Creole Pasta recipe is a wonderful option for a cozy night in or a special dinner with friends and family. The blend of Creole spices with the shrimp, sausage, and pasta creates a dish that is both comforting and full of flavor. Give this recipe a try and bring a taste of the Creole kitchen into your own home!
