Creamy Rigatoni Alfredo Cajun Pasta
Creamy Rigatoni Alfredo Cajun Pasta
Creamy Rigatoni Alfredo Cajun Pasta is a delicious dish that combines the rich flavors of Alfredo sauce with a kick of Cajun spice. This pasta dish is creamy, savory, and every bite is full of flavor. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner or when you want to impress your family and friends with your cooking skills.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic choice because it brings together the creamy comfort of Alfredo sauce and the bold taste of Cajun cuisine. It’s quick to prepare and uses simple ingredients you may already have at home. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
How to Make Creamy Rigatoni Alfredo Cajun Pasta
Ingredients:
- 340 g rigatoni pasta
- 680 g boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into thick strips
- 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken strips, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Reduce heat to medium and add heavy cream to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and add in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked rigatoni with the chicken and sauce, stirring to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
How to Serve Creamy Rigatoni Alfredo Cajun Pasta
Serve the Creamy Rigatoni Alfredo Cajun Pasta warm on a plate or in a bowl. You can add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a garnish of fresh parsley for a beautiful look. Pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Creamy Rigatoni Alfredo Cajun Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best eaten within 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Tips to Make Creamy Rigatoni Alfredo Cajun Pasta
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Make sure to cook the rigatoni until al dente so it holds up well in the sauce.
- Spice it up: If you like heat, add more Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes to the chicken.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: Fresh Parmesan melts better and gives a smoother sauce than pre-grated cheese.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. Shrimp could also be used in place of chicken for a seafood twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use any pasta you like, such as penne or fettuccine, but cooking time may vary.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: The dish is mildly spicy due to the Cajun seasoning. You can adjust the amount to make it more or less spicy according to your taste.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes! You can replace the chicken with vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cooked beans for a delicious vegetarian option.
Enjoy your cooking and savor the flavors of this Creamy Rigatoni Alfredo Cajun Pasta!
Print
Creamy Rigatoni Alfredo Cajun Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delicious dish that combines rich Alfredo sauce with a kick of Cajun spice, perfect for a comforting dinner.
Ingredients
- 340g rigatoni pasta
- 680g boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into thick strips
- 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken strips, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Reduce heat to medium and add heavy cream to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and add in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked rigatoni with the chicken and sauce, stirring to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Don’t overcook the pasta; ensure it holds up well in the sauce. Add more Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
