If you’re looking to spice up your meal routine, Pastalaya is your next kitchen adventure. This vibrant blend of flavors and textures combines the heartiness of a pasta dish with the beloved spiciness of jambalaya, creating a one-pot wonder that’s as colorful as it is delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot Wonder: Pastalaya combines the convenience of a one-pot meal with the rich, spicy flavors of jambalaya.
- Flavor Fusion: It merges the best of pasta and Creole cuisine into a hearty, satisfying dish.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Its vibrant flavors and textures make it a hit at family gatherings and potlucks.
- Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients and few steps make it as easy on your wallet as it is on your time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Pastalaya lies in its use of straightforward ingredients that pack a punch. Each component is chosen for its ability to layer on flavor or add a delightful textural element to the dish.
- Vegetable oil: Helps brown the sausage and sauté the garlic, adding a subtle flavor foundation.
- Smoked sausage: Preferably Andouille, it brings a smoky, spicy base that anchors the dish.
- Garlic: A staple for depth of flavor, enhancing the dish’s aromatic profile.
- Frozen seasoning mix: This trinity of onion, bell pepper, and celery saves time while offering the classic base of Louisiana cooking.
- Diced tomatoes: Add moisture and acidity, balancing the rich spices.
- Creole seasoning, oregano, smoked paprika, thyme, freshly cracked pepper: These seasonings create the distinctive Cajun profile, full of complexity and warmth.
- Chicken broth and water: Cook the pasta while infusing it with savory flavors.
- Penne pasta: A substantial choice that holds up well to the sauce and ingredients.
- Half and half or cream: Adds a touch of creaminess, enhancing the sauce’s luscious texture.
- Fresh parsley and green onions: Brighten the dish, adding freshness and a pop of color.
Variations
One of the joys of making Pastalaya is its flexibility. Tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs, and watch as it transforms into a dish all your own.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the sausage with smoked tofu or another plant-based sausage for a vegetarian take.
- Seafood Twist: Add shrimp during the last few minutes of cooking for a delightful seafood version.
- Spice Level: For a milder dish, reduce the Creole seasoning or opt for a spice-free version for the kids.
How to Make Pastalaya
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Slice the smoked sausage into thin rounds, then halve the larger pieces for even cooking. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat, and cook the sausage until beautifully browned, about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavor base and creates delicious browned bits on the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Mince the garlic, adding it to the pot with the sausage. Allow it to sauté for a minute, releasing a fragrant aroma. Then add the frozen seasoning mix, cooking until heated through, approximately 3-5 minutes. This mixture imparts a complex, foundational flavor typical of Creole cuisine.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Add the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juices, followed by the Creole seasoning, oregano, smoked paprika, thyme, and freshly cracked pepper. Stir well, letting the spices infuse the mixture with a robust, spicy kick.
Step 4: Simmer and Cook the Pasta
Pour in the chicken broth and water, followed by the penne pasta. Stir to combine. Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, stir again briefly, cover, and reduce the heat to low, letting it simmer for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender and absorbs flavors.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Turn off the heat and stir in the half and half or cream for a rich finish. Mix in most of the chopped parsley and green onions, reserving some for garnish. Serve hot, enjoying the vibrant, heartwarming flavors of Pastalaya.
Pro Tips for Making Pastalaya
- Sausage Selection: Using a good quality Andouille sausage adds authentic smoky spice that enhances the overall dish.
- Even Simmering: Stir the pot occasionally during simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Perfect Creaminess: Let the half and half or cream come to room temperature before adding, preventing curdling and ensuring a smooth texture.
- Fresh Garnish: Add the final sprinkle of parsley and green onions just before serving to maintain their fresh, vibrant color and flavor.
How to Serve Pastalaya
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley and sliced green onions not only adds color but also delivers a refreshing brightness that cuts through the dish’s rich flavors. You could also add a wedge of lemon for a zesty finish!
Side Dishes
Pair Pastalaya with a light side salad or crusty bread to sop up the delicious, spiced sauce. For a heartier meal, consider sides like cornbread or a simple green bean dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Pastalaya in vibrant bowls to highlight the dish’s bright colors or plate it family-style on a large platter, garnished with extra parsley and green onions for a touch of elegance at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Pastalaya can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Allow it to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness. A perfect batch-cook option for your meal prep plans.
Freezing
For longer storage, place portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Freeze for up to three months, and ensure you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Just thaw in the fridge when you’re ready for a flavorful, ready-made meal.
Reheating
Reheat Pastalaya slowly on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to refresh the sauce. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until hot throughout, stirring halfway to ensure uniform warmth.
FAQs
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Can I make Pastalaya without sausage?
Absolutely, you can substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative or extra veggies like mushrooms for a vegetarian spin.
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Is Pastalaya very spicy?
It has a moderate spice from Creole seasoning, but you can adjust the heat by tweaking the amount or choosing a mild blend.
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Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use any sturdy pasta that holds its shape well, like rigatoni or macaroni, for different textures.
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What if I don’t have pre-made frozen seasoning mix?
You can easily create your own by finely chopping onions, bell peppers, and celery in equal parts. It’s a straightforward substitute with fresh ingredients.
Final Thoughts
Pastalaya is a delightful culinary adventure that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering. I hope you fall in love with its unique blend of flavors just as much as I did. Serve it up and enjoy the smiles around the table—it’s a dish sure to impress!
Print
Pastalaya Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Louisiana / Creole
Description
Pastalaya is a flavorful Louisiana-inspired pasta dish that combines smoked sausage, seasoning, and a rich creole flavor profile. Perfect for a hearty, comforting meal, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with bold spices and ingredients.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
– 1 Tbsp vegetable oil – 1/2 lb. smoked sausage (preferably Andouille)Vegetables and Seasonings
– 2 cloves garlic – 1 10oz. bag frozen seasoning mix (onion, bell pepper, celery) – 1/2 Tbsp Creole seasoning – 1/2 tsp oregano – 1/2 tsp smoked paprika – 1/4 tsp thyme – Freshly cracked pepperLiquids and Pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth – 1 cup water – 1 lb. penne pastaFinish and Garnish
– 2 Tbsp half and half or cream – 1/2 bunch fresh parsley – 1/2 bunch green onionsInstructions
- Brown the sausage: Slice the smoked sausage into thin rounds, then cut larger pieces in half. Add the sausage and vegetable oil to a large pot and cook over medium heat until well browned, about 5 minutes.
- Sauté garlic: Mince the garlic cloves and add them to the pot. Sauté for 1 minute until soft and fragrant.
- Add seasoning mix: Stir in the frozen seasoning mix and sauté until heated through, approximately 3-5 minutes.
- Add tomatoes and spices: Add diced tomatoes with juices, Creole seasoning, oregano, smoked paprika, thyme, and freshly cracked pepper. Mix well.
- Cook pasta: Pour in chicken broth and water. Add the pasta, stir to combine, and cover with a lid.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking.
- Finish with cream and herbs: Turn off heat and stir in half and half or cream. Mix in most of the chopped parsley and green onions, reserving some for garnish. Serve hot.
Notes
- Frozen seasoning mix is convenient, but you can use fresh chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery if desired.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; if making your own creole seasoning, consider including paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and salt.
- The dish can be customized with other proteins such as shrimp or chicken for variation.
- Leftovers can be stored refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 472 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 715mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 66g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
