Creamy Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta

Save this recipe on:

Creamy Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta is a celebration in a bowl. Loaded with bold Cajun flavors, velvety cream sauce, juicy shrimp, tender chicken, and smoky Andouille sausage, it brings the festive spirit of Louisiana right to your dinner table. If you’re craving a restaurant-style pasta dish with just the right amount of spice and decadence, this recipe will not disappoint.

It’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary night into something memorable. With rich seasoning and colorful ingredients, it feels like Mardi Gras with every bite. Whether you’re planning a special date night or cooking for a crowd, this is comfort food with a Southern flair that everyone will rave about.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta

This pasta hits all the right notes: it’s creamy without being too heavy, full of layers of flavor from Cajun spices and seared meats, and incredibly easy to customize. You can adjust the heat, swap out proteins, or even toss in some veggies like bell peppers or spinach.

What makes it stand out is how everything works together in harmony. The sausage brings the smoke, the shrimp adds sweetness from the sea, and the chicken gives a tender bite. The creamy sauce pulls it all together in a luscious, satisfying way.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Traditionally, this recipe is made with pappardelle or linguine, both of which have enough surface area to hold the creamy sauce beautifully. If you can’t find those, fettuccine or even penne are great backups. The important thing is to use pasta that can carry a rich, thick sauce without becoming overwhelmed.

Ingredients for the Creamy Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta

The beauty of this recipe is how each ingredient builds flavor into the next. Start with quality proteins and fresh aromatics, and you’re already halfway to something delicious.

• Pappardelle pasta
• Shrimp
• Chicken breast
• Andouille sausage
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic
• Butter
• Cajun seasoning
• Paprika
• Onion
• Bell pepper
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley

Each of these ingredients adds depth. The Andouille sausage is key for its smoky bite, and shrimp brings in sweetness and tenderness. Heavy cream and Parmesan create a sauce that’s thick and velvety, while Cajun seasoning brings that signature Southern heat.

How To Make the Creamy Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta

Step 1: Sear the Meats

In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced Andouille sausage and sear until golden. Remove and set aside. Season chicken breast with Cajun seasoning and cook in the same skillet until browned and cooked through. Remove and slice.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Add butter to the skillet. Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning and cook until just pink, about 2 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pan, add diced onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

Lower the heat. Pour in heavy cream and stir gently, scraping up all the flavorful bits. Add Parmesan cheese and paprika, whisking until the sauce thickens. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine and Toss

Add the cooked pappardelle pasta to the skillet, followed by the sausage, chicken, and shrimp. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce. Let it simmer for 2 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm. Add extra Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice if you’d like.

Serving and Storing This Creamy Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta

This hearty pasta recipe feeds about 4 to 6 people depending on portion size. It’s ideal for dinner parties or indulgent weeknight meals. Serve it with garlic bread or a light salad to balance the richness.

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life. Avoid microwaving for too long, as the shrimp can become rubbery.

What to Serve With Creamy Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta?

Garlic Herb Bread

Buttery, crispy, and perfect for scooping up leftover sauce from the plate.

Southern-Style Green Beans

A lighter veggie side to contrast the richness of the pasta.

Cornbread Muffins

These add a nice Southern touch and can hold up to the saucy pasta.

Simple Arugula Salad

A peppery, lemon-dressed salad helps cut through the creaminess.

Cajun Roasted Vegetables

Roasted okra, zucchini, and carrots seasoned with Cajun spices are a tasty addition.

Fried Green Tomatoes

Crispy and tangy, they add texture and a hint of acidity.

Iced Sweet Tea or Lemonade

Balance the spice with a cool Southern drink.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you’re loving the creamy comfort of this Mardi Gras pasta, check out these other popular recipes:

• Try our Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a cozy weeknight dinner.
• The Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is fast, family-friendly, and loaded with flavor.
• Give your pasta night a twist with Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce.
• If you love Alfredo, don’t miss the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta.
• Want something smoked and easy? Go with our One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Did you spice it up even more? Add mushrooms or maybe some crawfish? Share your tweaks in the comments and let’s inspire each other.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks and more delicious meals on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and find your next favorite dish.

Print

Save this recipe on: