Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta is a bold, Cajun-inspired dish that combines tender shrimp, smoky andouille sausage, and colorful bell peppers in a creamy tomato-Cajun sauce. Tossed with linguine or fettuccine, this hearty pasta captures the festive spirit of Mardi Gras in every bite. Rich, savory, and slightly spicy, it’s a restaurant-style meal you can recreate in just 40 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Cajun Flair – Andouille sausage and Cajun seasoning deliver signature Southern flavor.
• Creamy, Balanced Sauce – Tomatoes and heavy cream create a velvety yet vibrant base.
• Surf and Turf Combination – Shrimp and sausage provide layered protein and texture.
• Colorful and Festive – Red and green bell peppers add brightness and visual appeal.
• Hearty and Satisfying – A complete main course with protein, carbs, and bold seasoning.
• Customizable Heat Level – Easily increase spice with red pepper flakes or extra Cajun seasoning.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta

• 1 pound linguine or fettuccine pasta – Provides a sturdy base that holds creamy sauce well.
• Salt (for pasta water) – Enhances flavor from the inside out.

For the Cajun Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Used to sauté aromatics and sausage evenly.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Builds foundational sweetness and depth.
• 1 red bell pepper, diced – Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced – Contributes mild bitterness and balance.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances savory complexity.
• 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced – Provides smoky, spicy Cajun character.
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – Adds tender seafood flavor and protein.
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained – Adds acidity and texture.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a rich, velvety sauce.
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning – Infuses warmth and spice.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – Adjusts overall seasoning.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped – Adds brightness and freshness.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Contributes savory, umami richness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water if needed.

Sauté the Vegetables

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Brown the Sausage

Stir in minced garlic and sliced andouille sausage. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the sausage is lightly browned and aromatic.

Cook the Shrimp

Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes, just until pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.

Build the Creamy Sauce

Pour in diced tomatoes (with juices) and heavy cream. Stir to combine, then season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat in the sauce. Cook for 2–3 additional minutes to heat through, adding reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Recipe Notes & Tips

• Salt the Pasta Water Well – Properly seasoned water enhances the overall dish flavor.
• Avoid Overcooking Shrimp – Cook only until opaque to prevent rubbery texture.
• Simmer Gently – Keep the sauce at a low simmer to prevent cream from separating.
• Balance Spice Carefully – Taste before adding extra seasoning; andouille already contains heat.
• Reserve Pasta Water – A splash can loosen and emulsify the sauce if it thickens too much.
• Use Fresh Parmesan – Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded varieties.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approximately 650 kcal per serving
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Sodium: 1200mg
• Fiber: 2g

Perfect Pairings

• Garlic Bread – Complements the creamy sauce and adds crunch.
• Simple Caesar Salad – Balances richness with crisp freshness.
• Grilled Asparagus – Adds earthy contrast and color.
• Sparkling Lemon Water or Iced Tea – Refreshes the palate between bites.

Ideal Occasions

• Mardi Gras Celebrations – Festive and flavorful centerpiece dish.
• Family Dinner Nights – Hearty and satisfying for all ages.
• Date Night at Home – Elegant yet approachable comfort food.
• Casual Dinner Parties – Easy to prepare in large batches.

Storage & Serving Tips

• Refrigerate Properly – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat Gently – Warm over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.
• Avoid Freezing Cream Sauce – Cream-based sauces may separate when thawed.
• Garnish Freshly – Add extra parsley and Parmesan just before serving.

Creative Variations to Try

• Spicier Cajun Kick – Add 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes while sautéing vegetables.
• Chicken Swap – Substitute shrimp with sliced chicken breast for a different protein profile.
• Scallop Upgrade – Replace shrimp with seared scallops for an upscale twist.
• Lighter Version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for reduced richness.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Sauce Too Thick – Stir in reserved pasta water or a splash of broth.
• Sauce Too Thin – Simmer uncovered a few extra minutes to reduce.
• Shrimp Overcooked – Add shrimp later and remove from heat promptly once opaque.
• Too Salty – Balance with a splash of cream or unsalted diced tomatoes.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe succeeds because it layers flavors strategically. Browning andouille sausage releases smoky fats that flavor the vegetables, while shrimp add delicate sweetness and protein. The acidity of diced tomatoes balances the richness of heavy cream, creating a stable, emulsified sauce that clings to pasta strands. Cajun seasoning ties everything together with warm spice and depth. At approximately 650 calories per serving, this dish is indulgent yet balanced with protein and carbohydrates for a complete, satisfying meal.

Final Thoughts

Pappadeaux Mardi Gras Pasta delivers bold Cajun flavor in a creamy, comforting format that feels both festive and approachable. Its combination of seafood, sausage, and vibrant vegetables creates dynamic texture and richness in every bite. For a lighter alternative, reduce the cream slightly or increase the vegetable ratio while keeping the spice profile intact. Whether for celebration or weeknight comfort, this pasta brings the spirit of Mardi Gras straight to your table.