Mardi Gras Pasta

Mardi Gras Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that captures the spirit of the festive season. Bursting with a medley of shrimp, andouille sausage, and colorful vegetables, this dish is both satisfying and celebratory. Creamy and rich, it’s the perfect meal to enjoy while celebrating or simply indulging in a taste of New Orleans. The combination of spices adds a delightful kick, making each bite a delicious experience. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this culinary masterpiece!

Why This Recipe Works

This Mardi Gras Pasta works wonders for several reasons. First, it combines fresh seafood with the smoky flavor of andouille sausage, making it a true taste of New Orleans. The use of Cajun seasoning and paprika infuses the dish with flavor while the heavy cream brings a luxurious creaminess that ties everything together. The variety of colorful vegetables not only adds nutrition but also enhances the visual appeal, making it a feast for the eyes. With straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Ingredient Breakdown

• 12 ounces fettuccine: This pasta shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.
• 8 tablespoons butter, divided: Butter adds richness to the dish and helps in sautéing the ingredients.
• 1 pound medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Shrimp brings a sweet, delicate flavor and quick cooking time.
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning: This spice blend adds a bold kick and authentic New Orleans flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Paprika gives color and a subtle smokiness.
• 4 green onions, sliced: Fresh onions add brightness and texture.
• 1/4 cup diced yellow pepper: Sweet and crunchy, yellow pepper adds color and flavor.
• 1/4 cup diced green pepper: Green pepper offers a slight bitterness that balances the dish.
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms: Mushrooms add earthiness and absorb the flavors of the dish.
• 12 ounces andouille sausage, sliced: This sausage is key for that smoky, savory flavor characteristic of Cajun cuisine.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic enhances the overall flavor profile with its aromatic qualities.
• 1/2 cup diced tomato: Fresh tomatoes add juiciness and acidity.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Cream makes the sauce rich and indulgent.
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice: A touch of acidity brightens the dish and balances the creaminess.
• 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan: This cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the dish.
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: Parsley provides a fresh finish and a pop of color.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors in the dish.

Appliances & Accessories

• Large pot: For boiling the fettuccine to the perfect al dente texture.
• Skillet: To sauté the shrimp, sausage, and vegetables, allowing all the flavors to meld.
• Colander: For draining the pasta after cooking.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: To stir the ingredients and ensure even cooking.

Make Mardi Gras Pasta: A Simple Method

Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp and Sausage

In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook for about 3 minutes until browned. Then, add the shrimp, Cajun seasoning, and paprika. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp and sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the sliced green onions, diced yellow and green peppers, and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Tomato

Add the minced garlic and diced tomato to the skillet with the vegetables, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked fettuccine, shrimp, and sausage back into the skillet. Toss everything together, adding a bit of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Mix until the pasta is well coated.

Step 7: Finish with Parmesan and Parsley

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Mardi Gras Pasta immediately, garnished with extra parsley and Parmesan if desired. Enjoy this festive dish that brings a taste of New Orleans to your table!

Allergy-Friendly Swaps

• Gluten-free pasta: Substitute regular fettuccine with gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Plant-based cream: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
• Chicken or turkey sausage: If andouille sausage isn’t available, opt for chicken or turkey sausage to reduce fat.
• Vegetable broth: Replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter and use vegetable broth to sauté the vegetables for a vegan dish.

What I Learned Testing

• The balance of spices is crucial; adjust the Cajun seasoning based on your heat preference.
• Cooking shrimp just until opaque ensures they remain tender and juicy, avoiding overcooking.
• Adding a splash of pasta water helps to create a creamy, cohesive sauce that clings to the noodles.
• Fresh herbs elevate the dish significantly—don’t skip the parsley!

Storage Pro Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to prevent drying out.
• Freezing is not recommended as the cream can separate upon thawing, but you can freeze the shrimp and sausage separately for future use.

Reader Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?

Yes! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish.

What can I substitute for andouille sausage?

You can use kielbasa, chorizo, or even omit the sausage entirely for a lighter version of Mardi Gras Pasta.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely! You can replace the shrimp and sausage with plant-based alternatives and include more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components separately and combine them just before serving to maintain texture and flavor.

More from the Kitchen

• Shrimp Scampi Linguine
• Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta
• Creamy Mushroom Pasta
• Vegetable Alfredo Fettuccine

The Takeaway

Mardi Gras Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the lively flavors of New Orleans right to your kitchen. The combination of shrimp, sausage, and colorful vegetables in a creamy sauce is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Whether you’re celebrating Mardi Gras or simply looking for a delightful dinner, this pasta dish is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, put on some jazz, and let the cooking begin!