Pappadeaux Pasta Mardi Gras Recipe

Whenever my family and I visit Pappadeaux’s, we always make sure to order their Pasta Mardi Gras. It’s a deliciously rich Cajun pasta loaded with shrimp, crawfish, and andouille sausage in a creamy tomato sauce. The flavors are bold, comforting, and always leave us craving more. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a special treat, but it’s surprisingly easy to make at home!

This Pappadeaux Pasta Mardi Gras recipe brings that same New Orleans-inspired flavor to your kitchen, and it’s perfect for anyone who loves a little spice and a lot of comfort food.

If you’re looking to add some Cajun flair to your next meal, this recipe is just what you need!

What Is Pappadeaux Pasta Mardi Gras Recipe?

The Pappadeaux Pasta Mardi Gras recipe is inspired by the vibrant and bold flavors of Louisiana. This creamy Cajun pasta is made with succulent shrimp, juicy crawfish, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a rich, flavorful sauce.

With a hint of spice and a creamy texture, it’s a comforting dish that’s also packed with excitement.

Why You’ll Love Pappadeaux Pasta Mardi Gras

1. Bursting with flavor: This dish combines creamy, spicy, and savory elements, making each bite irresistible.
2. Restaurant-quality at home: Enjoy a gourmet meal in the comfort of your own kitchen, perfect for impressing friends and family.
3. Customizable: You can easily add your favorite proteins, like chicken or sausage, and veggies, such as mushrooms or spinach, to make the dish uniquely yours.
4. Quick and easy: Despite its rich flavor, this recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for both casual dinners and special occasions.
5. Comforting and satisfying: The creamy sauce and hearty pasta make it a filling, comforting meal everyone will love.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to recreate this delicious dish:

• 12 oz. crawfish tails
• 5 large shrimp, deveined, with tails on
• 1 lb. linguine or fettuccine pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 stick of butter
• 6 Roma tomatoes, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ onion, finely chopped
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Juice of half a lemon

Easy Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t have all the ingredients? No worries! Here are some substitutions:

1. Shrimp and crawfish: Use crab meat, andouille sausage, or chicken for a different protein.
2. Cajun seasoning: Substitute with Creole seasoning or a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Vegetables: Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for a veggie boost.
4. Linguine pasta: Swap for penne, spaghetti, or your favorite pasta.

Kitchen Appliances You’ll Need

1. Large pot: For boiling pasta.
2. Large skillet or sauté pan: To cook the sauce and combine ingredients.
3. Cutting board and knife: For chopping vegetables, proteins, and any other ingredients.
4. Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing your dish as it cooks.
5. Strainer: To drain the pasta once it’s done cooking.

How to Make Pappadeaux Pasta Mardi Gras

Step 1 | Prepare Your Ingredients

Chop the vegetables, mince the garlic, and slice the tomatoes.

Step 2 | Sauté the Vegetables

In a skillet, melt the butter. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant.

Step 3 | Sauté the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium heat with olive oil and a bit of butter. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.

Step 4 | Make the Sauce

Add tomatoes to the Sauté Vegetables and let them cook down. Stir in the heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat until it thickens slightly.

Step 5 | Cook the Pasta

Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente (firm but cooked). Drain and set aside.

Step 6 | Combine crawfish

Add the crawfish tails and cooked shrimp to the sauce. Let them simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Step 7 | Set cooked pasta on a serving plate

Place the cooked pasta on a serving plate, then pour the sauce over it, ensuring every piece is evenly coated.

Step 8 | Finish with Parmesan and Lemon

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the dish. Stir well and garnish with green onions.

Recipe Notes

• Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be tender and juicy.
• If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.
• Use fresh Parmesan for the best flavor.

Recipe Variations and Additions

1. Add a smoky kick: For an extra layer of flavor, use smoked paprika or chipotle powder in the sauce. This will give the dish a subtle smoky heat that’s both bold and delicious.
2. Go veggie-friendly: If you prefer a plant-based version, skip the seafood and add mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables. These options will still bring plenty of flavor and texture to the dish.
3. Extra protein: To boost the protein, toss in grilled chicken, sausage, or even scallops. These additions will make the dish even heartier and more filling, perfect for a satisfying meal.

How to Serve Your Pappadeaux Pasta Mardi Gras

Here are some great serving suggestions for your Pappadeaux Pasta Mardi Gras recipe:

1. Pair with a side salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich, creamy pasta.
2. Add garlic bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a perfect side that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
3. Top with fresh herbs: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness.
4. Serve with a cold drink: Pair your meal with a refreshing iced tea or a crisp white wine to balance the heat and creaminess of the dish.
5. Add a squeeze of lemon: A dash of lemon juice over the pasta can brighten the flavors and add a zesty finish.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Leftovers

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: The sauce can be frozen separately for up to 1 month. Reheat gently to avoid splitting.

Reheating: Use a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to refresh the sauce.

Pappadeaux Pasta Mardi Gras Recipe FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare most ingredients in advance. Chop vegetables, clean shrimp, and have everything ready. However, for the best taste, cook the pasta and combine ingredients just before serving to maintain optimal texture and prevent sogginess.

2. Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a mild to moderate spice level from Cajun seasoning. You can easily adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the amount of Cajun seasoning. For those who love extra kick, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

3. Can I use frozen seafood?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp and crawfish. Just ensure they’re completely thawed and patted dry before cooking. Fresh seafood will always provide the best flavor, but frozen works well in a pinch.

4. What’s the best pasta to use?

Linguine and fettuccine work great due to their width and ability to hold sauce. Choose fresh pasta if possible for the most authentic taste. Whole wheat or gluten-free options can also be substituted.

5. How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp turn pink and curl slightly when done. They typically take 2-3 minutes per side. Avoid overcooking, as they can become rubbery. They’re ready when they form a loose “C” shape.

6. How can I make the sauce creamier?

Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half. Be careful not to add too much, as it can dilute the Cajun flavors. A small amount goes a long way.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese?

While Parmesan is traditional, you could experiment with:

• Pecorino Romano
• Asiago
• Grated Gruyère

Conclusion

There you have it – a Pappadeaux pasta Mardi Gras recipe is ready to your dinner table! This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor, culture, and pure joy. I hope you’ll give it a try and create some delicious memories.

Don’t forget to share your cooking experience with us! We’d love to see your version of this incredible pasta. Snap a photo, tag us, and let us know how it turned out.

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