Today, I’m whisking you away to a culinary escapade with a dish that’s as rich in flavor as it is in history—Cheddars New Orleans pasta recipe. Picture this: tender pasta enveloped in a creamy, spicy sauce that’s bursting with the vibrant essence of New Orleans cuisine. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, one that marries simplicity with indulgence. So, grab your apron, and let’s get started on creating the most scrumptious version of this beloved dish.

Table of Contents

Recipe Overview

Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American, Creole
Total Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Before diving into the cooking process, ensure you have the right tools to make this dish a standout. Essential equipment includes:

Large skillet
Saucepan
Strainer
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Cheddars New Orleans pasta recipe demands attention to detail, even in the preparation phase.

Ingredients

Let’s talk ingredients. For this recipe, you’ll need:

Ingredient	Quantity
Penne pasta	400 grams
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Boneless chicken breast	500 grams, diced
Andouille sausage	200 grams, sliced
Red bell pepper	1, diced
Green bell pepper	1, diced
Yellow onion	1, diced
Garlic	3 cloves, minced
Chicken broth	250 ml
Heavy cream	250 ml
Cajun seasoning	1 tablespoon
Salt	To taste
Freshly ground black pepper	To taste
Spring onions	For garnish
Parmesan cheese	For garnish

Did you know? Cajun seasoning, pivotal in New Orleans cuisine, was brought by Acadian immigrants to Louisiana, who adapted their French cooking techniques to local ingredients.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Pasta

Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Always salt your pasta water—it’s the secret to flavorful pasta!

Step 2 – Sauté the Meats

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add diced chicken breast and sliced andouille sausage. Cook until the chicken is golden and no longer pink.

Browning the sausage releases a smoky flavor that’s key to this dish!

Step 3 – Add Vegetables

To the same skillet, add diced bell peppers and onion. Sauté until they are soft.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4 – Combine and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.

Simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5 – Toss Pasta with Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to reheat the pasta.

Coating the pasta evenly is crucial for that perfect bite every time.

Additional Tips

For an extra kick, add more Cajun seasoning according to your taste preferences.
If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with some pasta water.

Pairing Suggestions

To complement Cheddars New Orleans pasta recipe, consider the following:

A crisp, green salad to cut through the richness of the pasta.
Garlic bread, perfect for sopping up the creamy sauce.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	785 kcal
Carbohydrates	80 g
Protein	35 g
Fat	35 g
Saturated Fat	18 g
Cholesterol	135 mg
Sodium	1045 mg

This is an approximation based on the ingredients used.

Dietary Information

This recipe is a fantastic treat for those not on strict dietary regimens. For a gluten-free version, swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta!

FAQs about Cheddars New Orleans Pasta Recipe

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Swap the chicken and sausage for plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh. Adjust the seasoning to compensate for the change in flavor.

What if I can’t find andouille sausage?

You can substitute andouille sausage with another spicy sausage, or for a less spicy dish, use mild Italian sausage.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this pasta tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

How do I adjust the spiciness of the dish?

Control the heat by adjusting the amount of Cajun seasoning and using sweet sausage instead of spicy.

What’s the best way to reheat this pasta?

Reheat over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

Can I freeze Cheddars New Orleans pasta?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Cool completely before freezing in a suitable container.

Are there any other pasta types I can use?

Absolutely! Feel free to use spaghetti, fusilli, or any pasta that holds sauce well.

Conclusion

Cheddars New Orleans pasta recipe is a delightful whirlwind of flavors that brings the essence of New Orleans right to your table. It’s creamy, it’s comforting, and it’s undeniably delicious. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your home.

Now, I’d love to hear from you! Drop your comments, questions, or feedback below. Let’s get the conversation cooking!

Check out some more delicious main dish recipes: