You won’t believe how much fun I had learning this how to make authentic pastalaya recipe!
I don’t know how, but the combination of flavors really brings this dish to life.
I think you’ll love how delicious it is to make.
The real Louisiana pastalaya recipe is a very pleasant twist on the classic jambalaya, swapping out rice for pasta to create something like nothing else in the world.
This dish is packed with the rich flavors of sausage, chicken, and shrimp, all mixed with bell peppers, onions, and garlic in a savory tomato-based sauce.
Table of Content
- 1 How did I learn this dish?
- 2 Recipe
- 3 Method Instructions
- 3.1 Method of Instruction
- 3.2 Step 2: Prep the Ingredients (10 minutes)
- 3.3 Step 3: Cook the Chicken and Sausage (10 minutes)
- 3.4 Step 4: Saute the vegetables (5 minutes)
- 3.5 Step 5: Combine and (slightly boil or be quietly angry) (20 minutes)**
- 3.6 Step 6: Cook the Pasta (10 minutes)
- 3.7 Step 7: Mix it All Together (5 minutes)
- 3.8 Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- 4 More Recipes You May Like
- 5 Recipe Video
- 6 Servings
- 7 Tips
- 8 Ingredient Substitutes
- 9 FAQ’S
- 9.1 What is pastalaya made of?
- 9.2 What goes with pastalaya for dinner?
- 9.3 How many calories are in pastalaya?
- 9.4 What is jambalaya pasta made of?
- 9.5 Why is it called jambalaya?
- 9.6 How do you spell pastalaya?
- 9.7 How to make pasta for party?
- 9.8 What do you eat with pasta meal?
- 9.9 What’s the difference between gumbo and jambalaya?
- 10 Remarks
How did I learn this dish?
I don’t know how I first accidentally came upon this authentic southern pastalaya recipe, but I can tell you that it was love at first bite.
I think it all started during a trip to New Orleans, where I immersed myself in the full-life culture and food of Louisiana.
There’s something magical about the way they blend spices and flavors down there—it’s like every dish tells a story.
One evening, I was invited to a local family’s backyard gathering. I knew I had to bring traditional pastalaya recipe back home with me.
A little bit about the origin of pastalaya: it’s a twist on the classic jambalaya, which usually used rice. This new and interesting version uses pasta instead, giving it a texture that’s just as comforting.
Here are a couple of interesting little things about pastalaya:
- Pastalaya’s: This dish became popular as a convenient way to feed large groups at gatherings, combining the of jambalaya with the ease of pasta.
- Cultural connection: Just like jambalaya, pastalaya is deeply rooted in Louisiana’s melting pot of French, Spanish, and African influences, making it a true celebration of the area’s food-related history.
Cooking and sharing this dish has become one of my favorite ways to bring a piece of Louisiana to my own table, and I’m excited to share it with you!
Recipe
So gather your ingredients, embrace the culinary adventure, and treat yourself to a taste of Cajun cuisine that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients
Category: Main Dish
Cuisine: Cajun, Creole
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories per Serving: 450-500 calories
1 lb halal-certified smoked sausage, sliced |
1 lb chicken breast or thighs, diced |
2 tablespoons vegetable oil |
1 large onion, finely chopped |
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped |
2 celery stalks, finely chopped |
4 cloves garlic, minced |
2 cups chicken broth |
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes |
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce |
1 tablespoon substitute with a mixture of soy sauce and a small amount of vinegar with a dash of molasses or sugar to mimic the flavor |
1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, adjust to taste) |
2 teaspoons Creole seasoning |
1 teaspoon dried thyme |
1 teaspoon dried oregano |
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika |
1/2 teaspoon black pepper |
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) |
8 oz penne or other pasta |
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish) |
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) |
Equipment Used:
Large pot or Dutch oven |
Cutting board |
Knife |
Measuring cups and spoons |
Wooden spoon or spatula |
Ladle |
Colander (for draining pasta if pre-cooking) |
Serving utensils |
Method Instructions
Let’s dive into this real pastalaya recipe louisiana and create something truly delicious together. But I can tell you that we’ll start with the basics and take it step by step.
Method of Instruction
Step 1: Wash your hands.
Before we begin, make sure to wash your hands completely. It’s the first step to great cooking!
Step 2: Prep the Ingredients (10 minutes)
Dice your chicken, slice the sausage, and chop all the veggies. Getting everything ready honestly makes cooking so much smoother.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken and Sausage (10 minutes)
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and sliced sausage, cooking until the chicken is no longer pink and the sausage is browned. This should take about 7–10 minutes. Remove it from the pot and set it aside.
Step 4: Saute the vegetables (5 minutes)
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery. Saute until they’re tender, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until nice-smelling.
Step 5: Combine and (slightly boil or be quietly angry) (20 minutes)**
Return the chicken and sausage to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Add Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, creole seasoning, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it for 20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to combine together.
Step 6: Cook the Pasta (10 minutes)
While the mixture is slightly boiling or slightly angry, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 7: Mix it All Together (5 minutes)
Add the cooked pasta to the pot and mix well, securing and making sure the pasta is evenly coated with the delicious flavor sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes so the pasta can soak up some of the sauce.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Serve your pastalaya hot, decorated with chopped green onions and fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
I think this dish is going to be a hit at your table. But I can tell you that if you have any twists or additions, feel free to share them in the comments. Enjoy your cooking-fun trip!
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- Ground Beef Recipes Without Pasta
- Jersey Mikes Tuna Recipe
- O’sheas Frozen Baileys Recipe
Recipe Video
Best Authentic Pastalaya Recipe
This is the video about how to make authentic pastalaya recipe at home.
Author: Chef Alden B
Rated: 4.2 of 5.0 from 274 reviews.
Servings
Let’s explore delicious ways to serve this best louisiana pastalaya recipe that will wow your family and friends.
- In a Bread Bow: Hollow out a round loaf of bread and fill it with steaming hot pastalaya for a warm and simple presentation.
- Stuffed Bell Peppers: Spoon the pastalaya into halved and hollowed bell peppers, then bake until the peppers are tender and a little blackened by fire.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a lighter option, serve pastalaya on large lettuce leaves. It’s fresh, crunchy, and fun to eat!
- Pineapple Bowls: Scoop out a pineapple half and use the shell as a bowl for a (related to areas near the hot twist. The pineapple chunks inside add a sweet touch to the spicy dish.
- Over Baked Potatoes: Top baked potatoes with a generous part of or amount of pastalaya for a comforting and filling meal.
- In a Casserole: Layer the pastalaya with shredded cheese in a baking dish and bake until happy and golden for a low-quality, cheese-like, baked version.
- With Tortilla Chips: Serve pastalaya as a warm dip with a side of crispy tortilla chips for a party-ready snack.
- In Taco Shells: Fill crunchy or soft taco shells with pastalaya for a fusion take on tacos that’s packed with flavor.
- In Mason Jars: Layer pastalaya in mason jars for a portable and beautiful serving option, perfect for picnics or lunch on the go.
- With Fried Plantains: Pair the pastalaya with fried plantains on the side for a sweet and savory combination that’s simply so attractive, sweet, etc., that you cannot resist.
I think these serving ideas will bring a whole new level of excitement to your pastalaya experience.
Tips
Here are tips to lift up or raise your homemade pastalaya recipe, keeping it full of delicious flavor and fun!
1. Marinate the chicken: The chicken pieces for at least 30 minutes to soak them with extra flavor.
2. Pre-cook the sausage: Cook the sausage slices separately first to get a nice, crispy texture before adding them to the dish.
3. Use fresh garlic. Freshly minced garlic will have a stronger and healthier flavor compared to pre-minced garlic.
4. Don’t Rush the Sofrito: Take your time sautéing the onion, bell pepper, and celery. This forms the flavor base of the dish.
5. Deglaze the Pan: After sautéing the vegetables, deglaze the pan with a bit of chicken broth to pick up all those delicious-flavored brown bits.
6. Add Spices Early: Add the spices when cooking the sofrito to let them bloom and release their full (nice) smell.
7. Simmer Slowly: Let the dish gently to allow all the flavors to combine beautifully.
8. Use Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Fresh parsley and green onions as a garnish will add a full-of-life, fresh touch.
9. Adjust Seasonings at the End: Taste and salt, pepper, and hot sauce at the end to get the seasoning just right.
10. Let it rest: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors to settle.
I think these tips will help you make the best pastalaya ever. But I can tell you that trying them out will definitely bring your dish to a new level of deliciousness.
Ingredient Substitutes
Let’s talk about ingredient substitutes for this traditional pastalaya recipe louisiana that will keep things exciting and delicious.
1. Chicken Sausage for Andouille Sausage: If you prefer a milder flavor, chicken sausage is a great alternative to traditional andouille sausage.
2. Turkey for Chicken: Swap out the chicken breast or thighs for turkey breast or thighs for a little leaner option.
3. Olive Oil for Vegetable Oil: Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil for a richer, stronger, and healthier flavor.
4. Red Bell Pepper for Green Bell Pepper: If you want a sweeter taste, red bell peppers are a perfect substitute for green bell peppers.
5. Brown Rice for Pasta: For a healthier, gluten-free option, replace the pasta with cooked brown rice.
6. Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt content in your dish without sacrificing flavor.
7. Crushed Tomatoes for Diced Tomatoes: If you prefer a smoother texture, crushed tomatoes can replace diced tomatoes.
8. Tomato Paste and Water for Tomato Sauce: Mix tomato paste with water to create a homemade tomato sauce substitute.
9. Soy sauce for Worcestershire sauce: Soy sauce can bring almost the same umami depth if you’re out of Worcestershire sauce.
10. Cajun Seasoning for Creole Seasoning: Cajun seasoning can be used in place of Creole seasoning for a spicier kick.
But I can tell you that experimenting with different ingredients can lead to some amazing new flavors. Try these out and let us know which ones you love!
FAQ’S
What is pastalaya made of?
Pasta is made with a combination of pasta, meat (such as sausage or chicken), vegetables, and Creole seasoning.
What goes with pastalaya for dinner?
Pasta pairs well with garlic bread, salad, or steamed vegetables for a warm dinner.
How many calories are in pastalaya?
The calorie count in pastalaya can change based on ingredients, but it usually ranges from 300 to 500 calories per serving.
What is jambalaya pasta made of?
Jambalaya pasta usually includes pasta, Cajun-seasoned meats (like chicken or shrimp), bell peppers, onions, and a spicy tomato-based sauce.
Why is it called jambalaya?
Jambalaya gets its name from the Spanish word jambalaia, which means mishmash or mix-up, reflecting the many different kinds of people or things in the dish.
How do you spell pastalaya?
Pastalaya is spelled as pastalaya, combining pasta and jambalaya.
How to make pasta for party?
To make pasta for a party, cook a large batch of pasta according to package instructions and serve with a variety of sauces and toppings for guests to customize.
What do you eat with pasta meal?
Common smaller parts of a pasta meal include garlic bread, salad, grilled vegetables, or a side of protein like chicken or fish.
What’s the difference between gumbo and jambalaya?
The main difference between gumbo and jambalaya lies in their base: gumbo is a soup or stew with a thick broth, while jambalaya is a rice-based dish cooked with meat and vegetables.
Remarks
Looking to add a delicious flavor twist to your dinner table? Dive into the world of real pastalaya, where savory meats, nice-smelling spices, and tender pasta come together in a very pleasant combination of flavors.