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Easy Mardi Gras Pasta photo

Mardi Gras Pasta

This Mardi Gras Pasta is a festive delight! Packed with shrimp, andouille sausage, and a creamy sauce, it's a vibrant dish perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Cajun, Creole
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet for sautéing ingredients
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula for mixing
  • Colander for draining pasta

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta:

  • 12 ounces fettuccine
  • 8 tablespoons butter divided
  • 1 pound medium to large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 4 green onions sliced
  • 1/4 cup diced yellow pepper
  • 1/4 cup diced green pepper
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 12 ounces andouille sausage sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup diced tomato
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Preparation Steps:

  • Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine - Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 12 ounces of fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water for later use.
  • Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp - In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning them with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  • Step 3: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables - In the same skillet, add the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the sliced andouille sausage and sauté for about 5 minutes until browned. Then, add the sliced green onions, diced yellow and green peppers, sliced mushrooms, and minced garlic. Sauté for an additional 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
  • Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Cream - Stir in the diced tomatoes and let them cook for about 2 minutes. Then, pour in the 1 cup of heavy cream and mix well. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
  • Step 5: Combine Everything - Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and add the drained fettuccine. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired consistency. Stir in the 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and 1/3 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Step 6: Garnish and Serve - Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat. Garnish your Mardi Gras Pasta with chopped fresh parsley and enjoy the vibrant colors and flavors!

Notes

  • Customize it by swapping shrimp for chicken or tofu.
  • Add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for more nutrients.
  • For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
Keyword Creamy, Easy, Seafood