Name: Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta: 7 Steps to a Spicy Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb penne pasta; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp olive oil, divided; 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1/2 red onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2-3 jalapeño peppers, sliced (remove seeds for less heat); 4 tbsp butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk or half-and-half; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta is a culinary masterpiece that brings together the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine and creamy goodness. This decadent dish transforms ordinary penne into a spice-laden delight that dances on the palate. With its rich cream sauce and the perfect amount of heat from jalapeños, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta recipe is bound to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta

This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a quick and easy meal option. Here are several reasons to love it:

Rich, creamy texture that pairs perfectly with spicy flavors.
Quick preparation time, ideal for busy weeknights.
Uses simple ingredients to create a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Flexibility to customize with different proteins or vegetables.
Perfect for both pasta lovers and those looking for a spicy kick.
Enjoy the comfort of a hearty meal that’s also gluten-free.
Great for meal prep or leftovers, staying delicious even after reheating.

Ingredients for Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta

Gather these items:

1 lb penne pasta
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1/2 red onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2-3 jalapeño peppers, sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
4 tbsp butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk or half-and-half
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta Step-by-Step

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Season the chicken pieces with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
Step 3: Remove the chicken to a plate and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Sauté the red and green bell peppers, red onion, and jalapeño peppers for 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften but still maintain some crispness.
Step 4: Add the minced garlic and remaining ½ teaspoon of Cajun seasoning to the vegetables. Cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 5: Push the vegetables to the side of the pan and add the butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux.
Step 6: Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until completely melted. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Return the chicken to the skillet along with the cooked pasta, tossing gently to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Sprinkle with fresh parsley just before serving for a bright finish and beautiful presentation.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta

Keep these in mind:

Working in batches helps achieve better browning of the chicken.
Adjust jalapeño peppers for desired heat level to customize spice.
Use pasta water to adjust sauce consistency, keeping it creamy.
Consider adding shrimp for a variation of Rattlesnake Pasta with shrimp.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta

Here are a few ideas for serving:

Pair it with garlic bread for a comforting dinner.
Serve alongside a fresh salad to balance the richness.
Top with extra Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta

After enjoying this delicious dish, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to maintain creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta

What is creamy rattlesnake pasta?

This delightful dish is a creamy pasta recipe with a spicy kick, typically featuring Cajun seasoning and various vegetables. For more on Cajun cuisine, check out this Cajun cuisine guide.

Can I make creamy rattlesnake pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Just store the sauce separately and mix it with the pasta and chicken when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with creamy rattlesnake pasta?

To avoid mistakes, ensure not to overcook the pasta and whisk the roux continuously to prevent lumps in the sauce.

Variations of Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Swap chicken for shrimp in the Rattlesnake pasta with shrimp version.
Add spinach or kale for extra greens.
Try a vegetarian version by using mushrooms instead of chicken.