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Plate of Quick Jambalaya Pasta topped with fresh herbs and spices

Quick Jambalaya Pasta

A delightful twist on classic jambalaya that combines smoky sausage, tender shrimp, and vibrant bell peppers with pasta for a comforting meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Protein
  • 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced (andouille is fantastic if you want a kick) Can substitute with chicken or tofu for a vegetarian version.
  • 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
Vegetables
  • 1 bell pepper diced (red, green, or yellow)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes, with juices (14.5 oz)
Liquids and Seasoning
  • 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
  • Green onions or parsley, for garnish
Oil
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Sausage and Vegetables
  1. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 5 minutes until golden brown.
  2. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add garlic in the last minute.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Incorporate the diced tomatoes, shrimp, and Cajun seasoning. Pour in the broth and stir. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until shrimp are pink and tender.
  2. Reduce heat and toss the cooked pasta into the skillet. Stir until pasta is coated in sauce.
Final Seasoning and Garnish
  1. Season to taste with salt and pepper, and garnish with green onions or parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4g

Notes

For extra spice, add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Vegan option: use tempeh or lentils and plant-based broth. Serve with garlic bread and a side salad for a complete meal.

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