Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta: Creamy Cajun Comfort in 30 Minutes
Bold, creamy, and bursting with Cajun flavor, this quick rattlesnake pasta brings spicy comfort to your dinner table in just 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun / American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
8 ounces penne pasta (cooked until al dente)
1 pound chicken or shrimp
Substitutions: mushrooms, zucchini, or tofu for vegetarian
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1 cup cream
Vegan option: plant-based cream
½ cup cheese (optional)
Parmesan, Monterey Jack, or cheddar
1 cup bell peppers (any variety, sliced)
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes or jalapeños (adjust heat)
Olive oil (for cooking)
Salt (for pasta water)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente (about 10–12 minutes). Drain, reserving ¼ cup of pasta water.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add chicken or shrimp and sauté for 5–7 minutes until fully cooked and lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
Reduce heat to low. In the same skillet, add Cajun seasoning and stir for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in cheese if using, until melted and smooth.
Add cooked pasta and protein back to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly, then add bell peppers and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Adjust seasoning and heat level. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
For extra heat, increase Cajun seasoning or add more red pepper flakes.
Shrimp cooks faster than chicken—avoid overcooking.
Bell peppers can be sautéed longer if you prefer them softer.
This dish reheats well with a splash of cream or milk.
