Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta

This is not your average weeknight pasta. Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta is a fiery, creamy revelation—a dish where tender penne, juicy chicken or plump shrimp, and crisp bell peppers are tangled in a luxuriously spiced Cajun cream sauce. It’s bold, restaurant-worthy comfort food that delivers a satisfying kick with every single forkful. The name hints at the bite, but the flavor is pure, addictive magic you can easily create at home.

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Why You’ll Love This Pasta

• Bold & Balanced: A perfect harmony of rich, creamy sauce and vibrant, spicy Cajun flavor.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cook your protein, veggies, and sauce all in the same skillet for easy cleanup.
• 30-Minute Meal: Impressive enough for guests, quick enough for a busy Tuesday.
• Totally Customizable: Adjust the heat, swap the protein, or load up on your favorite veggies.
• Better Than Takeout: A decadent, flavor-packed restaurant-style dish made in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta & Protein:

• Penne Pasta: 12 oz—its shape is perfect for holding the creamy sauce.
• Protein: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (thinly sliced) or large shrimp (peeled & deveined).
• Olive Oil & Butter: 1 tbsp each—for searing and building flavor.
• Bell Peppers: 1 red and 1 green, thinly sliced for sweetness and crunch.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.

For the Signature Sauce:

• Heavy Cream: 1 ½ cups – creates the luscious, velvety base.
• Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated—for salty, umami depth.
• Cajun Seasoning: 2 tsp – the essential spice blend.
• Smoked Paprika: ½ tsp – adds warm, smoky notes.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ½ tsp (or to taste) – controls the spicy “bite.”
• Salt & Black Pepper: To taste.

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped.
• A squeeze of fresh lime juice.

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How to Make It: Step-by-Step

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil penne in well-salted water until al dente (about 1 minute less than package directions). Reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water, then drain.
2. Sear the Protein: Season chicken or shrimp with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Cook until golden and cooked through (4-5 mins per side for chicken, 2-3 mins per side for shrimp). Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, melt butter with a drizzle of oil. Add sliced peppers and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Build the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Sprinkle in remaining Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir for 30 seconds to toast the spices. Pour in the heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil).
5. Finish the Sauce: Stir in grated Parmesan until melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Combine Everything: Add the drained pasta and cooked protein back to the skillet. Toss everything to coat in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if needed to loosen it.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime if desired. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: It will continue to cook in the hot sauce. Al dente is key.
• Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy liquid is your secret weapon for creating a silky, clingy sauce.
• Season in Layers: Season your protein and your sauce separately for the deepest flavor.
• Control the Heat: Start with fewer red pepper flakes; you can always add more. For a milder dish, use a mild Cajun seasoning.

What to Serve With It

• Garlic Bread: Essential for scooping up every last bit of sauce.
• A Crisp Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness.
• Grilled Vegetables: Asparagus or zucchini make a healthy, colorful side.
• A Cooling Drink: Iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp lager.

Storing & Reheating

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency. The microwave can cause separation.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make it vegetarian? Absolutely! Use mushrooms, chickpeas, or extra veggies in place of the meat.
• What if my sauce is too thick? Thin it with a splash of reserved pasta water, broth, or cream.
• Can I use a different pasta? Yes! Rigatoni, fettuccine, or bowties all work well.
• Is it very spicy? The heat is customizable. Adjust the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to your taste.

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Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta

Prep Time: 15 mins	Cook Time: 20 mins	Total Time: 35 mins
Yield: 4 servings	Category: Main Dish, Pasta	Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired

Description
A creamy, spicy Cajun pasta with tender chicken or shrimp and bell peppers in a velvety, bold sauce. Ready in 30 minutes for the ultimate comfort food with a kick.

Ingredients

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb chicken breast or shrimp
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning, divided
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley & lime wedges for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook pasta al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
2. Season protein with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp Cajun seasoning. Sear in oil until cooked. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter with oil. Sauté peppers and garlic for 3-4 mins.
4. Add remaining spices; toast 30 seconds. Pour in cream, simmer gently.
5. Stir in Parmesan until melted.
6. Add pasta and protein back to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding pasta water as needed.
7. Garnish and serve hot.