How to Make the Best Pastalaya Recipe at Home
Learn how to make the best Pastalaya recipe at home with our easy-to-follow guide. A perfect mix of Cajun flavors and hearty pasta awaits you!
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa) sliced into rounds
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb penne pasta (or any other short pasta)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
- 1-2 green onions chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the meats: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage slices and chicken pieces. Cook until the chicken is browned and the sausage is slightly crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, oregano, and bay leaves. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.
- Add broth and pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta, stirring to combine. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Return the meat: Add the cooked sausage and chicken back into the pot, stirring to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing everything to meld together.
- Season to taste: Add salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and chopped green onions. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious pastalaya!
Notes
- Add more heat: For extra spice, increase the cayenne pepper or add some chopped jalapeños.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a bit of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end to create a creamy version of this dish.
- Vegetarian version: Skip the sausage and chicken, and use beans like kidney beans or black beans along with more vegetables for a plant-based option.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
-
Serving Suggestions:
- Perfect with cornbread: Serve with some warm, homemade cornbread for an authentic Cajun experience.
- Great with a side salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the pastalaya.