Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta

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This Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta blends creamy comfort with a lively Cajun kick for weeknight dinners that feel special. Tender chicken or juicy shrimp meet roasted bell peppers and a silky Parmesan cream sauce tossed with penne. If you love bold pasta dishes, you might also enjoy Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta for another cozy option. This recipe moves quickly and rewards simple techniques for big flavor.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This dish is perfect when you want something impressive without a lot of fuss. The spice mix gives a smoky warmth that plays well with the rich cream and sharp Parmesan. You can swap protein easily so it works whether you prefer chicken or seafood. It is colorful on the plate thanks to bright red and green bell peppers which also add a sweet crunch. Leftovers reheat beautifully so it can stretch through the week. If you like pairing this with lighter sides try a simple green salad or the flavors in Easy Spinach Mushroom Pasta for inspiration.

Flavor and Texture

The sauce is luxuriously smooth from the heavy cream and Parmesan while the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika bring a layered heat. Red pepper flakes and a pinch of cayenne let you control the fire so every bite can be as mild or as bold as you prefer. Penne holds the sauce in its tubes so each forkful is coated and satisfying. Searing the protein creates a caramelized edge that contrasts with the soft pasta and tender peppers. A squeeze of lime at the end brightens the whole plate and makes the flavors pop.

Ingredients

– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb chicken breast or shrimp (sliced or peeled/deveined)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
– ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– 1 ½ cups heavy cream
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
– Juice of ½ lime
– ½ cup reserved pasta water

Step by Step Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne until just shy of package timing so it is al dente then reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain the pasta.
2. Season chicken or shrimp with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning then heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet and sear the protein until cooked through then remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet add remaining olive oil and butter then sauté sliced bell peppers and minced garlic for three to four minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes and toast the spices for about thirty seconds then pour in the heavy cream and simmer gently.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan until the sauce turns creamy then add cooked pasta and the seared chicken or shrimp and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
6. Taste and adjust salt and pepper then garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro and a squeeze of lime and serve hot.

Tips for Best Results

Brown the protein well to add depth to the dish and avoid overcrowding the pan so you get a nice sear. Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting quality and flavor. Keep a little pasta water handy to loosen the sauce without thinning it too much. Adjust red pepper flakes and cayenne gradually so you control the heat level. Finish with lime juice and fresh herbs just before serving for a lively lift.

Storage and Make Ahead

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for one to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to revive the sauce. You can cook the pasta and protein ahead and combine with the sauce just before serving for easier weeknight assembly. Freeze only if you accept small changes in texture, best to freeze the sauce separately.

Final Thought

This Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta is a fast route to dinner that feels gourmet yet humble. It balances rich cream and sharp cheese with lively Cajun spices and bright lime. Whether you make it for a weeknight or to impress friends it delivers bold flavor with minimal fuss.