Creamy Cajun Pasta with Frank’s RedHot Sauce: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Dish

Please share!

If you’re someone who loves the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine and enjoys a little heat in your meals, then this recipe is tailor-made for your taste buds. We’re taking a classic pasta dish and giving it a spicy twist by incorporating Frank’s RedHot Sauce, a beloved hot sauce known for its tangy and fiery kick. Get ready to embark on a flavor-packed journey with our Creamy Cajun Pasta with Frank’s RedHot Sauce recipe.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• ? tsp black pepper
• ? tsp sea salt (add more to taste)
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• Frank’s RedHot Sauce (to taste)
• 8 oz gluten free penne pasta (or your favorite pasta)

Optional Ingredients:

• Rotisserie chicken
• Green onions
• Buffalo chicken wings
• Ranch dressing
• Blue cheese dressing
• Cayenne pepper
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder

Directions:

1. Start with the Pasta:

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it reaches the desired level of doneness. Remember, you want the pasta to be “al dente” – cooked but still slightly firm to the bite. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Create the Creamy Base:

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add 2 tablespoons of minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden.

3. Add the Creamy Element:

Pour in 2 cups of heavy cream slowly, stirring constantly to combine it with the garlic-infused butter. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. This step is crucial for achieving the creamy texture that makes this dish so decadent.

4. Incorporate Parmesan Cheese:

Reduce the heat to low and gradually sprinkle in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese while continuing to stir. Keep stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce has thickened. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

5. Season to Perfection:

Now, it’s time to add flavor. Squeeze in the juice of freshly squeezed lemon for a delightful citrusy zing. Then, season with a pinch of sea salt and ? teaspoon of black pepper for that perfect balance of flavors. Stir everything together until well combined.

6. Embrace the Heat:

Here comes the star of the show – Frank’s RedHot Sauce! The amount you use is entirely up to your preference for spiciness. Start with a few dashes and give the sauce a taste. Adjust the heat level by adding more hot sauce if needed. Remember, you can always add more later, but you can’t take it out, so proceed with caution!

7. Add Optional Ingredients:

Now, if you want to take this dish to the next level, consider adding some optional ingredients for extra flavor and texture:

• Rotisserie Chicken: Shred some rotisserie chicken and fold it into the pasta for a protein boost.
• Green Onions: Slice green onions and sprinkle them over the dish for a fresh and vibrant touch.
• Buffalo Chicken Wings: If you’re a fan of buffalo wings, you can even toss some cooked chicken wings in buffalo sauce and add them to the pasta for a spicy kick.
• Ranch or Blue Cheese Dressing: Drizzle ranch or blue cheese dressing over the top for a creamy finish that complements the spiciness of the sauce.

8. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Gently fold the cooked penne pasta into the creamy sauce in the skillet. Ensure that the pasta is evenly coated with the Cajun-flavored cream. This is where the magic happens as the pasta absorbs all those delicious flavors.

9. Heat Through:

Allow the pasta and sauce to heat together over low heat for a few minutes. This ensures that the pasta gets infused with the creamy goodness and the flavors meld together beautifully.

10. Serve and Garnish:

Once everything is heated through and well-mingled, it’s time to serve your Creamy Cajun Pasta with Frank’s RedHot Sauce. Transfer it to serving plates or bowls and garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese, green onions, or any other optional toppings you desire.

Tips and Variations:

1. Customize the Heat: Frank’s RedHot Sauce offers varying levels of heat, so adjust the amount to suit your preference. If you’re a true spice enthusiast, you can even add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
2. Protein Options: Feel free to experiment with different proteins. Besides rotisserie chicken or buffalo wings, you can also use boneless chicken breasts or shrimp for a seafood twist.
3. Creamy Texture: If you prefer an even creamier sauce, consider adding a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese or sour cream. This will make the sauce extra rich and velvety.
4. Leftover Chicken: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken, whether it’s from a previous meal or some leftover buffalo chicken.
5. Make It an Instant Pot Recipe: To save time, you can adapt this recipe for your Instant Pot. Sauté the garlic and butter using the sauté function, add the pasta, cream, and spices, then cook under pressure for a few minutes.
6. Nutritional Value: For those interested in the nutritional information of this dish, it’s worth noting that the cream and cheese contribute to its richness. However, it’s a flavorful indulgence perfect for special occasions or as an occasional treat.

This Creamy Cajun Pasta with Frank’s RedHot Sauce is a slam dunk in the flavor department. With its spicy kick, creamy texture, and the option to customize it to your liking, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a beloved dish in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re preparing it for game days, busy weeknights, or just as a treat for your taste buds, this pasta dish is a complete meal that delivers on taste and satisfaction. Enjoy this delicious fusion of Cajun and buffalo flavors, and savor every bite of this cheesy, spicy, and creamy masterpiece.

More yummy pasta recipes to try:

Gluten Free Crockpot Beef Stroganoff

Gluten Free Stuffed Manicotti

Creamy Pesto with Italian Sausage