Velvety Pastalaya

Velvety Pastalaya is a delightful twist on the classic Cajun jambalaya, swapping out rice for pasta. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering rich flavors and satisfying textures that will keep everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is simple to follow and results in a comforting meal that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Filling: Velvety Pastalaya combines pasta with savory meats and vegetables, making it a complete meal.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and great for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins for a unique twist on this classic dish.
• Perfect for Sharing: This recipe yields generous portions, making it ideal for family gatherings or potluck events.
• Rich Flavors: The combination of spices and creamy soups adds depth to each bite, creating an unforgettable taste experience.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Velvety Pastalaya, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures your cooking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch Oven or Cast Iron Pot
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula
• Knife and Cutting Board
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch Oven or Cast Iron Pot: Ideal for even cooking and can go from stovetop to oven seamlessly.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring even mixing of ingredients.

Ingredients

Pastalaya is a Cajun recipe, originating from the traditional Jambalaya, replacing the rice with Pasta. This Pastalaya recipe is a hearty comfort food that will have you reaching for more!

For the Base

• 3 Slices Thick Cut Turkey Bacon (chopped)
• 1 Each Yellow Onion (chopped, large)
• 1 Each Green Bell Pepper (chopped)
• 2 Ribs Celery (chopped)
• 3 Cloves Garlic (minced)

Proteins

• 1 Cup Beef Steak (steak or roast cut into 1 cubes)
• 2 Each Chicken Thighs (skinless, boneless, cut into 1 cubes)
• 1 Each Chicken Breast (cut into 1 cubes)
• 1 Pound Smoked Sausage (sliced)

Flavor Enhancers

• 1 (10 Ounce) Can Diced Tomatoes and Chilies
• 3 Sprigs Fresh Thyme
• 1 teaspoon Creole Seasoning (or Cajun Seasoning)

Liquids and Creaminess

• 1 Cup Water
• 1-1/2 Cups Chicken Broth
• 1 Tablespoon Browning Sauce
• 1 (10 Ounce) Can Cream of Chicken Soup
• 1 (10 Ounce) Can Cream of Mushroom Soup

Pasta

• 1 Pound Pasta (Farfalle (bowtie) or Penne)

Garnish

• 3 Each Green Onions (chopped)

How to Make Velvety Pastalaya

Step 1: Cook the Base

Heat a large Dutch Oven on medium-high heat. Add the chopped Turkey Bacon, onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until soft and the Turkey Bacon is browned.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 3 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Brown Proteins

Brown the cubed beef steak and sliced smoked sausage in the pot. This should take about 20-25 minutes until slightly caramelized.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in cubed chicken thighs, chicken breast, diced tomatoes with chilies, Creole seasoning, and fresh thyme. Continue cooking over medium-high heat for another 15-20 minutes. Preheat your oven to 300°F during this step.

Step 5: Add Liquids

Pour in the water, chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, and browning sauce. Let it simmer for another 20 minutes.

Step 6: Incorporate Pasta

Add dry pasta into the mixture. Stir well and bring to a rolling boil.

Step 7: Cook in Oven

Turn off the heat once boiling. Press noodles down so they are mostly submerged in liquid. Cover with a lid and place in preheated oven for one hour.

Step 8: Rest Before Serving

After one hour in the oven, remove it but do not open immediately. Allow it to sit covered for an additional 10 minutes.

Step 9: Serve

After resting time is up, remove the lid and stir from the bottom of the pot. Add chopped green onions as garnish before serving hot.

Enjoy your delicious Velvety Pastalaya!

How to Serve Velvety Pastalaya

Serving Velvety Pastalaya is all about enhancing its rich flavors and creating a memorable dining experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement your dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves – A few leaves can add an aromatic touch that elevates the dish.

With Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar – Add a handful of shredded cheddar cheese for extra creaminess.
• Parmesan – Grated Parmesan offers a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the pasta.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve warm garlic bread for a crunchy counterpart that’s perfect for scooping.
• Dinner Rolls – Soft dinner rolls can help soak up the delicious sauce.

With a Salad

• Garden Salad – A light garden salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the Pastalaya.
• Caesar Salad – The crispness of romaine and creamy dressing complements the dish wonderfully.

How to Perfect Velvety Pastalaya

Perfecting your Velvety Pastalaya ensures every bite is delicious. Keep these tips in mind for optimal results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor significantly.
• Don’t Rush Cooking Times – Allow each ingredient to cook fully; this builds complex flavors.
• Stir Gently – When mixing, stir delicately to avoid breaking the pasta while ensuring even coating with sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go; feel free to add more seasoning based on personal preference.
• Rest Before Serving – Letting it sit after cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Velvety Pastalaya

Pairing side dishes with Velvety Pastalaya can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Green Beans – Sautéed green beans tossed with garlic provide a crunchy texture.
2. Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and a tangy contrast to the savory dish.
3. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements the spices in Pastalaya while adding sweetness.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables enhance nutrition and flavor balance.
5. Crispy Potato Wedges – These provide a hearty side that pairs well with creamy sauces.
6. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad offers a sweet and refreshing finish after the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Velvety Pastalaya, many home cooks make errors that can impact the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Sautéing Step: Not cooking the vegetables and turkey bacon long enough can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always ensure they are soft and aromatic before adding other ingredients.
• Overcooking the Meat: Cooking the beef steak or chicken for too long can make them tough. Aim for just enough time to brown them without drying them out.
• Ignoring Liquid Ratios: Using too much or too little broth or water can result in a pastalaya that’s either soupy or dry. Stick to the recommended measurements for best results.
• Not Pressing Down the Pasta: Failing to press the pasta into the liquid can leave some noodles undercooked. Ensure they’re mostly submerged before covering and baking.
• Opening the Pot Too Soon: Removing the lid immediately after baking lets steam escape, affecting texture. Wait at least 10 minutes before stirring.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Velvety Pastalaya

• Freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months.

Reheating Velvety Pastalaya

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Velvety Pastalaya that might help you as you prepare this delicious dish.

Can I customize Velvety Pastalaya?

Absolutely! You can add various vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or substitute different proteins such as shrimp or tofu.

How do I make Velvety Pastalaya vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, replace meats with hearty vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What type of pasta works best for Velvety Pastalaya?

Farfalle (bowtie) or penne are great options because they hold sauce well. You can also experiment with other shapes!

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Velvety Pastalaya is perfect for meal prep. Just store it properly and reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Velvety Pastalaya is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to please any crowd. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients while still delivering that comforting Cajun essence. Don’t hesitate to try new additions; whether it’s extra veggies or different proteins, this recipe is all about making it your own!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Velvety Pastalaya

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Velvety Pastalaya, a delightful twist on traditional jambalaya that replaces rice with pasta for an unforgettable dining experience. This hearty dish is packed with tender chicken, beef, and a medley of fresh vegetables, all simmered together in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, Velvety Pastalaya offers robust flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The recipe is straightforward enough for beginners while still impressing seasoned chefs, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 slices thick cut turkey bacon (chopped)
• 1 large yellow onion (chopped)
• 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
• 2 ribs celery (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 cup beef steak (cut into 1" cubes)
• 2 skinless boneless chicken thighs (cut into 1" cubes)
• 1 chicken breast (cut into 1" cubes)
• 1 can diced tomatoes with chilies
• Fresh thyme
• 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
• 1 cup water
• 1.5 cups chicken broth
• Browning sauce
• Canned cream of chicken soup
• Canned cream of mushroom soup
• 1 pound pasta (farfalle or penne)
• Green onions (for garnish)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Cook turkey bacon, onion, bell pepper, and celery until soft.
2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional three minutes.
3. Add the cubed beef steak and sliced smoked sausage; brown for about 20-25 minutes.
4. Mix in chicken thighs, chicken breast, diced tomatoes, Creole seasoning, and thyme. Cook for another 15-20 minutes.
5. Add water, broth, soups, and browning sauce; let simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Incorporate pasta into the mixture and bring to a boil.
7. Remove from heat, press noodles down into liquid, cover, and bake in an oven preheated to 300°F for one hour.
8. Allow to sit covered for an additional ten minutes before serving.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg