If you love the spicy flavors of traditional jambalaya and the rich creaminess of classic Alfredo, this Jambalaya Alfredo recipe brings the best of both worlds to your table. With smoked sausage, juicy shrimp, tender chicken, and a luscious Cajun-spiced Alfredo sauce, this dish offers a flavorful, comforting experience in every bite.
Jambalaya Alfredo is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings when you want something both hearty and indulgent. The combination of spices, protein, and pasta delivers a meal that feels both familiar and exciting.
Ingredients
Serves: 4 to 6
Proteins and Pasta
- Eight ounces penne or fettuccine pasta
- One tablespoon olive oil
- One boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- Six ounces andouille or smoked sausage, sliced
- Eight ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Aromatics
- One small onion, chopped
- One small red bell pepper, diced
- One small green bell pepper, diced
- Two cloves garlic, minced
For the Alfredo Sauce
- Two tablespoons unsalted butter
- One and a half cups heavy cream
- One cup grated Parmesan cheese
- One teaspoon Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 40 to 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 to 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving half a cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté the Proteins
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add sausage and cook for another two to three minutes until lightly crisped.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about two minutes. Remove all proteins and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add chopped onion, red and green bell peppers, and garlic.
- Sauté until softened and fragrant, about five minutes.
- Add Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes if using, and stir to coat the vegetables.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- Reduce heat to low and add butter to the skillet.
- Once melted, pour in the heavy cream and stir until combined.
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens.
- Add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust consistency if needed.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat in the sauce.
- Cook for another one to two minutes until everything is heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional Cajun spice, salt, or pepper as needed.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
- For extra heat, drizzle with hot sauce or sprinkle with cayenne.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 610 |
| Protein | 32 grams |
| Total Fat | 36 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 18 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 42 grams |
| Fiber | 3 grams |
| Sugar | 4 grams |
| Sodium | 890 milligrams |
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Recipe Variations and Tips
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace proteins with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or a plant-based sausage.
- Spicier Version: Add more Cajun seasoning or stir in chopped jalapeños during sautéing.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Cook all the components ahead of time and reheat with a splash of cream just before serving.
Jambalaya Alfredo is a bold, flavor-packed pasta dish that brings together the heartiness of Cajun cooking and the creamy indulgence of Alfredo sauce. With smoky sausage, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked shrimp in a luscious cream base, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
Whether you are feeding a crowd or craving a cozy dinner with leftovers for lunch, this recipe is a flavorful way to elevate your weeknight meal rotation.