Rattlesnake Pasta

Rattlesnake pasta is an exciting dish that brings together creamy, spicy flavors for a delightful meal. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe will impress your guests with its rich taste and beautiful presentation. The combination of penne pasta with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables makes it a standout option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavors: Rattlesnake pasta combines creamy cheese sauce with the heat of jalapeños for a unique taste experience.
• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 50 minutes, you can whip up this dish even on busy weeknights.
• Customizable Heat: You control the spice level by adjusting the amount of jalapeños to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: This creamy pasta dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it ideal for family meals.
• Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the peppers and fresh parsley make this dish visually appealing for dinner parties.

Tools and Preparation

To create your delicious rattlesnake pasta, gather your tools and prepare your ingredients. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board and knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the penne pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Large skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and vegetables, allowing them to cook properly without steaming.
• Whisk: Helps blend the flour into the butter smoothly, preventing lumps in your sauce.

Ingredients

Rattlesnake pasta is a restaurant-worthy dish you can make at home! Penne is coated in a creamy, spicy, cheesy sauce you’ll flip for.

For the Pasta

• 1 lb penne pasta

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
• 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning

For the Vegetables

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1/2 red onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 jalapeño peppers, sliced (remove seeds for less heat)

For the Sauce

• 4 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk or half-and-half
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For Garnish

• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Rattlesnake Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a plate.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet. Add the bell peppers, onion, garlic, and jalapeños. Sauté until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.

Step 5: Thicken Sauce

Bring sauce to a simmer and cook until it starts to thicken, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper until melted and smooth.

Step 6: Combine All Ingredients

Add cooked pasta, chicken, and sautéed vegetables to skillet with sauce. Toss gently until everything is well coated.

Step 7: Serve

Serve rattlesnake pasta hot, garnished with chopped parsley. Enjoy the creamy, spicy flavors!

How to Serve Rattlesnake Pasta

Rattlesnake pasta is a versatile dish that can be paired with various accompaniments to enhance its flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Toasted slices of garlic bread make a delightful pairing, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce of the pasta.

Add a Side Salad

• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the rattlesnake pasta and adds a refreshing crunch.

Serve with Grilled Vegetables

• Grilled vegetables such as zucchini or asparagus can add depth and texture to your meal, balancing the creamy sauce.

Garnish with Extra Cheese

• Sprinkling extra grated Parmesan on top right before serving adds an extra layer of flavor and makes for an appealing presentation.

Offer Hot Sauce on the Side

• For those who want an extra kick, provide a selection of hot sauces to drizzle over individual servings of rattlesnake pasta.

Pair with a Glass of White Wine

• A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the spices in the dish while enhancing the overall dining experience.

How to Perfect Rattlesnake Pasta

Perfecting rattlesnake pasta involves attention to detail in both flavor and texture. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to their dried counterparts.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Depending on your heat preference, you can modify the number of jalapeños or even add crushed red pepper flakes for more spice.

• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Cooking pasta just until al dente ensures it maintains its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce.

• Stir Constantly While Adding Milk: This prevents lumps from forming in your sauce, resulting in a smooth, creamy texture.

• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.

• Experiment with Cheese Varieties: While Parmesan is traditional, mixing in other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar can create unique flavor combinations.

Best Side Dishes for Rattlesnake Pasta

To round out your meal featuring rattlesnake pasta, consider these delicious side dishes that complement its bold flavors.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce combined with Caesar dressing and croutons offers a classic pairing.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned and roasted Brussels sprouts provide a savory contrast to the creamy pasta.
3. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a light and refreshing appetizer.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob adds sweetness that balances well against spicy notes in the pasta.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats filled with cheese and herbs make for an excellent finger food option alongside your main dish.
6. Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad brings a sweet element that contrasts beautifully with rich flavors of rattlesnake pasta.
7. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are hearty sides that pair wonderfully with this dish’s robust profile.
8. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, olives, and cheeses provides variety and pairs excellently as starters before diving into the main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing rattlesnake pasta, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the penne too long can lead to mushy pasta. Remember, it should be al dente for the best texture.
• Skipping the Cajun Seasoning: This dish is all about flavor. Don’t forget to season your chicken properly to enhance the overall taste.
• Not Sautéing Vegetables Enough: Ensure the bell peppers, onions, and jalapeños are tender-crisp for that perfect bite. Don’t rush this step!
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: The cheese is key in this creamy sauce. Opt for fresh grated Parmesan for maximum flavor and creaminess.
• Neglecting to Toss Ingredients Well: Make sure everything is well coated in the sauce before serving. It ensures every bite is delicious.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture build-up.

Freezing Rattlesnake Pasta

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
• Portion into servings for easy reheating later.

Reheating Rattlesnake Pasta

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish with a splash of milk and cover with foil; heat for about 25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, adding a little milk if needed. Cover and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add milk as necessary to keep it creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about rattlesnake pasta:

What makes Rattlesnake Pasta spicy?

The spiciness comes from jalapeño peppers and Cajun seasoning used during cooking. Adjust these ingredients to suit your heat preference.

Can I customize Rattlesnake Pasta?

Absolutely! You can add other proteins like shrimp or sausage, or include more vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.

How do I make Rattlesnake Pasta vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, substitute chicken with plant-based protein or simply increase the amount of vegetables used.

What should I serve with Rattlesnake Pasta?

This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread to balance the rich flavors.

Final Thoughts

Rattlesnake pasta is an incredible dish that combines creamy, spicy flavors into a delightful meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it easily based on your preferences. Whether you stick closely to the recipe or experiment with different ingredients, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike!

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Rattlesnake Pasta

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• Author: Saphira
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Rattlesnake pasta is a vibrant blend of creamy and spicy flavors that will elevate your weeknight dinners or impress guests at casual gatherings. This delightful dish features penne pasta tossed with tender Cajun-seasoned chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a rich cheese sauce infused with jalapeños for an extra kick.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 green bell pepper
• ½ red onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 2–3 jalapeños
• 4 tbsp butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk or half-and-half
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the penne in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat, cook chicken until browned (5-7 minutes). Transfer to a plate.
3. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil and sauté sliced bell peppers, onion, garlic, and jalapeños for about 5 minutes.
4. Melt butter in the skillet; whisk in flour for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk, stirring until smooth; bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted; combine with pasta, chicken, and sautéed vegetables. Toss to coat well.
6. Serve hot garnished with parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 65g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 90mg