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Pastalaya Stalekracker Recipe
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Pastalaya Stalekracker Recipe

If you love hearty, comforting meals with a bit of a kick, then you're in for a treat with the Pastalaya Stalekracker Recipe. This dish is a delicious blend of flavors, mixing pasta with the bold and savory elements of jambalaya.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Cajun, Creole-inspired
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Smoked Sausage = 01 lb Andouille or your favorite Cajun-style sausage
  • Boneless = 2-3 skinless chicken breasts (diced)
  • Onion = 01 large chopped
  • Bell Pepper = 01 chopped
  • Garlic = 2-3 cloves minced
  • Cajun Seasoning = 02 tablespoons adjust based on your spice preference
  • Chicken = 04 cups broth
  • Tomatoes = 01 10 oz can (diced)
  • Short Pasta = 02 cups penne (rotini) or (your choice)
  • Olive Oil = 02 tablespoons
  • Salt and Pepper to taste
  • Green Onions or Parsley chopped (for garnish) (Optional)

Equipment

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

Method
 

  1. Step by Step Instructions:
Step 01: Cook the Sausage
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot.
  2. Brown the sliced sausage on both sides.
  3. Remove and set aside.
Step 02: Cook the Chicken
  1. In the same pot, add diced chicken.
  2. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Cook until browned and fully done.
  4. Set aside with the sausage.
Step 03: Sauté the Vegetables
  1. Add onions, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot.
  2. Cook until soft and the onion is clear, about five minutes.
Step 04: Combine Ingredients
  1. Add Cajun seasoning, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
  2. Stir well, scraping the browned bits from the pot.
Step 05: Simmer
  1. Bring everything to a boil.
  2. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to blend flavors.
Step 06: Add the Pasta
  1. Stir in the pasta and return sausage and chicken.
  2. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the pasta is tender.
Step 07: Final Touch
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning with more Cajun spice or salt.
  2. Let the dish sit for a few minutes to thicken.
Step 08: Garnish and Serve
  1. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley, if desired.
  2. Serve hot and enjoy!
Servings and Preparation Times
  1. Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  2. Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
  3. Total Time: 45-50 minutes
  4. Serves: This Pastalaya Stalekracker recipe serves 6-8 people, making it perfect for a family meal or a gathering.

Notes

  • Use the Right Sausage: A good, smoked sausage like Andouille or a spicy Cajun sausage will bring out the best flavors in this dish. The smoky, spicy taste is key to achieving that authentic Cajun flavor.
  • Cook the Pasta Just Right: Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to absorb the sauce as it sits. Cook it al dente to ensure it doesn’t become too soft.
  • Season to Taste: Cajun seasoning is essential, but everyone’s spice tolerance is different. Start with a smaller amount and add more as needed to suit your taste. You can always add more heat, but you can’t take it out!
  • Let It Rest: After cooking, let the Pastalaya sit for a few minutes. This allows the pasta to absorb the flavors and thicken the sauce a bit, making it even more delicious.
  • Make It Your Own: Feel free to add shrimp, bell peppers, or even a splash of hot sauce if you want to spice things up a bit more.