Name: Awesome Rattlesnake Pasta in 1 Hour
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb penne pasta; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 tbsp olive oil, divided; 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning; 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); 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; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Jump to Recipe

Rattlesnake Pasta has a way of bringing everyone to the table, and it all started for me on a chilly evening when I needed something that was both comforting and exciting. I remember my first attempt at making this dish, nervous about getting the spice just right. The aroma of sautéed peppers and garlic filled my kitchen, hinting at the deliciousness to come. When I finally took that first bite of the creamy, cheesy sauce coating tender pasta and chicken, I knew I’d found a winner. This recipe for Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta is surprisingly simple, and I can’t wait to show you exactly how to make Rattlesnake Pasta that tastes like it came straight from a fancy restaurant. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Rattlesnake Pasta

An explosion of flavor: It’s perfectly seasoned, creamy, and a little spicy, making it incredibly satisfying.
Quick and easy prep: You can have this delicious meal on the table in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
Budget-friendly: Uses common ingredients that won’t break the bank, offering great value.
Family-approved: Even picky eaters will love this comforting and cheesy pasta dish.
Versatile: Easily adaptable to your spice preference, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Restaurant-quality at home: Enjoy a truly decadent and Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta experience without the fancy price tag.
Healthy-ish: Packed with protein from chicken and veggies, it’s a more wholesome way to enjoy pasta.
A delightful Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta that’s both comforting and exciting.

Rattlesnake Pasta Ingredients

Gathering the right Rattlesnake Pasta ingredients is the first step to making this amazing dish. You’ll need 1 lb penne pasta, cooked until perfectly al dente. For the protein, grab 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces. We’ll use 2 tbsp olive oil for sautéing, divided. Seasoning is key, so have 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning ready. For that signature Southwestern kick, we need 1 red bell pepper, sliced, 1 green bell pepper, sliced, 1/2 red onion, sliced, 3 cloves garlic, minced, and 2-3 jalapeño peppers, sliced (remember to remove seeds if you prefer less heat). The creamy sauce starts with 4 tbsp butter and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour to make a roux. Then, 2 cups milk or half-and-half will create that luxurious texture. Don’t forget 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese for cheesiness, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper for seasoning. Finally, 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley adds a fresh finish.

How to Make Rattlesnake Pasta

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, cook the penne pasta in a large pot of generously salted boiling water according to package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about a cup of the starchy pasta water, and set it aside.
Step 2: Season the chicken pieces evenly with the 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until it’s nicely browned on all sides and cooked through, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate. This is the start of your delicious Chicken Rattlesnake Pasta!
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil. Toss in the sliced bell peppers, red onion, minced garlic, and sliced jalapeños. Sauté these colorful vegetables until they become tender-crisp, about 5 minutes. You’ll love the fragrant aroma filling your kitchen! Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside with the chicken.

Step 4: Melt the 4 tbsp butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Whisk in the 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the 2 cups milk or half-and-half until the sauce is smooth and there are no lumps. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken beautifully. Stir in the 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper until the cheese is melted and the sauce is wonderfully creamy. This is the heart of your Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta!
Step 5: Add the cooked pasta, browned chicken, and sautéed vegetables back into the skillet with the luscious sauce. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are thoroughly coated in the rich, cheesy sauce. If the sauce seems a bit too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. This step makes it so easy to assemble your Easy Rattlesnake Pasta.
Step 6: Serve your amazing Rattlesnake Pasta hot, garnished generously with the 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Pro Tips for the Best Rattlesnake Pasta

Want to elevate your Rattlesnake Pasta game? I’ve picked up a few tricks that make a huge difference!

Always cook your pasta to al dente. It will continue to cook slightly in the hot sauce, so you don’t want it mushy.
Don’t skip the reserved pasta water! It’s a secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency if it gets too thick.
For a deeper flavor, consider toasting your spices briefly before adding them to the chicken.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Sometimes a little more salt or Cajun seasoning is all it needs.

Awesome Rattlesnake Pasta in 1 Hour - Rattlesnake Pasta - additional detail

What’s the secret to perfect Rattlesnake Pasta?

The key to an Authentic Rattlesnake Pasta experience lies in building layers of flavor. Sautéing the vegetables properly and creating a smooth, well-seasoned roux for the sauce are crucial. Don’t overcook the pasta, and remember that quality ingredients make all the difference. For more cooking tips, check out these helpful kitchen hacks.

Can I make Rattlesnake Pasta ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! You can prepare most of the components separately ahead of time. Cook the pasta, sauté the chicken and veggies, and make the sauce. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to serve, combine everything and gently reheat, adding a splash of milk or pasta water if needed. It’s great for a quick Rattlesnake Pasta casserole later!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta?

A common pitfall is overcooking the pasta, leading to a mushy dish. Ensure your roux is cooked for at least a minute to avoid a raw flour taste. Also, don’t be afraid to adjust the jalapeño level to control the heat – this makes your Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta perfect for your palate. Learn more about proper cooking techniques.

Best Ways to Serve Rattlesnake Pasta

This flavorful Rattlesnake Pasta dish is hearty enough to be a standalone meal, but I love pairing it with simple sides to complement its rich flavors. For a truly delightful Southwestern Rattlesnake Pasta experience, I often serve it alongside a crisp, fresh green salad with a lime vinaigrette. This adds a bright, acidic contrast that cuts through the creaminess beautifully. Another favorite is some crusty garlic bread – perfect for soaking up any extra sauce! If you’re looking for something a little lighter, steamed broccoli or asparagus also works wonderfully. It’s all about balancing those bold flavors. You might also enjoy this simple side salad recipe.

Nutrition Facts for Rattlesnake Pasta

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving for this delicious Rattlesnake Pasta dish. This recipe is designed to be a satisfying main course, offering a good balance of macronutrients.

Calories: 550
Fat: 27g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 51g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 720mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the leanness of the chicken and the type of milk or cream you choose. For more information on healthy eating, consult resources like the MyPlate initiative.

How to Store and Reheat Rattlesnake Pasta

Properly storing and reheating your delicious Rattlesnake Pasta dish ensures you can enjoy its amazing flavor later. First, let the pasta cool down at room temperature for about an hour. Then, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers. This helps maintain freshness and prevent any unwanted odors from transferring. You can keep your leftover Rattlesnake Pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to store it for longer, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months! Just make sure it’s well-sealed.

When you’re ready to reheat, you have a couple of great options. For a quick fix, you can microwave individual portions. Stir in a splash of milk or water before heating to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat it gently on the stovetop in a skillet over low to medium heat, again adding a little liquid to revive the creamy sauce. This method is perfect for getting that fresh-from-the-stove texture back! For more storage tips, see food storage guidelines.

Variations of Rattlesnake Pasta You Can Try

This Rattlesnake Pasta recipe is fantastic as is, but it’s also super adaptable! I love experimenting to see what new flavors I can bring to the table. If you’re looking for a smoky depth, try making a Smoked Rattlesnake Pasta by adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the sauce or even using smoked chicken. For a lighter, yet still indulgent option, consider a Creamy chicken pasta recipe variation by using Greek yogurt or a lighter milk alternative in the sauce. You could also make it vegetarian by swapping the chicken for sautéed mushrooms and extra bell peppers. Another fun twist is adding sundried tomatoes for a burst of tangy sweetness!

Frequently Asked Questions About Rattlesnake Pasta

What is Rattlesnake Pasta?

Rattlesnake Pasta is a rich, creamy, and often spicy pasta dish featuring chicken, bell peppers, and a decadent cheese sauce. It’s known for its bold flavors, reminiscent of Southwestern or Cajun cuisine, making it a satisfying and flavorful main course that’s surprisingly easy to whip up at home.

What are the best ingredients for Rattlesnake Pasta?

To make the Best Rattlesnake Pasta, focus on quality. Fresh chicken breast, vibrant bell peppers, plenty of garlic, and good Parmesan cheese are essential. Don’t skimp on the Cajun seasoning, and be sure to use pasta cooked al dente so it holds up in the sauce. Fresh parsley adds a lovely finishing touch. For ingredient inspiration, check out these ingredient spotlights.

Can I make this Rattlesnake Pasta recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! To create a delicious vegetarian version of this Rattlesnake Pasta, simply omit the chicken and double up on the vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even some hearty chickpeas would be fantastic additions to the creamy sauce. It’s a versatile dish that caters to different dietary preferences.

How do I adjust the spice level in Rattlesnake Pasta?

Controlling the heat is key to enjoying your Rattlesnake Pasta! For a milder dish, remove all the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño peppers before slicing. You can also reduce the amount of jalapeños or omit them entirely. If you love heat, add more jalapeños or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick.