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stalekracker pastalaya recipe

Stalekracker Pastalaya Recipe

Stalekracker Pastalaya is a Cajun-inspired dish that combines the bold flavors of jambalaya with pasta instead of rice. This one-pot meal is packed with smoked sausage, chicken, and aromatic vegetables, all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth infused with Cajun spices. It’s a hearty and delicious dish perfect for gatherings or a comforting family dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
Calories: 480
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Main Ingredients
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 lb smoked sausage sliced
  • 1 lb chicken breast cubed
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 1 bell pepper chopped
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce optional
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp salt adjust as needed
  • 8 oz penne or rotini pasta
  • Garnish
  • 2 green onions chopped
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
  • Parmesan cheese optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Knife

Method
 

Heat the Oil
  1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
Cook the Sausage and Chicken
  1. Add the smoked sausage and cook until browned (about 5 minutes).
  2. Remove the sausage and set it aside.
  3. Add the cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
  1. In the same pan, add the onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Combine Ingredients
  1. Return the sausage and chicken to the skillet.
  2. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir to combine.
Simmer the Sauce
  1. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cook the Pasta
  1. Add the pasta to the skillet and stir well.
  2. Cover and let it cook on low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Check and Adjust
  1. Once the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, remove from heat.
  2. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
Garnish and Serve
  1. Sprinkle with chopped green onions, fresh parsley, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
  2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • You can adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the Cajun seasoning and hot sauce.
  • For extra smokiness, add a dash of liquid smoke.
  • If the pasta absorbs too much liquid, add a little more broth before serving.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
stalekracker pastalaya recipe