Ingredients
- Pasta (Fettuccine or penne)
- Heavy cream or half-and-half
- Sharp Parmesan cheese
- Fresh garlic
- Diced onion
- Cajun seasoning
- Chicken or shrimp
- Sliced bell peppers
- Fresh spinach
- Butter
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook it until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt a generous pat of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onion, stirring until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
- Add Protein: If using chicken or shrimp, add it to the skillet, seasoning with Cajun spices. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Incorporate Vegetables: Toss in sliced bell peppers and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts and the peppers soften, roughly another 3-4 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: Lower the heat and pour in your cream, stirring to create a luscious base. Add Parmesan cheese and a splash of reserved pasta water to help bind the ingredients. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Combine: Add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is beautifully coated with the sauce. If it’s too thick, add more pasta water to loosen it up.
- Serve: Garnish with additional cheese and fresh herbs. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper elevates the dish wonderfully.
Notes
Watch the pasta carefully while cooking to ensure it remains al dente. Adjust seasoning as necessary and remember to reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian