Louisiana Crawfish Ya-Ya Pasta is a bold and creamy Cajun-inspired dish that combines tender crawfish with perfectly cooked pasta, all tossed in a rich sauce infused with garlic, Cajun spices, and Parmesan. This crowd-pleasing recipe is packed with flavor and just the right amount of heat, making it a go-to for seafood lovers who want to enjoy a taste of Southern comfort. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a special weeknight meal, this dish delivers both simplicity and indulgence.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound crawfish tails (cooked and peeled)
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using), and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crawfish tails and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing them to warm through and absorb the flavors.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and incorporated into the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
This creamy and flavorful Louisiana Crawfish Ya-Ya Pasta is sure to satisfy any craving for Cajun comfort food!
