Name: Pastalaya Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp vegetable oil; ½ lb halal smoked sausage (beef or chicken); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 10 oz bag frozen seasoning mix (onion, bell pepper, celery); 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes; ½ Tbsp Creole seasoning (alcohol-free, halal); ½ tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp smoked paprika; ¼ tsp dried thyme; Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste); 2 cups halal chicken broth; 1 cup water; 1 lb penne pasta (uncooked); 2 Tbsp half-and-half or cream; ½ bunch fresh parsley (chopped); ½ bunch green onions (sliced)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

If you are looking for a dinner that is bold, spicy, and incredibly satisfying, you need to try the pastalaya recipe. This dish is a massive favorite in the southern United States, specifically Louisiana, where big flavors and hearty portions are a way of life. While traditional Cajun cooking often uses ingredients that aren’t suitable for everyone, we have created a version that is 100% halal-friendly and simple enough for any home cook.

In this guide, you will learn how to make a restaurant-quality pastalaya in just one pot. This means less cleanup and more time enjoying a meal that combines savory meats, aromatic vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, spiced sauce. Whether you are cooking for a large family gathering or just want a flavorful weeknight meal, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

What Is Pastalaya?

In simple English, pastalaya is a fun and delicious twist on the classic Louisiana dish called jambalaya. Traditionally, jambalaya is a mix of meat, vegetables, and rice cooked together in one pot. In a pastalaya recipe, we simply replace the rice with pasta!

The origin of this dish comes from the desire to have those same deep Cajun flavors but with a different texture. Pasta (usually penne or rotini) is excellent at soaking up the savory broth and spices, making every bite burst with flavor. It is a hearty, “stick-to-your-ribs” kind of meal that feels like a celebration in a bowl. By using pasta instead of rice, the dish becomes a bit more modern and is often preferred by children and those who love Italian-American fusion cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Pastalaya Recipe

There are so many reasons why this pastalaya recipe will become a staple in your kitchen:

One-Pot Meal: You cook everything, including the pasta, in a single pot. This saves you from washing multiple pans and keeps the kitchen tidy.
Budget-Friendly: The ingredients are simple pantry staples and affordable meats, making it an excellent choice for feeding a large family on a budget.
Easy to Customize: You can easily swap the meats or add more vegetables based on what you have in your fridge.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights: Once the chopping is done, the pot does most of the work. You can have a gourmet-style dinner ready in about 40 minutes.
Mild or Spicy: You have total control over the heat! You can keep it mild for kids or add an extra kick for spice lovers.

Ingredients for Pastalaya Recipe: One-Pot Cajun Pasta Dish

To get the best flavor, use fresh aromatics and high-quality halal meats. All ingredients listed here are 100% halal and safe.

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity	Note
Vegetable Oil	1 Tbsp	For browning the meat.
Halal Smoked Sausage	1/2 lb	Use beef or chicken (Andouille-style if possible).
Garlic	2 cloves	Freshly minced for the best aroma.
Frozen Seasoning Mix	10 oz bag	A mix of onions, bell peppers, and celery.
Diced Tomatoes	15 oz can	Provides moisture and acidity.
Creole Seasoning	1/2 Tbsp	Check for halal/alcohol-free ingredients.
Dried Oregano & Thyme	1/2 tsp / 1/4 tsp	Essential herbal notes.
Smoked Paprika	1/2 tsp	For color and a deep, smoky depth.
Penne Pasta	1 lb	Uncooked; the pasta will cook in the sauce.
Halal Chicken Broth	2 cups	Low-sodium and certified halal.
Water	1 cup	To ensure the pasta has enough liquid to cook.
Half-and-Half or Cream	2 Tbsp	For a slight creamy finish.
Green Onions & Parsley	1/2 bunch each	Freshly sliced/chopped for garnish.

Optional Ingredients (For Extra Flair)

Red Chili Flakes: A pinch for extra heat.
Halal Chicken Breast: 1/2 lb, cubed and browned with the sausage.
Fresh Bell Peppers: Use red and yellow for extra color.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle on top for a salty, cheesy finish.

Kitchen Tools Needed

To ensure your pastalaya recipe turns out perfectly, gather these basic tools:

Large Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven: You need a heavy-bottomed pot that is large enough to hold all the liquid and the pasta.
Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping your sausage and fresh herbs.
Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring and scraping the flavorful bits off the bottom of the pot.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate seasoning and liquid ratios.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these clear, simple steps to master this one-pot wonder.

Step-by-Step Pastalaya Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Halal Sausage

Heat the vegetable oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced halal smoked sausage. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is nicely browned on both sides. This browning adds a huge amount of flavor to the entire dish.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Stir in the minced garlic and the bag of frozen seasoning mix (onion, peppers, celery). Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the onions are translucent.

Step 3: Season the Base

Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), Creole seasoning, dried oregano, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Pasta

Pour in the 2 cups of halal chicken broth and 1 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the uncooked 1 lb of penne pasta. Use your spoon to push the pasta down so it is mostly covered by the liquid.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer for about 12 to 15 minutes. Stir every few minutes to make sure the pasta doesn’t stick to the bottom. The pasta is done when it is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 6: The Creamy Finish

Turn off the heat. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of cream or half-and-half. Add the fresh chopped parsley and green onions. Toss everything gently one last time. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken perfectly.

Pro Tips for the Best Pastalaya

Smoked Paprika is Key: Do not skip the smoked paprika! It gives the dish that authentic “cooked-over-a-fire” taste that is signature to Cajun food.
Check Your Pasta: Different pasta shapes cook at different speeds. Check your penne at the 12-minute mark to ensure it stays “al dente” (firm to the bite).
Adjust the Spice: Creole seasoning can be salty and spicy. Start with half a tablespoon, taste the sauce, and add more if you want it bolder.
The Rest Period: Letting the pastalaya recipe rest for 5 minutes after cooking is the secret to a rich, thick sauce that sticks to the pasta.

Health & Nutritional Benefits

This pastalaya recipe is a balanced and energizing meal:

Balanced Energy: You get a good mix of complex carbohydrates for energy and protein for muscle repair.
Rich in Vitamins: The “holy trinity” of vegetables (onion, celery, pepper) provides essential vitamins and minerals.
Easy to Lighten: You can use whole-wheat pasta for more fiber or use low-fat turkey sausage to reduce the calorie count.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and green onions are not just for looks; they provide antioxidants and a fresh vitamin boost.

Is Pastalaya Halal?

Yes, this pastalaya recipe is 100% halal. We ensure this by:

Halal Meat: We specify using only halal-certified beef or chicken sausages and avoiding any pork products common in traditional Cajun recipes.
Safe Broth: We use certified halal chicken broth, ensuring no non-permissible meat extracts or alcohol are involved.
No Alcohol: Traditional recipes sometimes use wine for deglazing; our recipe uses water or extra broth to keep it completely alcohol-free.
Natural Spices: All seasonings used are plant-based and safe for a halal diet.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What does the pastalaya recipe taste like?

A: It tastes like a rich, savory pasta dish with a smoky, slightly spicy, and earthy flavor profile. The combination of tomatoes and Cajun spices gives it a unique “Southern” soul food feel.

Q2: Can I make pastalaya without sausage?

A: Yes! You can use cubed halal chicken breast or even shrimp. If you are vegetarian, you can use mushrooms and extra bell peppers.

Q3: Is pastalaya spicy?

A: It has a mild “warmth” from the Creole seasoning and paprika. If you want it spicy, add red chili flakes. If you want it very mild, use less Creole seasoning.

Q4: Can I use any pasta shape?

A: Yes, but shapes like penne, rotini, or bow-tie work best because they have ridges that hold onto the sauce well.

Q5: How long does pastalaya last in the fridge?

A: It stays fresh in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days. It is a fantastic meal for leftovers!

Final Thoughts

The pastalaya recipe is proof that one-pot cooking can be flavorful and exciting. It brings the spirit of Louisiana into your kitchen in a way that is easy, healthy, and completely halal. By following this simple guide, you can serve a hearty meal that your whole family will love. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different halal meats or extra veggies—make it your own and enjoy every savory bite!