Get ready to fall in love with Rattlesnake Pasta—a meal that effortlessly weaves together the fiery spirit of Cajun spice, creamy sauce, and vibrant vegetables for a weeknight dish that feels downright special. This recipe balances tender penne, juicy chicken breast, sweet peppers, and a deep, cheesy finish, all livened up with just the right touch of heat from jalapeño. If you crave comfort with a kick, this is the kind of pasta that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds)!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Rattlesnake Pasta comes from a handful of easy-to-find ingredients that shine when put together. Every component plays its part—bringing color, flavor, or that decadent texture we all dream of in a creamy pasta dish.

Penne pasta: Hearty enough to soak up all that luscious sauce, penne holds up beautifully to tossing and serving.
Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Quick-cooking and lean, it soaks up the Cajun spices to deliver juicy bites in every forkful.
Olive oil: Used in both stages of sautéeing, olive oil adds subtle flavor and helps everything brown beautifully.
Cajun seasoning: The flavor engine of Rattlesnake Pasta—bold, spicy, and always customizable to your heat level.
Red and green bell peppers: Their sweetness balances the spice, while their colors make the dish irresistible to look at.
Red onion: Milder and sweeter than regular onions, red onions lend both flavor and crunch.
Garlic: Minced fresh, garlic brings earthy depth and mouthwatering aroma.
Jalapeño peppers: The wild card—adjust the quantity and remove the seeds to control the heat, but don’t skip for that signature “rattlesnake” kick!
Butter: Melts into the sauce, providing a rich flavor base for the creaminess to come.
All-purpose flour: Just a sprinkle thickens the sauce to silky perfection.
Milk or half-and-half: Choose milk for a lighter sauce, or half-and-half for full-on creamy indulgence.
Parmesan cheese: Salty, nutty, and melty, this is the finishing touch that makes your sauce restaurant-worthy.
Salt and black pepper: To amplify and balance all the big flavors going on here.
Fresh parsley: Chopped and fresh, parsley brightens the entire plate as a garnish.

How to Make Rattlesnake Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the penne. Stir occasionally as it cooks to prevent sticking. Aim for that perfect al dente texture—firm with just a bit of bite. Once ready, drain and set aside. This pasta is the foundation that will soak up every drop of that creamy, spicy sauce!

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken with Cajun Seasoning

While your pasta bubbles away, toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning so every bite is packed with flavor. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until each piece is browned and cooked through—usually about 5 to 7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate and try not to steal too many bites!

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Throw in your vibrant bell peppers, red onion, minced garlic, and those bold slices of jalapeño. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender-crisp and their colors shine—about 5 minutes. Remove them from the skillet (they’ll join the party again soon).

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Keeping all those savory, caramelized bits in the pan, lower the heat and melt your butter. Whisk in the flour and let it cook for 1 to 2 minutes. This quick roux is the secret to a velvety sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk (or half-and-half) until you have a smooth base, letting it gently bubble and thicken.

Step 5: Stir in Cheese and Seasonings

When your sauce begins to thicken, sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, plus salt and black pepper. Stir until the cheese melts into utter silkiness. Take a taste—this is when you adjust salt or spice to your liking!

Step 6: Toss Everything Together

Add the cooked pasta, Cajun chicken, and sautéed veggies right into the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss until everything is coated and glossy, letting the flavors meld together for a final minute on low heat. Now, your Rattlesnake Pasta is ready for its big debut!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the Rattlesnake Pasta into bowls while it’s hot and creamy, then shower each plate with chopped fresh parsley for color and brightness. Pause to admire, then dig in—the spicy, creamy, cheesy flavors won’t let you wait long!

How to Serve Rattlesnake Pasta

Garnishes

Finish your Rattlesnake Pasta with a flurry of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of freshness, and if you want a boost, grate a little extra Parmesan right on top. For spice seekers, a few thin slices of jalapeño make a bold, beautiful statement. Lemon zest also works wonders for a little zing!

Side Dishes

This spicy pasta begs for a cool, crisp green salad—think a simple mix of arugula, baby spinach, or romaine, lightly tossed in vinaigrette. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is ideal for swiping up every bit of sauce, and roasted veggies like broccoli or asparagus can add subtle sweetness to complement the heat.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling playful? Serve your Rattlesnake Pasta in colorful bowls or rustic skillets for a casual, festive vibe. Pile portions high in a large serving platter with extra parsley and pepper rings scattered around. Or, for a fun twist, spoon the pasta into mini cast-iron pans or ramekins for individual servings at your next dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Rattlesnake Pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it’ll keep for up to 3 days without sacrificing too much of its creamy texture or punchy flavor.

Freezing

While the cream sauce can change texture after freezing, you can freeze Rattlesnake Pasta if you have extra. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, squeezing out as much air as possible. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. It’s perfect for a busy-week comfort dinner later on!

Reheating

For best results, gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce as needed. You can also microwave individual servings in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. Either way, stir often to prevent the sauce from separating and keep everything deliciously creamy.

FAQs

How spicy is Rattlesnake Pasta?

It has a moderate kick, thanks to jalapeños and Cajun seasoning, but you control the heat! Use fewer jalapeños or remove seeds for a milder experience, or kick it up by leaving in some seeds or adding hot sauce at the end.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne is classic for its sauce-catching ridges, feel free to use rigatoni, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to cook it al dente and keep a similar shape for the best texture.

Is there a vegetarian option for Rattlesnake Pasta?

Yes, you can skip the chicken or substitute with sautéed mushrooms, tempeh, or tofu for a plant-based twist. The bold sauce and plenty of veggies ensure you won’t miss the meat.

Can I prepare Rattlesnake Pasta ahead of time?

You can prep the veggies and chicken a day ahead, and even make the sauce in advance. For best texture, assemble everything just before serving, as pasta tends to absorb sauce and soften over time.

What’s the best way to keep the sauce creamy?

Stir constantly while making the roux and be patient whisking in the milk, which helps prevent lumps. If reheating, add a splash of milk and heat gently, stirring often to keep everything smooth and luscious.

Final Thoughts

If you love a creamy pasta that doesn’t shy away from bold flavors, this Rattlesnake Pasta will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. It’s surprisingly simple, endlessly customizable, and certain to wow anyone lucky enough to gather around your table. Don’t wait—give it a try and let the spicy, cheesy goodness win you over!