Rattlesnake Pasta
Rattlesnake Pasta is not just a dish—it’s a full-on flavor explosion. Combining the kick of Cajun spices, the creaminess of Alfredo sauce, and the satisfying bite of sautéed chicken and peppers, this pasta is a signature comfort food with a fiery twist.
Despite the name, there’s no actual rattlesnake in the recipe. The name comes from the dish’s sharp, spicy heat that sneaks up on you—just like a rattlesnake would. It’s bold, creamy, and unforgettable.
What Is Rattlesnake Pasta?
Rattlesnake pasta is a Southwestern-inspired dish that blends:
- Creamy Alfredo sauce
- Spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken
- Bell peppers and jalapeños
- Penne or fettuccine pasta
- A touch of Monterey Jack and parmesan cheese
- Garnished with fresh herbs and crushed red pepper flakes
It’s restaurant-quality comfort food with a fiery personality, perfect for anyone who loves spicy pasta with creamy depth.
Ingredients for Rattlesnake Pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 jalapeño, thinly sliced (optional for extra heat)
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Additional parmesan
- Lime wedges (optional)
How to Make Rattlesnake Pasta
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil pasta in heavily salted water according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken
- Toss chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, melt butter.
- Sauté garlic, bell peppers, and jalapeños for about 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Make the Sauce
- Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then stir in parmesan, Monterey Jack, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
5. Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
- Toss in the cooked pasta and stir to coat evenly in the spicy cream sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs, a squeeze of lime (optional), and extra parmesan.
- Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta
- Restaurant-worthy taste at home
- Customizable heat level (go mild or fiery)
- Perfect balance of creamy and spicy
- Easy 30-minute recipe
- Great for family dinners or weekend indulgence
Tips for Perfect Rattlesnake Pasta
- Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce.
- For added heat, toss in sliced jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra Cajun seasoning.
- Swap chicken with shrimp, steak, or even tofu for a twist.
- Double the sauce for an extra creamy version.
- Don’t skip the lime—it adds a fresh contrast to the richness.
Rattlesnake Pasta Variations
| Ingredient | Swap With |
|---|---|
| Chicken | Shrimp, steak, tofu |
| Cream | Half-and-half, coconut cream (dairy-free) |
| Pasta | Linguine, rotini, gluten-free pasta |
| Peppers | Poblano, Anaheim, or roasted red peppers |
| Cheese | Pepper Jack, Asiago, or cheddar |
Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for even more flavor layers.
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently over low heat on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
- Not recommended for freezing due to the cream base.
Nutritional Snapshot (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 620–700 kcal |
| Protein | 30–35g |
| Carbs | 50–60g |
| Fat | 35–40g |
| Fiber | 3–5g |
Rattlesnake pasta is rich, filling, and protein-packed, making it a satisfying main course.
Pairing Suggestions
- Drinks: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, a light beer, or a citrusy cocktail.
- Sides: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, grilled asparagus, or roasted vegetables.
Conclusion
Rattlesnake Pasta is everything you want in a bold and comforting dish—creamy, spicy, and loaded with flavor**. It’s the kind of meal that disappears fast and leaves everyone asking for seconds. With its vibrant color, kick of heat, and luscious sauce, this pasta is destined to become a repeat favorite.
