Rattlesnake Pasta: History, Recipe, Variations, and Pairings

Rаttlesnake Pasta tastes wild and creamy , it crowd-pleases folks in the Southwestern United States and beyond . This rich pasta meal has its roots in simple regional cooking that blends bold spices with smooth dairy . It gain popularity in the 1980s and since then many home cooks and restaurants have tried to copy its spicy cream sauce blend .

The secret to Rattlesnake Pasta lies in its kicky sauce and colorful mix of veggies . Usually you’ll use fettuccine or penne , then stir in a heavy cream sauce with fresh jalapeños for that nice heat . You can toss in sautéed chicken or shrimp , plus bell peppers and onions for extra crunch . A heap of grated Parmesan over the top gives it that fancy finish .

People love this dish because it’s so easy to change up . You can dial the spice up or down , swap proteins , and even turn it veggie-friendly . Whether you’re at a family dinner table or grabbing dinner at a trendy spot , Rattlesnake Pasta hits with comfort and a bit of fire .

History of Rаttlesnake Pasta

Southwestern cooking is a mash-up of Native American , Mexican , and cowboy food traditions . Rattlesnake Pasta shows off that combo by using fresh ingredients and spicy seasonings , all mixed into one hearty dish . It feels a bit rustic but still full of bright flavor .

Back in the 1980s , chefs got creative and started adding jalapeños and cream to pasta . As Southwest food got more famous , this dish popped on menus from small diners to fancy eateries . People loved the way pasta and peppers danced together in a sauce that was both spicy and smooth .

Over time , Rattlesnake Pasta became more than supper—it’s a dish for get-togethers and parties . Serving it sparks fun chats because of the playful name , and it brings folks together over a big bowl of creamy heat .

Ingredients Used in Rattlesnake Pasta

First , pick your pasta: fettuccine or penne work best because they hold that thick sauce well .

Next , the sauce: heavy cream melts with Parmesan cheese and fresh jalapeños for the trademark heat . Add garlic powder , salt , and pepper to round things out .

Protein is up to you: chicken or shrimp are classic , but mushrooms or tofu make it veggie-friendly . Don’t forget sliced bell peppers and onions for color and crunch .

Detailed Recipe for Rаttlesnake Pasta

Ingredients

• 12 oz of fettuccine or penne
• 1–2 tablespoon oil
• 1 lb chicken or shrimp
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2–3 fresh jalapeños, diced
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1–2 cups bell peppers and onions (optional)
• Seasonings: garlic powder, salt, and pepper
• Parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Cook the pasta : Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente . Drain and set aside .
2. Prepare protein : In a skillet, heat oil and sauté chicken or shrimp until cooked through .
3. Make the sauce : In same pan, add jalapeños and cook till they soften . Pour in cream and bring to a simmer .
4. Combine : Stir in Parmesan until melted . Add pasta and mix well . Taste and tweak seasoning .
5. Serve and garnish : Plate the pasta , top with more cheese and parsley .

Tips and Advice

• Adjust spice : For less heat, scrape out jalapeño seeds or use fewer peppers . For extra fire, toss in more jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce .
• Substitutions : Try gluten-free pasta if needed . To make it vegan, swap cream with coconut milk and cheese with nutritional yeast .
• Serving ideas : A green salad with light vinaigrette balances the creaminess . Pair with a crisp Chardonnay or a tangy Sauvignon Blanc .

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Rattlesnake Pasta gives you roughly :

• Calories: 600
• Fat: 35g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g

Jalapeños may boost your metabolism , and the protein helps keep muscles strong .

Variations of Rаttlesnake Pasta

• Vegetarian : Swap chicken or shrimp for mushrooms or tofu , same sauce .
• Seafood twist : Add crab or lobster for a fancy version .
• Extra spicy : Mix in more peppers or drop in some hot sauce .

Pairing Drinks with Rattlesnake Pasta

• Wines : A fruit-forward Chardonnay or zesty Sauvignon Blanc cut through the creaminess .
• Beers : Light pale ales or lagers balance the spice .
• Cocktails : A margarita or spicy Bloody Mary kicks it up a notch .

Popular Restaurants Serving Rattlesnake Pasta

• The Rattlesnake Grill : Known for real Southwestern flavors and local ingredients .
• Cactus Jack's : A casual spot famous for its friendly vibe and protein choices .
• Desert Oasis : An upscale eatery that adds gourmet touches and seasonal produce .

FAQs about Rattlesnake Pasta

What is Rattlesnake Pasta ?

A creamy pasta dish with spicy jalapeños and a rich sauce , often with chicken or shrimp .

Is Rattlesnake Pasta spicy ?

Yes , the jalapeños add heat . But you can make it mild by using fewer peppers .

Can I make Rattlesnake Pasta ahead of time ?

Sure , store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days .

Are there vegetarian alternatives ?

Yes , try mushrooms , tofu , or even chickpeas instead of meat .

Conclusion

Rattlesnake Pasta brings the bold heart of Southwestern cuisine to your table . It’s easy to tweak for any taste , from mild to extra spicy , and always feels like a fun, comforting meal . Give it a try and find your perfect spice level .

Rattlesnake Pasta

Rattlesnake Pasta is a bold and flavorful dish that combines tender pasta with spicy, creamy sauce and slices of chicken, garnished with peppers and spices for a kick. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 People

Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

• 1 large pot
• 1 large skillet
• 1 colander
• 1 cooking spoon
• 1 measuring cups and spoons
• 1 knife and cutting board

Ingredients

  

• 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
• 1 pound chicken breast, sliced into strips
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• to taste salt salt
• to taste pepper pepper
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• optional fresh parsley, chopped for garnish optional

Instructions

 

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic, sliced red and green bell peppers, and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the peppers are tender.
• Return the chicken to the skillet. Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 5 minutes.
• Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well coated. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
• Serve hot with a garnish of fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

For extra heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can also substitute shrimp for chicken for a seafood variation. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your spice tolerance.