Cajun Turkey Pappardelle Cheese: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Cajun Turkey Pappardelle Cheese: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Imagine tender, succulent turkey, infused with the vibrant spices of Cajun cuisine, all nestled amongst perfectly cooked pappardelle pasta, and enveloped in a creamy, dreamy cheese sauce. Sounds divine, doesn’t it?

This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that dance harmoniously on your palate. While the exact origins of this particular combination are modern, it draws inspiration from the rich culinary heritage of Louisiana, where Cajun spices reign supreme. The influence of Italian pasta-making traditions adds another layer of depth, creating a fusion dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

People adore this Cajun Turkey Pappardelle Cheese because it’s the perfect balance of indulgence and ease. It’s a dish that feels special enough for a weekend gathering, yet simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. The creamy cheese sauce provides a comforting richness, while the Cajun spices add a delightful kick that keeps you coming back for more. The wide, ribbon-like pappardelle pasta is ideal for capturing all that delicious sauce, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, let’s get cooking and create some magic!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Cajun Turkey:
• 2 lbs boneless, skinless turkey thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and minced (optional)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• For the Pappardelle:
• 1 lb fresh pappardelle pasta
• 8 quarts water
• 2 tablespoons salt
• For the Cheese Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 8 oz Gruyere cheese, shredded
• 4 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 oz Parmesan cheese, grated

Preparing the Cajun Turkey:

Alright, let’s get started with the star of the show – the Cajun turkey! This is where all that delicious, spicy flavor comes from. Don’t be shy with the Cajun seasoning; it’s what makes this dish sing!

1. Season the Turkey: In a large bowl, toss the turkey cubes with the Cajun seasoning. Make sure every piece is nicely coated. This will ensure maximum flavor in every bite.
2. Sear the Turkey: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned turkey and sear on all sides until browned. You might need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lower the temperature and prevent proper browning. Remove the turkey from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, bell peppers (both green and red), and jalapeno (if using) and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. The aroma at this point should be amazing!
4. Simmer the Sauce: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained) and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These browned bits are packed with flavor, so don’t leave them behind!
5. Return the Turkey: Return the seared turkey to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the turkey is cooked through and tender. The turkey should be easily pierced with a fork.
6. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream and chopped parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Be careful not to boil the cream, as it can curdle.

Cooking the Pappardelle:

While the turkey is simmering, let’s get the pappardelle ready. Fresh pappardelle cooks quickly, so keep a close eye on it!

1. Boil the Water: Bring 8 quarts of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add 2 tablespoons of salt. The salt not only seasons the pasta but also helps it cook properly.
2. Cook the Pasta: Add the fresh pappardelle to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until al dente. Fresh pasta cooks much faster than dried pasta, so be sure to check it frequently.
3. Drain the Pasta: Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving about 1 cup of the pasta water. The pasta water is starchy and can be used to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed.

Making the Cheese Sauce:

Now for the decadent cheese sauce! This is where the magic happens. Using a blend of Gruyere, cheddar, and Parmesan creates a complex and flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the Cajun turkey and pappardelle.

1. Make the Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and pale golden in color. This is called a roux, and it’s the base of our cheese sauce.
2. Whisk in the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, about 1/2 cup at a time, making sure to whisk out any lumps before adding more. Continue whisking until all the milk is incorporated and the sauce is smooth.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Season the Sauce: Stir in the salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth to the cheese sauce.
5. Melt the Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat and gradually stir in the Gruyere, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Make sure the sauce is off the heat when you add the cheese to prevent it from becoming grainy.

Assembling the Dish:

Finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for – putting everything together! This is where all your hard work pays off. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

1. Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the drained pappardelle to the saucepan with the cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
2. Add the Cajun Turkey: Add the Cajun turkey and sauce to the pasta and cheese sauce. Toss gently to combine everything.
3. Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with extra chopped fresh parsley, if desired. This dish is best enjoyed hot, so don’t let it sit for too long before serving.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and jalapeno pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, use less Cajun seasoning and omit the jalapeno. If you like it extra spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning.
• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese in the cheese sauce. Fontina, Gouda, or Havarti would all be delicious additions.
• Vegetable Additions: Add other vegetables to the Cajun turkey, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
• Make it Ahead: The Cajun turkey can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before adding to the pasta and cheese sauce.
• Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave. You may need to add a little milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this Cajun Turkey Pappardelle with Cheese Sauce as much as I do! It’s a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Don’t be afraid to get creative and customize the recipe to your own taste. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Cajun Turkey Pappardelle Cheese recipe isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen! The creamy, cheesy sauce, kicked up with the vibrant spices of Cajun seasoning, perfectly complements the tender turkey and broad, satisfying pappardelle noodles. It’s a comforting yet exciting meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to add a little zest and deliciousness to their weeknight dinners.

But why is it a must-try? Because it’s incredibly versatile! You’re not just stuck with turkey. Feel free to use leftover rotisserie chicken, smoked sausage, or even shrimp for a different protein twist. Vegetarian? No problem! Sauté some bell peppers, onions, and zucchini with the Cajun seasoning for a hearty and flavorful meat-free option. The possibilities are truly endless.

Beyond the protein, consider playing with the cheese blend. While I’ve suggested a classic combination of cheddar and mozzarella, feel free to experiment with Gruyere for a nutty depth, pepper jack for an extra kick, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan for a salty finish. And don’t be shy with the Cajun seasoning! Adjust the amount to your personal preference – whether you like a subtle warmth or a fiery inferno, this recipe can handle it.

Serving suggestions? This Cajun Turkey Pappardelle Cheese is fantastic on its own, but a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread is always a welcome addition for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce. For a more complete meal, consider adding some steamed green beans or roasted asparagus.

And speaking of variations, think about adding some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and acidity, or a handful of chopped spinach for a boost of nutrients. You could even stir in a dollop of pesto for an herbaceous twist. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the magic of Cajun Turkey Pappardelle Cheese for yourself. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Don’t be afraid to get creative and put your own spin on it!

I truly believe that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food and exciting flavors, and it’s so easy to customize to your liking. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get cooking!

Once you’ve tried it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any modifications? What did you think of the flavor? Share your photos and comments with me – I’m always eager to see how you’ve made this recipe your own. Happy cooking, and enjoy every cheesy, spicy bite of this incredible Cajun Turkey Pappardelle Cheese! I can’t wait to hear all about your culinary adventures!