Rotini with Spicy Andouille Sauce
Prepare to be transported straight to the heart of Cajun country with this delicious and hearty Rotini with Spicy Andouille Sauce. Crafted to celebrate my Cajun heritage and inspired by the vibrant flavors of Lake Charles, Louisiana, this dish brings the soul of Mardi Gras right to your table. Whether you’re a fan of spicy foods or just looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to impress. Perfect for a satisfying one-dish meal, it’s packed with savory spices and smoky goodness, offering a robust flavor experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 (14.5-ounce) cans crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
- 1 teaspoon Tabasco sauce (adjust to taste for desired heat level)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 ½ cups rotini pasta
Instructions:
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Brown the Sausage: Begin by heating a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is well-browned. This step adds a rich, smoky flavor that will infuse your sauce.
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Drain the Fat: Once the sausage is browned, carefully drain off any excess fat from the pan. This will prevent the sauce from becoming too greasy and ensure a balanced flavor.
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Cook the Vegetables: Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the same pan. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become transparent but not browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, Tabasco sauce, dried oregano, dried thyme, and chili powder. Mix everything together thoroughly to combine the flavors.
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Simmer: Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld together and intensify.
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Prepare the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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Serve: Once the sauce has simmered and thickened, toss it with the cooked rotini pasta. Serve immediately for the best flavor, and enjoy a taste of Cajun tradition right at home.
Cooking Time:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 941.4
- Fat Content: 43.4 grams
- Saturated Fat Content: 14.8 grams
- Cholesterol Content: 86.3 milligrams
- Sodium Content: 2482.5 milligrams
- Carbohydrate Content: 94.8 grams
- Fiber Content: 7.8 grams
- Sugar Content: 14.9 grams
- Protein Content: 43.1 grams
This dish not only celebrates the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine but also makes for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the rich, spicy flavors and the hearty pasta, and let the essence of Louisiana spice up your dining experience! 🌶️🍝
