Rattlesnake Pasta dances onto your plate like it’s ready for a party. Imagine twirling noodles enveloped in a fiery yet creamy sauce that teases your taste buds with hints of spice and flavor. You can almost smell the garlic mingling with the aroma of sautéed peppers, promising an explosion of deliciousness in every bite.

This fantastic dish isn’t just about flavors; it’s about memories too. I remember the first time I served it at a gathering—everyone was raving about how the heat complemented the creaminess perfectly. It was such a hit that my friends still bring it up every time we get together for dinner!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Rattlesnake Pasta is not only easy to whip up but also bursting with flavor
- Its visual appeal will make your dinner table pop
- You can customize the spice level based on your preference
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests on special occasions
I once made this pasta for a family gathering, and everyone was asking for seconds—definitely a proud chef moment!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Pasta: Use fettuccine or linguine for the best texture; they hold sauces beautifully.
- Cooked Chicken: Grilled or rotisserie chicken works great; shred it to mix well with the sauce.
- Fresh Bell Peppers: Choose colorful bell peppers for added sweetness and crunch; slice them thinly.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves give an aromatic punch that elevates the dish significantly.
- Heavy Cream: This adds richness; opt for full-fat for an indulgent experience.
- Cajun Seasoning: The star ingredient that gives this pasta its signature kick; adjust according to your taste.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan on top before serving for extra creaminess and flavor.
- Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it enhances flavors beautifully.
- Green Onions: Chopped green onions add freshness and color as a garnish.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all flavors and tie everything together.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Prepare yourself because you are about to embark on a culinary adventure!
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add your chosen pasta and cook until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Veggies: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced bell peppers and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and slightly softened—about 3-4 minutes.
Add Chicken: Toss in shredded cooked chicken into the skillet along with Cajun seasoning. Stir well until everything is coated evenly and heated through—this should take another 3-4 minutes.
Create Creamy Sauce: Pour in heavy cream while stirring constantly to combine everything smoothly. Let it simmer gently until thickened slightly, around 5 minutes.
Toss in Pasta: Gently fold cooked pasta into the sauce mixture. Ensure every strand is coated in creamy goodness—this might require some strong wrist action!
Final Touches: Serve hot with grated parmesan cheese on top and garnish with chopped green onions. Brace yourself for compliments!
Now you have your very own bowl of Rattlesnake Pasta ready to impress anyone who dares take a bite! Enjoy every tantalizing mouthful filled with spicy delight!
You Must Know
- Rattlesnake Pasta is a spicy, creamy delight that takes your taste buds on a wild ride
- The combination of flavors creates an irresistible dish that is sure to impress any dinner guest, making it perfect for special occasions or casual weeknight dinners
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the pasta al dente while sautéing the chicken and peppers in a separate pan. Combine them with the sauce for a seamless finish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out proteins like shrimp or sausage, and experiment with different cheeses for extra flavor. Adding fresh herbs can elevate the dish even further.
Storing & Reheating
Store Rattlesnake Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To prevent overcooking, keep pasta slightly firm before combining with sauce
- Fresh ingredients make a huge difference; opt for ripe tomatoes and fresh herbs whenever possible
- For an extra kick, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes right before serving!
Sometimes, I whip up Rattlesnake Pasta when friends come over. The look on their faces when they take that first bite? Priceless! It’s become our go-to comfort food for gatherings and celebrations.
FAQ
What makes Rattlesnake Pasta spicy?
The heat comes from jalapeños or other spicy peppers blended into the creamy sauce.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well and maintains great flavor and texture.
How can I make it vegetarian?
Substitute chicken with tofu or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Rattlesnake Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Rattlesnake Pasta is a creamy, spicy delight that combines tender pasta with zesty flavors, perfect for any occasion and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
- Fettuccine or linguine pasta
- Cooked chicken (grilled or rotisserie)
- Fresh bell peppers
- Garlic
- Heavy cream
- Cajun seasoning
- Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Green onions
- Salt & pepper
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain.
- Sauté the veggies: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced bell peppers and minced garlic; sauté for 3-4 minutes.
- Add chicken: Stir in shredded chicken and Cajun seasoning; heat through for another 3-4 minutes.
- Create sauce: Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly until thickened, roughly 5 minutes.
- Toss pasta: Fold cooked pasta into the sauce mixture until well-coated.
- Serve: Top with grated parmesan and garnish with chopped green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg