Bring a bold Southern flair to your dinner table with this cozy, flavor-packed Jambalaya Pasta. Inspired by the traditional Louisiana dish but given a fun pasta twist, this recipe is brimming with bold spices, hearty plant-based proteins, and satisfying comfort. It’s the perfect balance of smoky, savory, and saucy—and the kind of meal that gets even better the next day.
Whether you’re cooking for friends or whipping up a weeknight favorite, this pasta version of jambalaya hits all the right notes. Let’s dive into how to bring these deep flavors together effortlessly.
Table of contents
What is Jambalaya Pasta?
Jambalaya Pasta is a creative twist on the classic Creole and Cajun dish, Jambalaya. Traditionally made with rice, it’s known for its layers of flavor, smoky spices, and protein-packed ingredients.
In this version, spaghetti stands in for rice, turning it into a cozy pasta dish that keeps all the heart and soul of the original.
It’s a complete one-pot-style meal that combines the richness of jambalaya seasoning with the comforting appeal of a saucy pasta.
Why Jambalaya Flavors and Pasta Work So Well Together
There’s something irresistible about the smoky depth of jambalaya seasoning paired with tender pasta.
The spices cling to every strand, making each bite vibrant and bold. Adding pasta into the mix allows the tomato-based sauce to coat everything beautifully, while the vegan chicken and sausage add richness and texture.
The fusion works because pasta provides the perfect canvas for those robust flavors to shine through.
Ingredients for the Best Results
This dish comes together with familiar pantry staples and fresh veggies. The combination of vegan sausage and chicken gives it that classic jambalaya protein mix while keeping things lighter.
Sweet bell peppers and onions add texture and sweetness, and a few cloves of garlic deepen the savory base. Using a homemade Jambalaya seasoning blend really takes the dish to another level, and either crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce builds the saucy component that ties it all together.
Spaghetti holds up well to all the flavors, but feel free to swap it for another pasta if that’s what you have on hand.
How to Make Easy Jambalaya Pasta
Start by heating a bit of vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot. Sauté chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened and fragrant.
Add your vegan sausage and chicken, browning them lightly to build flavor. Sprinkle in your homemade jambalaya seasoning and stir everything to coat the vegetables and proteins evenly.
Next, pour in your crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce and let it simmer gently while your pasta cooks. Once the spaghetti is al dente, drain it and toss it directly into the sauce, making sure every strand is coated.
Let it all bubble together for a few minutes so the pasta absorbs that signature kick. And just like that, you’ve got a restaurant-style meal at home.
Tips and Tricks for Leftovers
Jambalaya Pasta keeps beautifully in the fridge, and honestly—it might taste even better the next day.
Let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. When reheating, a splash of water or broth can help revive the sauce.
You can enjoy leftovers straight from the microwave or reheat gently on the stove. It also freezes well if you’re prepping meals ahead.
Ideas for Variations and Uses
This recipe is easy to adapt depending on what you have.
Swap spaghetti with penne, linguine, or even rotini for a fun shape change. Feel free to add in corn, okra, or diced tomatoes for added Southern charm. If you’re craving more heat, toss in extra cayenne or hot sauce. Want it creamier? Stir in a touch of cashew cream or a swirl of plant-based yogurt before serving.
Use it as a hearty main dish or pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a full meal experience. It’s just as impressive for guests as it is for your regular meal rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jambalaya Pasta
Absolutely! It’s a great meal to make in advance, and the flavors continue to deepen in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.
Yes, but I recommend using a homemade jambalaya seasoning blend for the freshest and most vibrant flavor.
Spaghetti is classic here, but any sturdy pasta will do. Just be sure it’s cooked al dente before combining with the sauce.
It has a gentle heat that’s customizable. Adjust the seasoning based on your spice tolerance, or add hot sauce at the end to dial it up.
Recipe recommendations
Make It, Love It, and Share It
There’s something truly magical about this Jambalaya Pasta—it’s bold, comforting, and a little bit unexpected.
I hope you enjoy making it as much as I loved putting this together for you. If you try it, I’d absolutely love to see your creations! Tag me on Instagram or Facebook so I can cheer you on in your cooking adventures.
And if you loved this recipe, don’t forget to leave a comment and a star rating below. It helps more people discover this easy, delicious recipe—and I really appreciate your feedback!
Jambalaya Pasta
Add a Southern twist to your dinner with this flavorful Jambalaya Pasta. Inspired by Louisiana’s classic dish, it features bold spices, plant-based proteins, and comforting flavors. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is smoky, savory, and saucy.
Ingredients
- 6 oz vegan chicken
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 7 oz vegan sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed
- Jambalaya seasoning
- 1 cup tomato sauuce or crushed tomatoes
- salt, pepper to taste
Instructions
- Start by heating a bit of vegetable oil in a large skillet or pot. Sauté chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened and fragrant.
- Add your vegan sausage and chicken, browning them lightly to build flavor. Sprinkle in your homemade jambalaya seasoning and stir everything to coat the vegetables and proteins evenly.
- Next, pour in your crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce and let it simmer gently while your pasta cooks. Once the spaghetti is al dente, drain it and toss it directly into the sauce, making sure every strand is coated.
- Let it all bubble together for a few minutes so the pasta absorbs that signature kick.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1.5 cupsAmount Per Serving: Calories: 443Total Fat: 17gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 1016mgCarbohydrates: 31gFiber: 5gSugar: 7gProtein: 21g