If you’ve ever dined at 54th Street Grill & Bar, you know their Rattlesnake Pasta is a standout dish that perfectly blends bold flavors with creamy comfort. This recipe brings that same irresistible combination right into our kitchens, letting us enjoy a taste of this popular favorite anytime.
We love how the spicy sausage, fresh veggies, and rich Alfredo sauce come together to create a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, this Rattlesnake Pasta recipe is sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.
Let’s dive into making this flavorful pasta that’s packed with just the right amount of kick and creaminess. It’s a great way to spice up your dinner routine while enjoying a dish inspired by a beloved classic.
Ingredients
To recreate the 54th Street Rattlesnake Pasta at home, we need a perfect balance of creamy Alfredo, spicy sausage, fresh vegetables, and the right pasta. Below, we break down the ingredients into categories for clarity and ease.
Pasta
We use a pasta that holds sauce well and complements the bold flavors of this dish. Here’s what we need:
- 12 oz penne pasta (or rigatoni for extra sauce grip)
- Salt for pasta water (about 1 tablespoon)
Protein and Vegetables
The spicy sausage and fresh vegetables bring the signature boldness and texture to the dish:
| Ingredient | Preparation | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Italian sausage | Casings removed, crumbled | 1 pound |
| Red bell pepper | Thinly sliced | 1 medium |
| Yellow onion | Finely chopped | 1 medium |
| Jalapeño pepper | Seeded and thinly sliced | 1 small |
| Garlic cloves | Minced | 3 cloves |
Sauce and Spices
Creating the creamy Alfredo sauce with a spicy kick is essential. Here’s what we gather:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Garnishes and Toppings
The finishing touches bring aroma, flavor, and visual appeal to the dish:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
- Optional: Sliced green onions or chopped cilantro
By organizing the ingredients thoughtfully, we ensure smooth preparation and bring the authentic 54th Street Rattlesnake Pasta experience right to our kitchen table.
Equipment Needed
To recreate the bold flavors and creamy texture of the 54th Street Rattlesnake Pasta, we need the right tools to ensure perfect results every time. Here is the essential equipment list that will help us cook efficiently and achieve authentic flavors in our kitchen.
Essential Cooking Tools
- Large Pot
For boiling the pasta to the ideal al dente texture.
- Large Skillet or Sauté Pan
To cook the spicy sausage, sauté vegetables, and combine all ingredients with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Colander
To drain the cooked pasta quickly and effectively without losing any of the flavorful sauce.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
Ideal for stirring the sauce gently to avoid breaking the creaminess while incorporating all elements evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurement of ingredients keeps the dish balanced especially the spicy and creamy components.
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board
For chopping fresh vegetables and slicing sausage precisely.
Optional but Helpful
- Garlic Press
To add freshly minced garlic effortlessly into the sauce enhancing the aromatic profile.
- Grater
For shredding Parmesan or Asiago cheese, which boosts the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
- Serving Dish or Pasta Bowl
To present our 54th Street Rattlesnake Pasta with style.
Equipment Overview
| Equipment | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boiling pasta | Use salted water for flavor |
| Large Skillet | Cooking sausage and sauce | Nonstick preferred |
| Colander | Draining pasta | Quick drainage |
| Wooden Spoon/Spatula | Stirring sauce | Prevents sauce from breaking |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement | Key for spice and cream balance |
| Chef’s Knife | Chopping vegetables and sausage | Sharp for precision |
| Garlic Press (Optional) | Mince garlic | Saves time |
| Grater (Optional) | Shredding cheese | Adds fresh cheese texture |
| Serving Dish | Final dish presentation | Enhances dining experience |
By preparing these tools in advance, we streamline the cooking process and ensure each step unfolds smoothly. This attentiveness lets the rich, spicy sausage and creamy Alfredo sauce meld perfectly around the pasta creating the unforgettable 54th Street Rattlesnake Pasta experience.
Prep Work
Before diving into cooking, preparing our ingredients and tools efficiently allows us to create the 54th Street Rattlesnake Pasta smoothly and perfectly every time.
Preparing the Pasta
We start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Use about 4 quarts of water with 1 tablespoon of salt to season it well. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the pasta.
| Pasta Type | Cooking Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Penne or Rigatoni | 10-12 minutes | Cook al dente for best texture |
We stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When done, drain the pasta but reserve ½ cup of the pasta water for adjusting the Alfredo sauce later. Keeping the pasta warm by covering it loosely is key.
Chopping Vegetables and Protein
Precision here impacts flavor balance and cooking time. We finely dice 1 green bell pepper and 1 jalapeño pepper, removing the seeds for milder heat or keeping them for spice. Next, chop 2 cloves of garlic finely or use a garlic press for maximum aroma release. Slice 8 ounces of spicy Italian sausage into bite-sized pieces, or crumble it if preferred.
- For vegetables and meat preparation:
| Ingredient | Prep Method | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Green bell pepper | Diced | 1 medium |
| Jalapeño pepper | Diced, seeds optional | 1 medium |
| Garlic cloves | Minced | 2 |
| Spicy Italian sausage | Sliced or crumbled | 8 ounces |
Ensuring uniform cuts helps the vegetables and sausage cook evenly and blend well with the Alfredo sauce.
Making the Sauce
The creamy Alfredo sauce is critical for authentic 54th Street Rattlesnake Pasta. We melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Then add the minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant but not browned, about 1 minute. Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously to combine.
We slowly whisk in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, adding the reserved pasta water gradually will yield the perfect consistency. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, balancing creaminess with the sausage’s bold flavors.
By prepping the pasta, vegetables, protein, and sauce meticulously, we set the foundation for an unforgettable 54th Street Rattlesnake Pasta experience.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s walk through the steps to bring our 54th Street Rattlesnake Pasta Recipe to life. From perfectly searing the protein and vegetables to crafting the creamy sauce and combining everything for maximum flavor, we will ensure every element shines.
Cooking the Protein and Vegetables
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to coat the pan.
- Add the spicy Italian sausage, either crumbled or sliced, spreading it evenly in the skillet.
- Cook the sausage for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned and cooked through.
- Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
- Add the diced green bell pepper and minced jalapeño to the skillet.
- Sauté the vegetables for 3 to 4 minutes until tender but still vibrant.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Pro tip: Keeping the sausage fat in the pan adds flavor and depth to the veggies and sauce that follow.
Preparing the Sauce
- With the skillet still hot, reduce the heat to medium-low and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
- Once the butter melts, pour in 1 ½ cups of heavy cream slowly while stirring continuously.
- Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
- Season the sauce with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning for that signature spicy kick.
- Season lightly with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Keep the sauce warm on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted Butter | 4 tablespoons | Melt in skillet |
| Heavy Cream | 1 ½ cups | Stir in slowly |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1 cup | Freshly grated |
| Cajun Seasoning | 1 teaspoon | Adjust to taste |
| Salt & Black Pepper | To taste | Season last |
Combining Pasta with Sauce and Mix-ins
- Drain the cooked pasta (penne or rigatoni), reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.
- Add the pasta directly to the simmering sauce in the skillet.
- Return the cooked sausage and sautéed vegetables to the pan.
- Toss everything together gently but thoroughly until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
- If the sauce seems too thick, slowly stir in reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- Cook the mixture over low heat for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Finish by garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Assembly and Serving
Now that we have perfectly cooked pasta and rich, spicy 54Th Street Rattlesnake Alfredo sauce ready, let’s move on to assembling and serving this irresistible dish. Proper assembly highlights its vibrant flavors and creates an inviting presentation.
Plating the Pasta
To plate our 54Th Street Rattlesnake Pasta, follow these steps for a clean and appealing presentation:
- Use warm plates to keep the dish hot longer.
- Twirl the pasta onto the center of each plate using tongs or a fork and spoon. This technique keeps the pasta neat and helps retain sauce on every bite.
- Ensure an even distribution of sausage and sautéed vegetables across each serving.
- Spoon any leftover sauce from the pan around the edges of the pasta. This subtle pool of sauce enhances visual appeal and flavor with each forkful.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Warm plates | Heat plates briefly in oven or microwave before plating |
| Twirl pasta neatly | Use tongs/fork to shape pasta mound at center |
| Distribute ingredients | Balance sausage and veggies evenly on pasta |
| Sauce around edges | Spoon remaining sauce decoratively around pasta mound |
Adding Garnishes and Final Touches
Garnishes elevate this dish by enhancing flavor layers and adding color contrast. Here’s what we recommend for a flawless finish:
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the pasta for a bright herbal note and vibrant green color.
- Add a generous dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to boost umami and create a creamy melt-on-the-tongue sensation.
- Optional: Finish with a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you desire an extra kick of heat consistent with the 54Th Street Rattlesnake flavor profile.
- Drizzle a tiny bit of extra virgin olive oil or garlic-infused oil for shine and aromatic depth.
“The key to an outstanding Rattlesnake Pasta lies not just in the cooking but in the final presentation that stirs your senses before the first bite.“
By following these plating and garnishing tips, we ensure each serving embodies the bold, creamy, spicy characteristics that make the 54Th Street Rattlesnake Pasta a beloved classic.
Tips for the Best 54Th Street Rattlesnake Pasta
To master the 54Th Street Rattlesnake Pasta at home and capture its signature boldness and creamy richness, we need to focus on key details throughout the cooking process. Here are our top tips to elevate this dish from good to unforgettable.
1. Choose the Right Pasta Shape
We recommend using penne or rigatoni for the best texture and sauce pickup. Their ridges hold the creamy Alfredo sauce and spicy sausage perfectly, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.
| Pasta Type | Texture Benefit | Sauce Holding Ability |
|---|---|---|
| Penne | Smooth tube with ridges | Holds sauce inside and out |
| Rigatoni | Larger ridged tube | Excellent for chunky sauce |
2. Cook Pasta Al Dente
Boil pasta in generously salted water until just al dente—usually 9-11 minutes depending on the brand. Overcooking will cause the pasta to become mushy and won’t hold the sauce as well.
“Cooking pasta al dente is key to maintaining the dish’s texture and ensuring it perfectly melds with the creamy, spicy sauce.”
3. Use Quality Sausage and Fresh Veggies
Selecting spicy Italian sausage with the right fat content is essential. We want enough fat to render and flavor the dish without overwhelming it. Fresh vegetables like bell pepper and jalapeño should be diced uniformly for even sautéing and balanced heat.
4. Master the Alfredo Sauce Consistency
Our Alfredo sauce must be silky and thick enough to coat every piece of pasta without clumping. Melt butter gently and add cream gradually while whisking constantly. Incorporate freshly grated Parmesan cheese off the heat to avoid graininess.
5. Layer Flavors Strategically
Build complexity by:
- Searing the sausage until browned for depth.
- Sautéing garlic and veggies in the sausage fat for enhanced flavor.
- Adding seasonings like smoked paprika and crushed red pepper flakes during the sauce phase for a spicy, smoky punch.
6. Combine Ingredients While Warm
Mix the pasta and sauce while both are still warm to allow them to bind together evenly. Toss gently to avoid breaking the pasta or crushing the sausage pieces.
7. Garnish Thoughtfully
Finish with freshly chopped parsley, an additional sprinkle of Parmesan, and optionally, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes to emphasize the dish’s vibrancy. Serve on warm plates to keep everything hot and inviting.
By following these essential tips we can recreate the bold, creamy, and spicy qualities that define the iconic 54Th Street Rattlesnake Pasta. Every step from ingredient selection to plating enhances the final flavor profile and ensures an exceptional homemade dish.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
To enjoy our 54th Street Rattlesnake Pasta anytime, mastering make-ahead and storage techniques is essential. Here’s how we keep its bold flavors and creamy texture fresh for future meals.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook pasta al dente: Prepare penne or rigatoni just until tender but firm. This prevents overcooking when reheated.
- Cool components separately: Drain pasta and let it cool in a colander. Allow sausage, vegetables, and Alfredo sauce to cool in separate containers.
- Combine just before serving: For freshest flavor and texture, mix pasta, sauce, sausage, and vegetables right before reheating.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage preserves the spicy sausage and creamy Alfredo’s vibrant taste.
| Item | Storage Container | Refrigeration Time | Freezing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooked Pasta | Airtight container | Up to 3 days | Up to 2 months |
| Alfredo Sauce | Airtight container | Up to 3 days | Up to 1 month |
| Sausage & Veggies | Airtight container | Up to 3 days | Up to 2 months |
| Combined Dish | Airtight container | Up to 2 days | Not recommended |
Reheating Instructions
- Stovetop reheating: Gently warm sauce with sausage and veggies over medium-low heat, stirring often. Add pasta last to heat through and prevent mushiness.
- Microwave method: Place combined pasta and sauce in microwave-safe dish. Cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid or paper towel. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between for even warming.
- Avoid overheating: Overheating breaks the creamy sauce and overcooks pasta, dulling flavors and texture.
Freezing Tips
- Portion the sauce and sausage-vegetable mix separately from pasta.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Upon reheating, combine all components gently to retain the dish’s signature creaminess and heat.
By following these make-ahead and storage instructions, our 54th Street Rattlesnake Pasta stays flavorful, creamy, and perfectly spicy — even days after cooking.
Conclusion
Bringing the bold flavors of 54th Street’s Rattlesnake Pasta into our own kitchens is easier than we might think. With the right ingredients, tools, and a bit of preparation, we can enjoy this creamy, spicy dish anytime we want.
Taking the time to focus on each step—from cooking the pasta perfectly to crafting that rich Alfredo sauce—makes all the difference. And don’t forget the finishing touches; presentation and garnishes elevate the experience even more.
By following these tips and techniques, we’re set to create a memorable meal that captures the essence of this beloved classic. Let’s get cooking and savor every bite of our homemade Rattlesnake Pasta!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes 54th Street Rattlesnake Pasta special?
54th Street Rattlesnake Pasta is known for its bold, spicy sausage combined with fresh vegetables and a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a hearty and satisfying dish.
What ingredients do I need to make Rattlesnake Pasta at home?
You’ll need pasta (penne or rigatoni), spicy Italian sausage, green bell pepper, jalapeño, garlic, butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garnishes like parsley and crushed red pepper flakes.
What equipment is essential for preparing this dish?
A large pot for boiling pasta, a skillet for cooking sausage and sauce, and a colander to drain pasta are essential. Optional tools include a garlic press and grater.
How do I prepare the ingredients before cooking?
Chop vegetables and sausage uniformly, mince garlic, and boil salted water for pasta. Cooking times for penne or rigatoni should be followed to cook the pasta al dente.
How is the Alfredo sauce for the Rattlesnake Pasta made?
Melt butter, sauté garlic briefly, whisk in heavy cream, and gradually add Parmesan cheese. Season for a spicy kick and stir until the sauce reaches your desired creamy consistency.
What is the best way to combine all the components?
Sear the sausage, sauté vegetables in the rendered fat, prepare the sauce separately, then toss cooked pasta with sauce, sausage, and vegetables to coat everything well.
Any tips for plating and serving the Rattlesnake Pasta?
Use warm plates, twirl pasta neatly, distribute sausage and veggies evenly, and spoon sauce around the edges. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan for a vibrant, appealing look.
How can I ensure the pasta holds flavor and texture when reheated?
Cook pasta al dente, cool components separately, store in airtight containers, and reheat gently to avoid breaking sauce emulsion and maintain creamy texture.
Can I prepare Rattlesnake Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, by cooking and cooling ingredients separately, then combining before serving. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
What type of pasta works best with Rattlesnake Pasta?
Penne or rigatoni are ideal as their tubular shapes hold the creamy Alfredo sauce well, enhancing every bite with flavor.