Description
Steak & Shrimp Alfredo Pasta
“Juicy steak bites and garlic butter shrimp served over creamy, cheesy Alfredo pasta—this surf & turf delight is pure indulgence!”
Ingredients
For the Steak:
1 lb (450g) ribeye or filet mignon, cut into cubes
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp butter
For the Shrimp:
8 large shrimp, peeled & deveined
1 tbsp butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Creamy Alfredo Pasta:
12 oz (340g) fettuccine
3 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
Season steak bites with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear steak for 2-3 minutes per side until browned but still tender. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
Add shrimp, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2 minutes per side until pink.
Drizzle with lemon juice and remove from heat.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
In a new pan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly.
Add Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until thick.
Step 5: Assemble & Serve
Toss the cooked pasta in the Alfredo sauce until fully coated.
Plate the pasta and top with steak bites and shrimp.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Pro Tip: Serve with warm garlic bread and a glass of red wine for the perfect meal!
Step-by-Step Guide
For best results, follow this sequence. First, prep all ingredients: cube steak, peel shrimp, mince garlic, and grate Parmesan. Start boiling water for pasta. While it cooks, sear the seasoned steak bites in a hot skillet, ensuring you don’t overcrowd the pan for a proper crust. Remove steak. In the same pan, cook the shrimp quickly to avoid rubberiness. Set aside. Finally, prepare the Alfredo sauce in a separate pan, whisking constantly to create a smooth, creamy emulsion with the cheese. Combine pasta and sauce, then top with meats.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this rich pasta in shallow bowls. Accompany with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness. For drinks, a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon complements the steak, while a crisp Chardonnay pairs well with the shrimp and cream sauce.
How-to Summary
This dish involves three main components cooked separately and combined. Cook pasta al dente. Sear seasoned steak cubes. Sauté shrimp in garlic butter. Prepare a simple Alfredo sauce with cream, Parmesan, and seasonings. Toss pasta in sauce, then top with steak and shrimp. Garnish and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak? Yes, sirloin or strip steak work well. Avoid very lean cuts like tenderloin for searing, as a little fat adds flavor.
How can I prevent my Alfredo sauce from breaking? Keep the heat low to medium when adding cheese and stir constantly. Remove from heat if it gets too hot. Full-fat cream and freshly grated Parmesan melt best.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep components, but assemble just before serving. Pasta can be cooked and tossed with a bit of oil. Reheat meats and sauce gently, adding a splash of cream to the sauce.
What if I don’t have heavy cream? A combination of whole milk and a bit more butter can work, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. You may need a sprinkle of flour to help it thicken.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp, which makes them tough. Cook just until pink and opaque.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan cheese, which contains anti-caking agents and won’t melt smoothly.
- Crowding the pan when searing steak, which steams the meat instead of creating a flavorful crust.
- Letting the Alfredo sauce boil after adding the cheese, causing it to separate.
- Rinsing the cooked pasta, which removes starch that helps the sauce adhere.
Conclusion
This Steak & Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a luxurious yet approachable surf and turf meal perfect for a special dinner. By managing your timing and avoiding common pitfalls like overcooking the seafood or breaking the sauce, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home. The combination of juicy steak, garlicky shrimp, and rich, creamy pasta is sure to impress. Enjoy the process and the delicious result.