Description
Cajun Steak & Shrimp Alfredo Pasta
This creamy and indulgent Alfredo pasta is loaded with tender Cajun-spiced steak bites and juicy shrimp, tossed in a rich Parmesan cream sauce for the ultimate surf & turf experience!
Ingredients:
For the Cajun Steak Bites:
1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cubed
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp butter
For the Cajun Shrimp:
½ lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined
1 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp lemon juice
For the Alfredo Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
For the Pasta:
8 oz fettuccine
1 tbsp chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Boil fettuccine in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sear the Cajun Steak Bites:
Toss steak cubes with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Heat a skillet over high heat and sear steak bites for 2-3 minutes per side.
Add butter and toss to coat. Remove from heat.
Cook the Cajun Shrimp:
In the same skillet, heat butter & olive oil over medium heat.
Add shrimp, Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink.
Finish with lemon juice.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
Add heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring until thick.
Combine & Serve:
Toss the cooked fettuccine in the Alfredo sauce.
Top with Cajun steak bites and shrimp.
Garnish with fresh parsley & extra Parmesan.
Enjoy this bold, creamy, and indulgent surf & turf pasta!
Would you like a spicier version or a side dish suggestion?
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed sequence for perfect results. First, prep all ingredients: cube steak, peel shrimp, mince garlic, and grate Parmesan. Start boiling water for pasta. While it heats, season steak. Cook pasta to al dente, then drain. In a large skillet, sear steak over high heat to develop a crust, then remove. In the same pan, cook shrimp until just pink. Set shrimp aside with steak. For the sauce, use a clean saucepan to melt butter, sauté garlic briefly, then add cream, broth, and cheese. Simmer until slightly thickened. Finally, combine pasta, sauce, and proteins in the large skillet to warm everything together before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this rich pasta immediately for the best texture. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up extra sauce. For a wine pairing, choose a buttery Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir. If serving for a dinner party, pre-set plates and garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges for a bright, fresh finish.
How-to Summary
This dish involves three main components cooked separately and combined. Boil fettuccine. Sear Cajun-seasoned steak bites. Sauté Cajun-seasoned shrimp in the same pan. Prepare a simple Alfredo sauce with garlic, cream, broth, and Parmesan. Toss everything together and garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, sirloin and ribeye are recommended for tenderness and flavor, but flank or skirt steak work well if sliced thinly against the grain after cooking.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
Use a mild Cajun seasoning blend or make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme, omitting cayenne pepper.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
You can season the steak and shrimp a few hours ahead. The sauce is best made fresh, but can be gently reheated, adding a splash of cream if it thickens too much.
What’s the best substitute for heavy cream?
For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. Simmer it longer to reduce.
How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?
Avoid overcooking. Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, which typically takes 2-3 minutes per side over medium heat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp, which makes them tough.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan from a canister, which doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated.
- Crowding the pan when searing steak, which steams the meat instead of creating a flavorful crust.
- Adding the Parmesan cheese to a boiling sauce, which can cause it to clump. Let the sauce simmer gently off the heat when adding cheese.
- Underseasoning. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning after combining all elements.
Conclusion
This Cajun Steak & Shrimp Alfredo Pasta is a show-stopping meal that masterfully combines surf and turf with a luxurious, creamy sauce. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality dish at home. Its bold flavors and satisfying richness make it perfect for a special occasion or an impressive weeknight dinner. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!