Description
Steak and Shrimp Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients:
For the Steak and Shrimp:
2 ribeye steaks (8 oz each)
1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce:
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
12 oz fettuccine or linguine
1/4 cup pasta water (reserved)
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
Prepare the Steak:
Season the steaks with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steaks for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or adjust cooking time for desired doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Set aside.
Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Add reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency, if needed.
Combine:
Toss the cooked pasta with the Alfredo sauce until well coated. Plate the pasta, then top with steak slices and shrimp.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a decadent meal.
This indulgent surf-and-turf Alfredo pasta is perfect for date night or a special occasion. Enjoy!
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep & Pasta: Season steaks and peel shrimp. Boil pasta in salted water. Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of the starchy pasta water.
2. Sear the Steak: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear steaks without moving to develop a crust. Cook to desired doneness, then transfer to a plate to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Sauté the Shrimp: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and garlic, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
4. Create the Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic briefly. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in Parmesan until fully melted and sauce is smooth. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
5. Final Assembly: Add the drained pasta directly to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat. Use the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick. Divide pasta among plates and top with sliced steak and shrimp.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this rich dish immediately on warmed plates. Complement it with a light, crisp side to balance the decadence. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, roasted asparagus, or garlic bread are excellent choices. For wine, a full-bodied Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir pairs beautifully.
How-to Summary
To make Steak and Shrimp Alfredo: Cook pasta and reserve water. Sear seasoned steak and set aside to rest. Sauté shrimp in the same pan. Make Alfredo sauce by simmering cream, butter, garlic, and Parmesan. Toss pasta with sauce, thinning with pasta water if needed. Top pasta with sliced steak and shrimp. Garnish and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes. While ribeye is flavorful, filet mignon offers tenderness, or sirloin is a more economical choice. Adjust searing time based on thickness.
How can I prevent my Alfredo sauce from breaking or becoming grainy?
Keep the heat low when adding cheese and whisk constantly. Do not let the sauce boil after adding Parmesan. Using freshly grated cheese (not pre-shredded) ensures a smoother melt.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time?
You can prep ingredients (chop garlic, grate cheese) and cook the steak/shrimp 1-2 hours ahead. Reheat gently in the skillet. The sauce and pasta are best made fresh.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. Microwave reheating can cause the sauce to separate.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw frozen shrimp completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water. Pat them very dry before cooking to ensure a good sear.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if left on heat too long. Remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Bags of pre-shredded Parmesan contain anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting, leading to a grainy sauce.
- Skipping the Pasta Water: The starchy reserved water is crucial for helping the sauce cling to the pasta and adjusting consistency without making it watery.
- Not Resting the Steak: Slicing the steak immediately causes the juices to run out. Letting it rest ensures juicy, flavorful meat.
Conclusion
This Steak and Shrimp Alfredo Pasta combines the best of land and sea in a luxuriously creamy dish. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an impressive restaurant-quality meal at home. Perfect for a celebration or a memorable date night, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that balances elegant flavors with straightforward cooking techniques. Enjoy the delicious results of your efforts.