Description
Steak and Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo
Ingredients:
8 oz fettuccine pasta
2 steaks (ribeye or sirloin)
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta: Boil the fettuccine pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Steaks: Season the steaks with salt and pepper. In a hot skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the steaks for 4-6 minutes per side (or to your preferred doneness). Remove from the pan and let them rest.
Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens.
Combine with Cheese: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and continue to cook until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Assemble the Dish: Slice the rested steaks into strips. Plate the pasta and top with the shrimp and steak slices. Garnish with fresh parsley for a fresh pop of flavor.
This indulgent dish pairs juicy steak, tender shrimp, and creamy Alfredo sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the perfect meal for a special occasion or anytime you want to treat yourself!
Step-by-Step Guide
For best results, follow this detailed sequence. First, prep all ingredients: chop parsley, mince garlic, grate Parmesan, and pat shrimp and steaks dry. Begin boiling heavily salted water for pasta. As it heats, season steaks generously. Cook pasta 1 minute less than package suggests; it will finish in the sauce. In a large skillet, sear steaks over medium-high heat to develop a crust. Rest steaks under foil for 10 minutes before slicing against the grain. In the same skillet, cook shrimp just until opaque. Remove shrimp, then build the Alfredo sauce by gently cooking garlic in butter, simmering cream, and melting in cheese off the heat to prevent separation.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this rich dish with light, complementary sides. A crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess. For vegetables, try steamed asparagus or roasted broccoli. Garlic bread is classic for soaking up extra sauce. For wine, a full-bodied Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir pairs beautifully. Serve immediately on warmed plates to keep the pasta hot and creamy.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook and drain fettuccine. Sear seasoned steaks in a skillet, then rest. Cook shrimp in the same pan and set aside. In that pan, make Alfredo sauce by cooking garlic in butter, adding cream to simmer, and stirring in Parmesan until smooth. Toss pasta in sauce, then top with sliced steak and shrimp. Garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta? Yes, tagliatelle or pappardelle work well. Avoid short pastas like penne as they don’t hold the sauce as effectively.
How do I prevent the sauce from breaking? Keep the heat low when adding cheese and stir constantly. Remove the skillet from direct heat before incorporating the Parmesan.
Can I prepare any components ahead? You can prep ingredients (chop, grate) and cook the shrimp ahead. Reheat shrimp gently in the sauce. Cook steak and pasta fresh.
What’s the best cut of steak for this dish? Ribeye offers rich flavor, while sirloin is leaner. Flank or skirt steak, sliced thinly, are excellent budget-friendly options.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk and use a leaner cut like sirloin. Increase the proportion of shrimp and vegetables.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp, which makes them rubbery. Remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Adding cheese to sauce that is too hot, causing it to clump instead of melting smoothly.
- Not letting the steak rest before slicing, which results in the loss of flavorful juices.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan, which often contains anti-caking agents that prevent a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Underseasoning the pasta water. It should taste like the sea to properly flavor the noodles.
Conclusion
This Steak and Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo is a show-stopping meal that combines luxurious ingredients into a cohesive, restaurant-quality dish. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can achieve perfect results: tender steak, succulent shrimp, and a velvety, homemade Alfredo sauce. It’s an impressive recipe that is entirely achievable for a home cook, perfect for creating a memorable dining experience. Enjoy the process and the delicious reward.