Description
Surf and Turf Fettuccine Alfredo
Ingredients
For the Steak:
2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (8 oz each)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the Shrimp:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce:
3 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
12 oz fettuccine pasta
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Steak:
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and black pepper.
Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over high heat. Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare (adjust time for desired doneness). Remove from skillet and let rest.
Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Add the shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Assemble the Dish:
Toss the cooked fettuccine in the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated. Plate the pasta.
Slice the rested steak and arrange it over the pasta. Top with cooked shrimp.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and freshly cracked black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy!
This luxurious meal is perfect for a special dinner. Let me know if you’d like tips on customization!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed sequence for a perfectly timed meal. First, start boiling your salted pasta water. While it heats, prep all ingredients: season steaks, peel shrimp, mince garlic, and grate cheese. Begin cooking the pasta. As it boils, sear the steaks in a hot skillet. Once done, set steaks aside to rest—this is crucial for juicy meat. In the same skillet, cook the shrimp quickly. Remove shrimp. Now, make the Alfredo sauce in a separate saucepan. By this time, the pasta should be al dente; drain it. Toss the pasta in the finished sauce. Finally, slice the rested steak and arrange it with the shrimp on the sauced pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this rich dish with complementary sides to balance the meal. A crisp Caesar salad or simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess. For vegetables, roasted asparagus or garlic sautéed spinach are excellent choices. Serve with crusty bread to soak up any extra Alfredo sauce. For wine pairings, a buttery Chardonnay complements the sauce, while a medium-bodied Pinot Noir pairs well with the steak.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook pasta. Sear seasoned steaks; rest. Sauté shrimp in same pan. Create sauce by simmering cream and whisking in Parmesan. Toss pasta with sauce. Top with sliced steak and shrimp. Garnish and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak? Yes. Ribeye offers great marbling and flavor, but filet mignon or New York strip are excellent, leaner options. Adjust cooking time for thickness.
How can I prevent my Alfredo sauce from breaking? Keep the heat on medium-low when adding cheese and whisk constantly. Do not let the sauce boil after adding the Parmesan, as high heat can cause separation.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? You can prep ingredients (grate cheese, mince garlic) ahead, but cook everything fresh for best texture. The sauce is best made just before serving.
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. For a lighter version, use half-and-half.
How do I reheat leftovers without drying out the steak? Reheat pasta and sauce gently in a skillet with a splash of cream. Reheat steak slices separately in a warm oven for a short time to avoid overcooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the shrimp, which makes them rubbery. Remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Adding Parmesan cheese to the sauce on high heat, causing it to clump or separate.
- Slicing the steak immediately after cooking, which releases its juices. Always let it rest for 5-10 minutes.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents and won’t melt as smoothly.
- Not salting the pasta water sufficiently, which is your only chance to season the pasta itself.
Conclusion
This Surf and Turf Fettuccine Alfredo is a show-stopping dish that combines the best of land and sea in a creamy, decadent pasta. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you can execute this restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s perfect for celebrations, date nights, or any occasion that calls for something exceptionally delicious. Remember, the keys to success are proper timing, quality ingredients, and serving it immediately. Enjoy your culinary creation!