Description
Surf & Turf Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients:
For the Steak:
2 filet mignon or sirloin steaks
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
For the Shrimp:
12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Alfredo Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
300g fettuccine pasta
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions:
Cook the Steak
Season steaks with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare or to your desired doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add olive oil and cook shrimp seasoned with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and tender. Set aside.
Cook the Pasta
Boil fettuccine in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine & Serve
Toss the cooked pasta in the Alfredo sauce. Plate the pasta and top with the steak slices and shrimp.
Garnish & Enjoy
Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve warm.
A luxurious and indulgent dish perfect for a special dinner!
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by preparing all ingredients: season the steaks, peel and devein shrimp, mince garlic, grate Parmesan, and chop parsley. Use a large skillet for efficient cooking. Start by searing the seasoned steaks in hot olive oil. Once cooked to your liking, transfer them to a plate to rest for a full 5 minutes; this keeps them juicy. In the same skillet, add more oil and cook the seasoned shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until just opaque. Remove and set aside. While proteins cook, boil the fettuccine in well-salted water. For the sauce, melt butter in the skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds, then pour in heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer before whisking in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this rich pasta immediately in shallow bowls for the best experience. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For wine, a full-bodied Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir complements both the seafood and steak beautifully. A side of warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra Alfredo sauce.
How-to Summary
To make Surf & Turf Alfredo Pasta: 1) Sear seasoned steak and let it rest. 2) Sauté seasoned shrimp in the same pan. 3) Cook fettuccine al dente. 4) Create Alfredo sauce by simmering butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan. 5) Toss pasta with sauce, then top with sliced steak and shrimp. Garnish with parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak? Yes, ribeye or New York strip work well. Adjust cooking time based on thickness and fat content.
How can I prevent my Alfredo sauce from breaking? Keep the heat on medium-low after adding the cream. Do not let it boil vigorously once the cheese is added, as high heat can cause separation.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? The components are best prepared fresh. The sauce can thicken upon standing; reheating with a splash of cream or pasta water can help restore consistency.
What’s a good substitute for heavy cream? For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half can be used, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. Do not use milk, as it is likely to curdle.
How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked? Shrimp is done when it turns pink and opaque and forms a loose “C” shape. Overcooking makes it rubbery.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not letting the steak rest before slicing, which causes precious juices to run out.
- Overcooking the shrimp, leading to a tough texture.
- Using pre-grated Parmesan cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt as smoothly as freshly grated.
- Adding the Parmesan cheese to a boiling sauce, which can cause it to clump.
- Underseasoning the pasta water; it should taste like the sea to properly flavor the noodles.
Conclusion
This Surf & Turf Alfredo Pasta combines the best of land and sea in a decadent, creamy sauce. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create an impressive restaurant-quality meal at home. It’s a perfect centerpiece for celebrations, date nights, or any occasion that calls for a truly special and satisfying dish. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!