Name: Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 8 ounces penne pasta; 1 pound large shrimp, raw, deveined, tail removed; 1 teaspoon blackened seasoning; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 pound top sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 teaspoon blackened seasoning; ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter; 1 small yellow onion, diced (about ½ cup); 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; 2 cups (476 g) heavy whipping cream; 2 cups (200 g) parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Parsley, chopped

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Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is the perfect fusion of bold Cajun spices and rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. This dish combines tender steak cubes and juicy shrimp, both seasoned with blackened seasoning to add a smoky, spicy kick that complements the silky Parmesan cream sauce. The penne pasta holds onto the sauce beautifully, making every bite decadent and satisfying. It’s a dish that elevates traditional Alfredo with a Cajun twist, ideal for those who love a bit of heat balanced by creamy comfort.

This recipe brings together the best of land and sea with robust flavors, creating a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. The steak is seared to perfection, while the shrimp cooks quickly in a lightly seasoned oil, keeping their natural sweetness intact. The sauce is rich but not overwhelming, with garlic and onion providing aromatic depth. Garnished with fresh parsley, this pasta is as visually appealing as it is delicious, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold and Creamy Flavor Combination

The Cajun blackened seasoning gives the shrimp and steak a smoky spice that perfectly contrasts with the creamy Alfredo sauce.

2. Balanced Surf and Turf

Combining shrimp and steak offers a satisfying mix of textures and flavors in one dish.

3. Simple Ingredients, Gourmet Taste

Uses common pantry staples but tastes like a high-end restaurant meal.

4. Quick and Easy to Prepare

Perfect for busy weeknights without compromising on flavor or presentation.

5. Versatile and Crowd-Pleasing

Ideal for entertaining or family dinners, and easy to customize with your favorite pasta shapes or vegetables.

Ingredients

Penne pasta
Large raw shrimp, deveined, tails removed
Blackened seasoning
Vegetable oil
Top sirloin steak, cut into cubes
Unsalted butter
Yellow onion, diced
Garlic, minced
Heavy whipping cream
Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Kosher salt
Black pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped

Variations

Add Vegetables: Toss in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
Use Different Protein: Substitute steak with chicken breast or skip meat altogether for a shrimp-only Alfredo.
Spice Level: Adjust the blackened seasoning to increase or decrease the heat according to your taste.
Pasta Choice: Swap penne with fettuccine, linguine, or any pasta you prefer.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives for a creamy texture without dairy.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

Toss shrimp with blackened seasoning. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and keep warm.

Step 3

Season steak cubes with blackened seasoning. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add steak cubes and sear for about 3-4 minutes until browned but still tender. Remove steak and set aside.

Step 4

In the same skillet, add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, blackened seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 6

Add cooked pasta, shrimp, and steak back into the skillet. Toss everything together to coat evenly with the sauce.

Step 7

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best creamy texture and flavor.
Don’t overcook the shrimp or steak; both should remain tender and juicy.
If the sauce is too thick, thin it with a splash of pasta water or milk.
Let the blackened seasoning toast slightly in the pan for enhanced smoky flavor.
For a richer sauce, finish with a small pat of butter stirred in at the end.

How to Serve

Serve this Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley for color and freshness. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to balance the richness. A chilled glass of white wine or light beer complements the spicy creaminess beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the pasta to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the shrimp and steak.

Reheating

Reheat on medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwave reheating to maintain texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

2. What cut of steak works best?

Top sirloin is ideal for tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or filet mignon can also be used.

3. How spicy is the dish?

The blackened seasoning adds moderate heat, but you can adjust to taste or omit for milder flavor.

4. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.

5. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, make the Alfredo sauce ahead and gently reheat before adding cooked proteins and pasta.

6. What if I don’t have blackened seasoning?

Use a mix of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper as a substitute.

7. How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?

Cook on low heat and add cheese gradually, stirring continuously.

8. Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely, add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra flavor.

9. What can I serve with this pasta?

A fresh salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables work well.

10. How do I keep shrimp from overcooking?

Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque; they cook quickly and continue to cook slightly after removing from heat.

Conclusion

Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is a deliciously indulgent meal that brings together smoky Cajun flavors and creamy Italian sauce in perfect harmony. Its rich taste and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for impressing guests or enjoying a comforting dinner at home. Whether you’re a fan of bold spices or creamy pasta dishes, this recipe offers the best of both worlds with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.