Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta

Why You’ll Love Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe

This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate combination of savory and spicy. The creamy Alfredo sauce pairs perfectly with the Cajun-seasoned shrimp and steak, creating an unforgettable flavor profile. The dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also rich in texture, offering a delightful contrast between the tender shrimp, juicy steak, and al dente pasta. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends, making it a go-to recipe for dinner parties or date nights.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fettuccine pasta

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 lb steak (ribeye or sirloin recommended), cut into strips

• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup chicken broth

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water for later use.

2. Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

3. Cook the Steak: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Season the steak strips with the remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

4. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Combine: Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and steak to the skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta and protein are well coated with the creamy Alfredo sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

6. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the shrimp and steak with mushrooms or a combination of your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach.

• Spicier Version: Increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra heat.

• Different Pasta: Swap fettuccine with another pasta like penne or rigatoni if you prefer.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture if needed.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with other types of pasta like penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti.

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked through?

Shrimp is fully cooked when it turns pink and opaque. It usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side depending on the size of the shrimp.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

What kind of steak is best for this dish?

Ribeye or sirloin steaks work best for this recipe due to their tenderness and flavor. However, any cut of steak can be used.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components (shrimp, steak, sauce) ahead of time and assemble everything when ready to serve.

How can I adjust the level of spice in this recipe?

You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning, or you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or another dairy-free cream alternative and use a dairy-free cheese for the Alfredo sauce.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker Alfredo sauce, simmer it a bit longer to allow the liquid to reduce. You can also add more Parmesan cheese for added creaminess.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

For a low-carb version, you can replace the fettuccine with zucchini noodles or other low-carb pasta alternatives.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not recommended to freeze pasta dishes with creamy sauces, as the sauce may separate upon reheating. However, you can freeze the shrimp and steak separately and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.

Conclusion

Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish that combines the best of seafood and steak, all wrapped up in a creamy, spiced Alfredo sauce. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or a special event, this dish is guaranteed to impress. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right at home.