Description
This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish combining tender shrimp, juicy steak, and a rich, spicy Alfredo sauce. Perfectly seasoned with Cajun spices and complemented by fettuccine or penne, it’s a mouthwatering and indulgent meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Protein:
-
8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
-
8 oz steak (ribeye, sirloin, or filet), sliced into strips
-
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (divided)
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
1 tablespoon butter
For the Pasta:
-
8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
-
1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
-
3 tablespoons butter
-
4 cloves garlic, minced
-
1½ cups heavy cream
-
1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
-
½ teaspoon black pepper
-
½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional, for extra spice)
-
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
-
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For Garnish:
-
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
-
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Instructions
-
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning later.
-
Prepare the Protein:
-
In a small bowl, toss the shrimp and steak strips with ½ tablespoon Cajun seasoning.
-
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips and cook until browned and cooked through, about 3–4 minutes. Remove the steak and set it aside.
-
In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside with the steak.
-
-
Make the Alfredo Sauce:
-
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
-
Pour in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, remaining ½ tablespoon Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
-
Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
-
-
Combine the Pasta, Protein, and Sauce:
-
Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and steak back into the skillet. Toss everything together until evenly coated in the Alfredo sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
-
-
Garnish and Serve:
-
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and shredded Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
-
Notes
-
For a spicier kick, add more Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
-
If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with milk or use a lighter cream.
- The dish pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American