Imagine diving into a plate of Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta that’s so creamy it could make a cloud weep with joy. The aroma wafts through your kitchen like a fragrant hug from a Southern grandmother who knows all your favorite dishes. This dish doesn’t just tickle your taste buds; it throws them a wild party where they dance the night away! It’s the type of meal you dream about on a Monday morning when you’re staring down the barrel of yet another workweek.
I still remember the first time I made this dish for my friends during a game night. As soon as they took their first bite, they looked at me as if I had just revealed the secret to happiness. Spoiler alert: it was actually just this pasta. Perfect for date nights or cozy gatherings, this dish promises an explosion of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds—and possibly thirds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is easy to whip up on a weeknight after work
- Its bold flavor profile combines spicy Cajun seasoning with creamy alfredo sauce
- The visual appeal of colorful shrimp and juicy steak makes it a showstopper on any table
- It’s versatile enough to be served as a main course or fancy side dish at gatherings
I once made this dish for my in-laws, and let’s just say it earned me some serious brownie points—along with an uninvited request for seconds!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fettuccine Pasta: Fresh fettuccine works wonderfully but dried pasta is fine too; just follow package instructions.
- Shrimp: Use large shrimp, preferably deveined; fresh or frozen will both do the trick.
- Steak: A tender cut like sirloin or ribeye adds great flavor; season well before cooking.
- Cajun Seasoning: You can buy premade or mix your own blend using paprika, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
- Heavy Cream: Opt for heavy cream for that rich texture; half-and-half won’t yield the same luxurious sauce.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor; avoid jarred garlic if you can.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parm adds richness; be generous when adding to your sauce!
- Green Onions: For garnish, these add freshness and color to your finished dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt some butter. Add minced garlic followed by shrimp seasoned with Cajun seasoning. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque.
Cook the Steak: Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add sliced steak seasoned with salt and pepper. Sear until cooked to your liking—around 4-5 minutes for medium rare.
Create the Sauce: To the skillet, add heavy cream along with more Cajun seasoning. Stir well while bringing it to a simmer; allow it to thicken slightly.
Toss Everything Together: Add cooked fettuccine back into the skillet along with sautéed shrimp and grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together until evenly coated in that creamy goodness.
Garnish & Serve!: Plate your delectable creation and garnish with chopped green onions for that pop of color. Enjoy while hot!
And there you have it—Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta that’ll make you feel like a culinary superstar!
You Must Know
- This delightful Cajun shrimp and steak Alfredo pasta strikes the perfect balance between spicy and creamy
- Each bite bursts with flavor, making it a family favorite
- The aromas of garlic and herbs wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting for dinner
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the steak to lock in juices, then cook the shrimp while boiling the pasta. Finally, combine everything with the creamy Alfredo sauce for ultimate flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. Customize the spice level according to your taste preferences.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked shrimp, aim for a bright pink color; overcooked shrimp turn rubbery quickly
- Let steak rest after cooking to keep it juicy
- When reheating, avoid high heat to prevent separation of sauce
Creating this Cajun shrimp and steak Alfredo pasta was a hit at my last dinner party—everyone raved about how delicious it was!
FAQ
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply substitute shrimp and steak with mushrooms and tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.
What type of pasta works best?
Fettuccine is traditional, but any pasta shape you love can work wonderfully here.
How can I adjust the spice level?
Add more Cajun seasoning for extra heat or use less if you prefer milder flavors.
Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is a decadent dish that combines succulent shrimp and tender steak in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- Fettuccine Pasta
- Large Shrimp (deveined)
- Tender Steak (sirloin or ribeye)
- Cajun Seasoning
- Heavy Cream
- Fresh Garlic
- Grated Parmesan Cheese
- Green Onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic, then add shrimp seasoned with Cajun seasoning. Cook until shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp from skillet. Add sliced steak seasoned with salt and pepper to the same skillet. Sear for 4-5 minutes or until cooked to your liking.
- Stir in heavy cream and additional Cajun seasoning into the skillet. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked fettuccine, sautéed shrimp, and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
- Plate and garnish with chopped green onions before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
