This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo is a rich, creamy pasta dish that combines tender, juicy steak, plump shrimp, and perfectly seasoned Cajun spices. The savory alfredo sauce ties everything together for an irresistible meal that’s perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight dinner. With a blend of bold flavors, this hearty dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Serve it with crusty garlic bread or a simple salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Steak and Shrimp
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the steak pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the steak to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and a little more Cajun seasoning.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the steak.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and Cajun seasoning, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the alfredo sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Return the cooked steak and shrimp to the skillet, stirring to combine and heat everything through.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve the Cajun shrimp and steak alfredo warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy!
Cook Notes & Tips
- Pasta Choice: Fettuccine works best for this dish, but you can use any pasta you prefer. Penne, linguine, or even spaghetti would be great alternatives.
- Cajun Seasoning: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your spice preference. If you like it spicier, add a bit more.
- Cooking Steak: For the most tender steak, cook it to medium-rare or medium. Overcooking can make the steak chewy.
Recipe Variations
- Chicken Alfredo: Substitute the steak with boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a chicken and shrimp version.
- Vegetable Additions: Add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added vegetables and flavor.
- Seafood Lovers: Add scallops or use more shrimp for a seafood-only version of this alfredo.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the steak and shrimp ahead of time. Reheat gently in the sauce when ready to serve to avoid overcooking.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Q: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream? A: You can use whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For a thicker consistency, add 1 tablespoon of flour when cooking the garlic.
This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo is a rich and satisfying dish that brings together bold Cajun flavors, tender steak, and plump shrimp in a creamy alfredo sauce. Perfect for a special dinner or whenever you’re craving something indulgent, this pasta dish is sure to impress. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad, and enjoy every bite of this delicious, restaurant-quality meal made right at home!
