If you’re craving something rich, flavorful, and downright impressive, the Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe is your new go-to comfort dish. Combining succulent, spice-kissed shrimp and tender steak with a velvety homemade Alfredo sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe brings together the best of surf and turf in a creamy, spicy dish that’s guaranteed to become a favorite at any dinner table. Every bite bursts with bold Cajun flair that wakes up your taste buds and leaves you wanting more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, yet each plays a crucial role in creating a well-balanced dish full of texture, flavor, and color that really sings on the plate.
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta: Choose your favorite pasta shape for the perfect sauce-holding texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For a flavorful sear on the steak and shrimp without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (divided): The key to that signature spicy kick that defines this recipe.
- 8 oz sirloin steak (sliced thin): Tender, lean, and perfect for quick cooking and soaking up all those flavors.
- 8 oz large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Adds a fresh, succulent seafood element that pairs beautifully with the steak.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce and helps meld all the flavors together.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with aromatic depth and a gentle bite.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream: The star of the Alfredo sauce, delivering creamy indulgence.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts umami and tang, thickening the sauce for a luscious finish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all other ingredients.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and herbal brightness.
How to Make Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook Your Pasta Perfectly
Start by boiling your fettuccine or penne pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente, meaning it should still have a slight bite to it. This texture is important because it will soak up the Alfredo sauce just right without turning mushy. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside to be combined later.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak
Season your thinly sliced sirloin steak with half of the Cajun seasoning to infuse it with that beautiful smoky, spicy flair. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet, then sear the steak slices for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You want a nice caramelization on the outside while keeping the inside tender. Remove the steak and set it aside once cooked to your liking.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Using the same skillet to preserve all those delicious browned bits, add the shrimp and sprinkle with the remaining half of the Cajun seasoning. Cook the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque, signaling they’re perfectly cooked. Then, remove them from the pan and keep them warm with the steak.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Cajun Alfredo Sauce
Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic just until fragrant—about a minute—so it doesn’t burn but releases its full aroma. Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining Cajun seasoning to create a thick, flavorful sauce. Let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens slightly and becomes silky smooth.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Steak, and Shrimp
Add the cooked pasta directly into the creamy sauce, tossing to coat each strand or piece with that rich Cajun-Alfredo goodness. Return the seared steak and shrimp to the skillet, folding everything together gently to heat through evenly. This step melds the surf and turf flavors into one harmonious, mouthwatering dish.
How to Serve Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is a simple yet beautiful touch that brightens the plate and adds a hint of herbaceous freshness that balances the richness of the sauce wonderfully. You might also consider a light dusting of extra Parmesan or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to cut through the creaminess if you prefer a bit of tang.
Side Dishes
To complement the bold flavors of this dish, serve it alongside a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. Garlic bread or crusty French bread is also fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce, turning every last bite into pure satisfaction.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe in individual cast iron skillets or rustic bowls to keep it warm longer and impress your guests with a homey, restaurant-quality presentation. Garnish with lemon wedges for a pop of color and an extra citrus zing that guests can customize to their liking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, place them in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the sauce is rich and creamy, it’s best eaten within a short time frame to enjoy its fresh flavors and ideal texture.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal because Alfredo sauce can separate when thawed. If you do freeze, use a freezer-safe container and expect to consume it within one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and be prepared to re-emulsify the sauce with a little cream or milk upon reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid scorching. Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce as needed and restore its creamy texture. Avoid microwaving without stirring as it might cause uneven heating and separation of the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked steak or shrimp in this recipe?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked steak or shrimp can speed up the cooking process. Just add them during the final step to warm through gently so they don’t overcook and become tough.
How spicy is the Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe?
The spice level is moderate and entirely customizable based on how much Cajun seasoning you use. Feel free to adjust it to be milder or spicier depending on your preference.
What’s the best pasta type for this dish?
Fettuccine and penne are both excellent choices because their shapes hold the creamy sauce well. However, feel free to use any pasta you love or have on hand.
Can I substitute heavy cream for a lighter option?
Yes, you can substitute half-and-half to make a lighter sauce, though it may be less rich and creamy. Just keep an eye on the sauce thickness while cooking and adjust accordingly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe can be made gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free as well.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special yet is surprisingly simple to make, perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself on a weeknight. The combination of creamy, spicy sauce with tender steak and shrimp creates a flavor explosion that’s truly unforgettable. I can’t wait for you to try it and fall in love with this delicious surf and turf pasta as much as I have!
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Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired
Description
This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is a rich and creamy dish combining the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with tender sirloin steak and succulent shrimp. Tossed with perfectly cooked fettuccine in a decadent Parmesan cream sauce, this surf and turf pasta offers a spicy twist on classic Alfredo that’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or special dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 8 oz sirloin steak, sliced thin
- 8 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasonings and Fat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine or penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Season Steak and Shrimp: Divide the Cajun seasoning in half. Sprinkle half evenly over the sliced sirloin steak and the other half over the peeled shrimp.
- Sear Steak: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm the olive oil. Add the steak slices and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side until cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: Using the same skillet, cook the shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the steak.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly.
- Toss Pasta and Protein: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well to coat every strand. Return the seared steak and cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently mix to combine and heat through evenly.
- Serve: Plate the pasta immediately and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of Cajun seasoning to your taste preferences.
- For a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- To reduce cooking time, use pre-cooked steak or shrimp.
- Best served immediately to enjoy the creaminess and freshness of the sauce.
