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
Scale
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.
