Hello, Flavor Seekers!
Craving something hearty, creamy, and packed with bold flavors? Look no further than this Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta. This dish combines tender, juicy steak bites, plump, succulent shrimp, and a luscious Alfredo sauce with a Cajun kick, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta.
The smoky spice of Cajun seasoning paired with the rich, creamy Alfredo creates a flavor explosion that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two or a show-stopping centerpiece for a family gathering, this recipe brings a restaurant-quality meal straight to your table.
You don’t need to be a culinary expert to whip up this crowd-pleaser. It’s surprisingly simple to make and will have everyone reaching for seconds. Ready to dive into this plate of irresistible goodness?
A Quick Glance at the Recipe
Creamy Alfredo pasta loaded with Cajun-seasoned shrimp and steak, perfect for satisfying your cravings for bold, indulgent flavors.
My Cajun Alfredo Story
The first time I tried this dish, it was in a bustling New Orleans restaurant, and I was immediately hooked. Recreating it at home brought the same magic to my kitchen, and now it’s a family favorite for special occasions—or whenever we need a little spice in our lives.
Why You’ll Love Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta
What Makes It Special:
- Rich and Creamy: A velvety Alfredo sauce balances the bold Cajun spices.
- Surf and Turf Twist: Shrimp and steak in one dish? Yes, please!
- Packed with Flavor: Smoky, spicy, and savory in every bite.
- Easy to Make: Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.
Cuisine:
Fusion – Cajun and Italian
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese won’t melt as smoothly.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: It will soak up the sauce without becoming mushy.
- Prep Ahead: Season the steak and shrimp ahead of time for more flavor.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the steak and shrimp in batches if needed.
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein Swap: Try chicken, scallops, or even sausage instead of steak or shrimp.
- Vegetarian Option: Use sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers as a substitute for meat.
- Lighter Sauce: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
Make It Healthier
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
- Swap heavy cream for evaporated milk or a plant-based alternative.
- Reduce the Parmesan cheese for fewer calories.
A Creamy Goodbye
This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is everything you want in a meal—luxurious, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. With its perfect blend of spice and creaminess, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who takes a bite. So grab your skillet and indulge in this irresistible dish tonight!
Relevant Categories
Pasta, Seafood, Dinner Recipes
Tags
Cajun Pasta, Alfredo Sauce, Shrimp and Steak, Surf and Turf, Comfort Food
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them at the end to avoid overcooking. - What type of steak is best?
Tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or filet work best. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but keep the sauce separate and reheat gently to avoid curdling. - What pasta works best with Alfredo?
Fettuccine, linguine, or even penne are great choices. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. - Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. - Can I make this less spicy?
Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or skip the extra Cajun seasoning in the sauce. - What sides pair well with this?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables are excellent choices. - Can I use jarred Alfredo sauce?
While homemade is best, jarred sauce can be a quick substitute. - What’s a good wine pairing?
A crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors perfectly.
Enjoy every creamy, spicy bite! 🥘🍤🥩
PrintCajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta
Description
Craving something hearty, creamy, and packed with bold flavors? Look no further than this Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta.
Ingredients
For the Cajun Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Steak and Shrimp:
- 8 oz (225 g) steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 oz (225 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional, for extra spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340 g) fettuccine or linguine, cooked according to package instructions
Garnish:
- Chopped parsley
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cajun Seasoning
- Mix all the Cajun seasoning ingredients in a small bowl. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the steak pieces with half the Cajun seasoning. Sear them in the skillet for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil.
- Season the shrimp with the rest of the Cajun seasoning and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the skillet.
- Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add a pinch of Cajun seasoning for extra flavor, if desired.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Toss the cooked pasta in the Alfredo sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Gently fold in the shrimp and steak.
Step 6: Serve
- Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with parsley and Parmesan, and serve immediately.