Introduction
When it comes to indulgent, restaurant-quality meals that are simple to prepare at home, few dishes can rival a perfectly cooked steak and shrimp Alfredo. This Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is the ideal combination of rich, creamy flavors and smoky, savory heat from the Cajun seasoning. This dish is perfect for a special dinner, an elegant date night, or a family gathering. The combination of succulent shrimp, tender steak, and a luscious Alfredo sauce is guaranteed to leave everyone craving more. Not only does it taste amazing, but it’s also relatively simple to make, taking just 40 minutes from start to finish!
In this article, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, preparation method, and tips for creating a memorable Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo that is sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef looking for an easy yet delicious dish, this recipe will be your go-to comfort food.
Ingredients with Quantity
To make this Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, you’ll need the following ingredients. Each component adds a unique flavor to the dish, balancing the richness of the creamy sauce with the zestiness of the Cajun seasoning and the savory goodness of steak and shrimp.
Steak and Shrimp:
- 2 (6-8 oz) steaks (sirloin or ribeye): The key to a flavorful steak is choosing the right cut. Sirloin or ribeye steaks work best for this recipe as they have a good balance of tenderness and flavor.
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Large shrimp are perfect for grilling or pan-frying. Their natural sweetness complements the spiciness of the Cajun seasoning.
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning: This is the secret to the bold and spicy flavor that defines this dish. The Cajun seasoning gives both the steak and shrimp a smoky, spicy kick that pairs perfectly with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- 2 tbsp olive oil (divided): Olive oil is used to sear the steak and cook the shrimp, adding a light flavor while allowing the proteins to brown and develop flavor.
Alfredo Sauce:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta: Fettuccine works best in this recipe because its broad, flat noodles help hold the creamy Alfredo sauce. It’s the perfect base for steak and shrimp.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter: The butter creates a rich base for the Alfredo sauce and gives it a silky texture.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a savory depth of flavor to the sauce, balancing the richness of the cream.
- 2 cups heavy cream: The heavy cream is the heart of the Alfredo sauce, giving it its characteristic smooth and rich consistency.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor to the sauce. Always opt for freshly grated cheese, as it melts better and adds more flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These seasonings are essential for enhancing the flavors and balancing the creaminess of the sauce.
Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley: A garnish of fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also provides a subtle herbal note that complements the dish’s bold flavors.
Directions and Preparation Method
Making Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a straightforward process that involves cooking the steak, shrimp, pasta, and Alfredo sauce, then combining everything into a delicious, creamy masterpiece. Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked dish every time.
1. Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the fettuccine according to the package instructions. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and set it aside. Be sure to save a little bit of pasta water in case you need to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
2. Season the Steak and Shrimp
While the pasta is cooking, season both the steak and shrimp. Rub the Cajun seasoning evenly on both sides of the steaks and the shrimp. The seasoning should coat the proteins liberally to ensure every bite is full of flavor.
3. Cook the Steak
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the steaks. Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side, adjusting the time based on how well-done you prefer your steak. For a medium-rare steak, aim for 3 minutes per side. Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.
4. Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Heat it over medium-high heat, and then add the shrimp. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. Once done, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
5. Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly to combine. Once the cream is incorporated, gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a little bit of the reserved pasta water.
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked fettuccine into the Alfredo sauce, ensuring it’s fully coated with the creamy mixture. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add more pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
7. Assemble the Dish
Plate the pasta by dividing it into four servings. Top each serving with slices of the blackened steak and cooked shrimp. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of fresh flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with other types of pasta, such as penne, spaghetti, or linguine. Just keep in mind that the sauce might cling better to flat pasta like fettuccine.
Can I make this dish without the Cajun seasoning? While Cajun seasoning gives this dish its signature spicy flavor, you can certainly adjust the heat level or leave it out entirely. If you prefer a milder dish, try using Italian seasoning or paprika as an alternative.
Can I use chicken instead of steak or shrimp? Yes, chicken is a great alternative to both steak and shrimp. Simply replace the steak with boneless chicken breasts or thighs and cook them the same way, seasoning them with Cajun spice. For the shrimp, you can substitute with chicken or another protein of your choice.
Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet? This dish is not low-carb due to the fettuccine pasta. However, you can make a low-carb version by replacing the pasta with zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles, which are lower in carbs and calories.
How can I make this dish spicier? To increase the spiciness, you can add more Cajun seasoning or incorporate some red pepper flakes into the Alfredo sauce. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy extra heat.
Conclusion
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a perfect balance of bold flavors, creamy sauce, and satisfying textures. The smoky spiciness from the Cajun seasoning on the steak and shrimp perfectly complements the creamy richness of the Alfredo sauce, creating a dish that’s indulgent yet simple enough to prepare in under 40 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. With minimal preparation time and ingredients that are easy to find, this meal is a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful dishes.
By following the easy-to-understand directions, you can create a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. Enjoy your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo with your loved ones, and feel free to customize it to suit your tastes. Whether you want a spicier version or a milder, more comforting dish, this recipe has the flexibility to suit any palate. Happy cooking!