Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo

This creamy Cajun shrimp and steak Alfredo pasta brings together the perfect balance of rich, spicy, and savory flavors. Every bite offers tender shrimp and juicy steak enveloped in a luscious Alfredo sauce tinged with a bold Cajun kick. It’s a dish that effortlessly satisfies cravings for both comfort and indulgence.

I first made this when I wanted to elevate a simple pasta night for friends and was amazed how quickly the combination became a crowd favorite in our house.

Ingredients You Need

• Fettuccine pasta: delivers the ideal tender yet firm base to soak up the rich sauce opt for good quality semolina for best results
• Fresh shrimp: peeled and deveined for ease of cooking look for firm, translucent flesh free of any odor
• Sirloin or ribeye steak: sliced thinly adds hearty, savory depth that pairs wonderfully with the seafood
• Heavy cream: forms the velvety body of the sauce, creating luxurious smoothness
• Parmesan cheese: grated finely melts effortlessly to enrich the sauce with nutty taste
• Cajun seasoning: blends paprika, cayenne, garlic, and other spices to give the dish its signature smoky heat homemade or store-bought both work well
• Garlic: minced fresh for aromatic base flavor
• Olive oil: to sauté and soften the garlic without overpowering other flavors
• Fresh parsley: chopped as a bright, herbal finish that lightens the richness of the dish

Detailed Cooking Directions

Build The Pasta Base:

Cook fettuccine in well-salted boiling water until al dente, which means tender yet firm to the bite. Drain and set aside to keep warm while preparing the sauce.

Sauté Garlic:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add minced garlic and sauté gently until it releases its fragrance without browning, laying a subtle but important foundation.

Cook Shrimp and Steak:

Add shrimp and sliced steak to the skillet. Sprinkle generously with Cajun seasoning and turn frequently. Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Steak should be browned on the outside but still tender inside.

Create Creamy Sauce:

Turn heat down to low and pour in heavy cream. Stir continuously as you sprinkle Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens and becomes silky smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Combine and Garnish:

Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss gently until every strand is coated with the sauce and the seafood and steak are evenly distributed. Finish with a scattering of freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness before serving.

This dish quickly became a celebration staple in my family especially during gatherings when everyone craves a dish that feels gourmet yet comforting. It’s the recipe I reach for when I want to impress with minimal fuss but maximum flavor.

Smart Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on low heat adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s smooth texture. Avoid overheating to prevent the cream from separating. If freezing, freeze only the cooked shrimp and steak separately from the pasta and sauce. Reheat each component separately for best quality.

Ingredient Variations

Swap fettuccine for linguine or even penne to change the pasta texture without losing the dish’s soul. Try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce that still tastes rich. Experiment with seasoning blends by adding a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky twist.

Perfect Pairing Ideas

A crisp Caesar or mixed green salad balances the creaminess with refreshing crunch. Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. An off-dry white wine such as Riesling or Pinot Grigio complements the spice and cream perfectly.

This dish brightens any day with its mix of creamy indulgence and spicy zest. Treat yourself and loved ones to this satisfying and flavorful pasta that always feels like a special occasion without the fuss.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What cut of steak works best for this dish?

Sirloin and ribeye steaks are ideal choices due to their tenderness and flavor, making them well-suited to quick searing alongside shrimp.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

You can easily increase or decrease the Cajun seasoning amount to suit your personal taste, ensuring the dish is mild or spicy as desired.

→ Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter sauce, half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream, resulting in a smoother but less rich texture.

→ How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, usually 2-3 minutes per side, to keep them tender and juicy.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

It’s best served immediately to preserve the creamy sauce and tender textures, but components can be prepped in advance for quicker assembly.