Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Ready in about 105 minutes.
Ingredients
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb beef sirloin steak, thinly sliced
12 oz fettuccine pasta
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions
1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the shrimp and steak with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the sliced steak and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and steak to the skillet, tossing to combine and coat everything in the Alfredo sauce.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Tips & Variations
To ensure juicy shrimp and steak, avoid overcooking them. Cook just until they are cooked through for the best texture. Additionally, marinating the shrimp and steak in the Cajun seasoning for 15-30 minutes before cooking can enhance the flavors. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. This substitution reduces the fat content while still providing a creamy texture. Feel free to add in vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. These additions not only increase the nutritional value of the dish but also add different textures and colors. When cooking the steak, make sure the skillet is hot before adding the meat to get a nice sear on the outside.
Serving & Storage
This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through, adding a splash of milk to the pasta to revive the creaminess. Alternatively, you can reheat the dish in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until thoroughly heated.
FAQs
Can I substitute certain ingredients?
Yes, you can swap the beef sirloin steak for chicken or tofu for a different protein option. You can also use any type of pasta you prefer instead of fettuccine. Additionally, if you prefer a spicier kick, you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce.
How do I prevent common mistakes?
To prevent the Alfredo sauce from curdling, make sure to slowly stir in the Parmesan cheese over low heat until fully melted. Avoid boiling the sauce once the cheese is added. Additionally, if the sauce appears too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of chicken or vegetable broth.
Can I make this ahead or freeze it?
You can make the Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before reheating. However, creamy pasta dishes like this one do not freeze well due to the texture change upon thawing. If you choose to make it ahead, store the pasta and sauce separately to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.
Conclusion
Try this delicious Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta recipe for a flavorful and satisfying meal. The combination of Cajun spices, juicy shrimp, tender steak, and creamy Alfredo sauce will surely become a family favorite. Enjoy!
