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Cajun shrimp and steak alfredo pasta

Cajun shrimp and steak alfredo pasta recipe

This Cajun shrimp and steak alfredo pasta recipe combines tender sirloin steak and succulent shrimp with a rich, creamy alfredo sauce infused with bold Cajun seasonings. The dish features perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta that serves as the foundation for this protein-rich, flavorful meal. With a prep time of 15 minutes and cook time of 25 minutes, this recipe serves 4 people and delivers restaurant-quality results at home.
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Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Medium saucepan for alfredo sauce
  • - Sharp chef's knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • - Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Colander for draining pasta
  • Tongs for pasta handling
  • Meat thermometer (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • For the Cajun Seasoning:
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • For the Proteins:
  • 1 lb sirloin steak cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • For the Alfredo Sauce:
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg optional
  • For the Pasta:
  • 1 lb fettuccine pasta
  • Salt for pasta water
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
  • Additional Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Cajun seasoning by combining all seasoning ingredients in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly and set aside.
  • Season the proteins by patting the steak pieces and shrimp dry with paper towels. Season both generously with the Cajun seasoning mix, ensuring even coverage on all sides.
  • Cook the pasta by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  • Cook the steak by heating 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned steak pieces and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove steak and set aside.
  • Cook the shrimp in the same skillet by adding the remaining olive oil if needed. Cook seasoned shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside with the steak.
  • Make the alfredo sauce by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Slowly whisk in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
  • Finish the sauce by gradually adding Parmesan cheese while whisking continuously. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Cook for 2-3 minutes until smooth and thickened.
  • Combine everything by adding the drained pasta to the alfredo sauce, tossing to coat. Add the cooked steak and shrimp back to the skillet, gently folding to combine. Add reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
  • Serve immediately garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Choose sirloin steak for the best balance of tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or strip steak work well too
Large shrimp (16-20 count per pound) work best for this recipe
Fresh Parmesan cheese melts much better than pre-grated varieties
Don't overcook the shrimp as they will continue cooking slightly when combined with the hot pasta
The dish is best served immediately while the sauce is at its creamiest consistency