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Wednesday, March 12, 2025

Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta


 Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta – A Spicy, Creamy Delight


Why You’ll Love This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta


Imagine tender, juicy steak and plump, succulent shrimp coated in a bold Cajun spice blend, all tossed in a rich, creamy homemade Alfredo sauce. This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta delivers an irresistible combination of spicy heat, velvety smoothness, and hearty protein, making it a perfect meal for special occasions or indulgent weeknights.


This dish outshines classic Alfredo by adding a Louisiana-style kick that makes every bite unforgettable. The smoky, slightly spicy flavors of the steak and shrimp beautifully contrast with the buttery, cheesy Alfredo sauce, while fettuccine pasta ensures each forkful is perfectly coated.


Ready to make a pasta dish that rivals restaurant quality? Let’s get started!



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🛒 Ingredients & Their Roles


For the Steak:


1 pound boneless sirloin steak, thinly sliced – Provides a hearty, rich flavor and chewy texture that balances the creaminess of the sauce.


1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps sear the steak for a golden, flavorful crust.


1 teaspoon paprika – Adds a smoky depth to enhance the Cajun spice blend.


½ teaspoon cayenne pepper – Brings heat, making the dish bold and exciting.


½ teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses the steak with a deep, aromatic flavor.


¼ teaspoon black pepper – Enhances the spice blend with subtle sharpness.


½ teaspoon salt – Balances the flavors and ensures the steak is perfectly seasoned.



For the Shrimp:


½ pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined – Tender and slightly sweet, shrimp adds variety to the dish.


½ teaspoon paprika – Adds color and warmth to the shrimp.


¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper – Brings just the right amount of heat.


¼ teaspoon garlic powder – Ensures the shrimp are flavorful.


¼ teaspoon salt – Enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.


1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps achieve a perfect, golden sear.



For the Alfredo Sauce:


2 tablespoons butter – Provides a rich, creamy base.


2 cloves garlic, minced – Delivers a fragrant, savory depth to the sauce.


1 cup heavy cream – Ensures a thick, luxurious texture.


½ cup whole milk – Lightens the sauce slightly while maintaining creaminess.


1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Gives the sauce its signature cheesy, umami-packed flavor.


½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning – Adds a touch of spice to complement the rich sauce.


Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for balancing the creaminess.



For the Pasta:


12 ounces fettuccine – The perfect pasta to hold the creamy sauce.


1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water) – Ensures the pasta is well-seasoned.



Garnish:


2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.


Extra Parmesan cheese – Because more cheese is always better!




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🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions


Step 1: Cook the Pasta


1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.



2. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente.



3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.




Step 2: Prepare the Steak


1. In a bowl, season the sliced steak with paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.



2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.



3. Add the steak slices and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned.



4. Remove from the skillet and set aside.




Step 3: Cook the Shrimp


1. Season the shrimp with paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt.



2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the same skillet over medium heat.



3. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.



4. Remove from the skillet and set aside.




Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce


1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.



2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.



3. Pour in heavy cream and whole milk, stirring continuously.



4. Add grated Parmesan cheese and Cajun seasoning, stirring until the sauce thickens.



5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.




Step 5: Assemble the Dish


1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.



2. Return the steak and shrimp to the skillet, mixing gently to combine.



3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.




Step 6: Serve and Garnish


1. Divide the pasta among plates.



2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.



3. Serve immediately and enjoy every creamy, spicy, and savory bite!





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💡 Pro Tips for the Best Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta


Use high-quality Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives the sauce a rich, authentic flavor.


Adjust the spice level – If you love extra heat, add more cayenne pepper or Cajun seasoning. For a milder dish, reduce the spice slightly.


Don’t overcook the shrimp – Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking can make them rubbery. Keep an eye on them!


Let the steak rest before slicing – This keeps it juicy and flavorful.


Reserve pasta water – It helps adjust the sauce consistency without diluting the flavor.




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🥂 Serving Suggestions


Pair this Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta with:


A crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.


Garlic bread for an extra indulgent touch.


A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the creamy and spicy flavors.




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🔥 Why This Recipe Stands Out


This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta isn’t just another creamy pasta dish. It’s a flavor explosion that perfectly balances spicy, smoky, and cheesy goodness. Whether you're cooking for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or simply treating yourself, this dish guarantees restaurant-quality results at home.


With its bold Cajun spices, succulent shrimp, tender steak, and velvety Alfredo sauce, thi

s pasta is irresistibly delicious and surprisingly simple to make.


Bookmark this recipe, share it, and impress everyone with your cooking skills!


Would you like more Cajun-inspired dishes? Let me know!


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