Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) fettuccine or your favorite pasta
• Water and salt (for boiling pasta)

Kitchen Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Large skillet or frying pan (for cooking steak and shrimp)
• Medium saucepan (for making Alfredo sauce)
• Tongs (for flipping steak and shrimp)
• Grater (for fresh Parmesan cheese)
• Knife and cutting board
• Spoon or whisk for stirring

How to Make Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta

Making Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is easier than you think. With just a few steps, you’ll be able to create a dish that rivals any restaurant.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Begin by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta. Cook for 9-11 minutes (or until al dente), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
2. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside. Be sure to save a small cup of pasta water in case you need to thin out the sauce later.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak and Shrimp

1. While the pasta is cooking, season the steak and shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure the steak and shrimp are well coated on all sides.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook to your preferred doneness—about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare or 6-7 minutes per side for medium.
3. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips against the grain.
4. In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture starts to simmer. Bring it to a gentle boil, and allow it to cook for about 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
3. Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
4. Season the sauce with paprika (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta into the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce.
2. Gently stir in the cooked shrimp and sliced steak, mixing everything together so that the proteins are evenly distributed.
3. Let the pasta sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and to heat through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Once everything is well combined, serve the Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta on a large platter or individual bowls.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh flavor.
3. Optionally, sprinkle a little extra Parmesan cheese on top before serving.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta

• Choose the Right Steak: For this dish, tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or filet mignon work best, as they cook quickly and stay juicy.
• Spice Control: If you’re sensitive to spice, you can adjust the Cajun seasoning to your liking. Start with a small amount and taste as you go.
• Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and texture, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the pasta. Simply sauté them in the same skillet after cooking the steak and shrimp.
• Make It Spicier: If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce for an extra kick.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: For the best texture and flavor, always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the sauce.

Variations on Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta

While the recipe we’ve shared is already delicious, there are several ways to customize it:

• Chicken and Shrimp: If you prefer chicken, swap the steak for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Season and cook as you would the steak.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the steak and shrimp entirely and substitute with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or other vegetables for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Different Pasta: While fettuccine is the classic choice for Alfredo, feel free to use other pasta types like penne, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta.
• Add Heat with Jalapeños: For an extra spicy kick, finely chop a jalapeño and toss it into the skillet when cooking the shrimp.