Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is more than just a dish; it’s a symphony of flavors that dances on your palate. This culinary masterpiece combines the creamy, comforting essence of Alfredo sauce with the bold, spicy kick of Cajun seasoning, creating a fusion that’s both innovative and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to spice up your dinner routine, this recipe promises to deliver a gourmet experience right in your kitchen.
Ingredients Overview
The secret to the rich and robust flavor of Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta lies in its ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Steak: Opt for ribeye or sirloin, cut into cubes or strips for easy eating.
- Shrimp: Medium-sized, peeled, and deveined for the perfect bite.
- Pasta: Penne works best, but feel free to use your favorite type.
- Alfredo Sauce: Homemade with heavy cream, parmesan, and a touch of Cajun spice for that extra kick.
Quality ingredients are the foundation of any great dish. For more on selecting the best ingredients for your meals, check out our guide on Choosing Quality Ingredients for Your Recipes.
Ingredients:
- STEAK:
- 1 Ib. steak, cut into cubes (you can use Ribeye or Sirloin)
- 1/2 cup + 1 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 Tbsp garlic powder
- 1 Tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 Tbsp hot sauce
- 1 Tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/8 – 1/4 tsp crushed red chili pepper flakes (optional)
- PASTA:
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Ib. Penne Pasta
- SHRIMP:
- 10 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined (if frozen, thawed)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 Tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Pinch of Salt
- Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
- ALFREDO SAUCE:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4 oz. cream cheese softened to room temperature
- 2 cups (1 pint) heavy cream
- 1 Tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
- 1 and ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan
Directions:
For the Steak:
Place the steak pieces inside of a Ziploc bag. Set aside. Combine 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, brown sugar, and ground black pepper in a small bowl. Pour the marinade inside of the Ziploc bag, covering the meat. Seal tightly and refrigerate for 6-8 hours or preferably overnight.
For the Pasta:
Fill a large pot with water and add ½ teaspoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Bring to a boil. Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions. Drain the pasta water and set the noodles aside.
For the Shrimp:
In a medium bowl, add shrimp, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper and toss to combine and coat the shrimp. Add shrimp to hot skillet and cook, stirring constantly until shrimp is pink. Scrape shrimp into a separate bowl and set aside.
For the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once the butter is melted, add the cream cheese and heat until softened. Pour in heavy cream and season with Cajun spice, salt, and pepper. Whisk to combine. Bring to a low boil. Once boiling, decrease the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer for 8-10 minutes, whisking occasionally. The sauce should be thick enough to coat a spoon. Once the sauce has thickened, turn off the heat and add the parmesan. Stir until cheese is melted and combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings to your preference.
Add the pasta and toss it around to coat in the Alfredo. Toss in the steak, and shrimp and stir to combine. Serve and enjoy!
Cooking Techniques
Preparing the Steak
Marinating the steak is crucial for infusing it with flavor. A combination of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and Cajun seasoning ensures each bite is packed with taste. For those looking to perfect their steak-cooking technique, mastering the art of marination and cooking can elevate the dish to new heights.
Cooking the Pasta
Pasta serves as the comforting base of this dish. Boiling it with a pinch of salt and a dash of olive oil prevents sticking and enhances flavor. For those keen on achieving pasta perfection, our article on Mastering Pasta Cooking offers a treasure trove of tips and tricks to get it just right.
Preparing the Shrimp
Shrimp adds a delicate, seafood sweetness that complements the hearty steak. Seasoning with Cajun spice and quickly sautéing until pink ensures they’re flavorful and tender.
Making the Alfredo Sauce
The Alfredo sauce, with its creamy, cheesy goodness, ties all the components together. Start by melting butter and cream cheese, then slowly whisk in heavy cream and season with Cajun spice, salt, and pepper. The result? A rich, velvety sauce that’s simply divine.
Combining the Ingredients
Once your steak and shrimp are perfectly cooked and your pasta is al dente, it’s time to bring everything together. Toss the pasta in the Alfredo sauce, ensuring each piece is generously coated. Then, gently fold in the steak and shrimp, allowing the flavors to meld.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation is key to transforming a meal into an experience. Serve your Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta garnished with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a few parsley leaves. Pair with a crisp, green salad and a glass of white wine for a complete gourmet meal.
For more inspiration on presenting your dishes, explore our article on Creative Plating Techniques.
Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is a testament to the magic that happens when diverse culinary worlds collide. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and a hint of spice, it’s a dish that promises to transport you straight to gastronomic heaven. So, why wait? Dive into the world of Cajun cuisine and embark on a culinary adventure that’s sure to impress.
NOTES: You can definitely use your favorite marinade recipe or prepare your steak however you prefer.
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