CAJUN SHRIMP AND STEAK ALFREDO PASTA

 

Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta: A Bold, Creamy, and Flavor-Packed Dish

If you’re craving a hearty and indulgent meal, look no further than this Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta. A perfect balance of savory steak, succulent shrimp, and creamy Alfredo sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne. This recipe is sure to impress with its bold Cajun flavors and creamy richness. Plus, it’s a simple yet elegant dish to elevate any dinner party or weeknight meal.

Ingredients:

For the Steak:

• 1 lb steak, cubed (Ribeye or Sirloin work best)
• 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 (optional)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/8 – 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Pasta:

• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb penne pasta

For the Shrimp:

• 10 oz peeled and deveined shrimp (if frozen, thawed)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• Pinch of salt
• Pinch of black pepper

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 1/2 cup butter
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened at room temperature
• 2 cups (1 pint) heavy cream
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper (or to taste)
• 1 and 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Steak Marinade:
   • Place the cubed steak in a Ziploc bag.
   • In a small bowl, combine 1/2 cup olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper.
   • Pour the marinade over the steak, seal the bag, and refrigerate for 6-8 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
2. Cook the Pasta:
   • Fill a large saucepan with water, adding 1/2 tsp salt and 1 tbsp olive oil. Bring to a boil.
   • Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Season the Shrimp:
   • In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
   • Heat a pan over medium-high heat, then add the shrimp. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4. Cook the Steak:
   • In the same pan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Remove the steak from the marinade and add it to the hot pan in a single layer. Sear for 2-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through.
   • Add butter, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Continue to cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring to coat the steak with the flavors. Remove the steak and set it aside.
5. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
   • Add the softened cream cheese and stir until smooth and well combined.
   • Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to create a creamy sauce.
   • Add Cajun seasoning, freshly ground black pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Combine and Serve:
   • Add the cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce, tossing until well coated.
   • Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and steak, combining all the ingredients.
   • Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning, if desired.

Enjoy Your Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta!

This dish is perfect for any occasion, offering a delightful mix of bold, spicy Cajun flavors with creamy Alfredo sauce. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner, this Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta will surely become a favorite!Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms Bok Choy