Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delightful dish that brings together the bold flavors of Cajun spices and creamy pasta. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe elevates your dining experience with its rich taste and satisfying texture. The combination of blackened shrimp and succulent steak makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to impress their guests or treat themselves to something delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavors: The blackened seasoning infuses each ingredient with a unique spice, making every bite a flavor explosion.
- Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 35 minutes, you can whip up this gourmet dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile Meal: Suitable for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to elegant gatherings, this dish fits right in.
- Creamy Indulgence: The rich Alfredo sauce perfectly complements the blackened steak and shrimp, creating a luxurious dining experience.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re cooking for friends or family, this recipe is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience. Having everything ready will help you execute the recipe flawlessly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
- Skillet: Perfect for achieving that beautiful blackened crust on the steak and shrimp.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring sauces without scratching your cookware.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces penne pasta
For the Blackened Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp (raw, deveined, tail removed)
- 1 teaspoon blackened seasoning
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Blackened Steak
- 1 pound top sirloin steak (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 teaspoon blackened seasoning
For the Alfredo Sauce
- ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion (diced, about ½ cup)
- 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
- 2 cups (476 g) heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups (200 g) parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- parsley (chopped for garnish)
How to Make Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, toss the raw shrimp with 1 teaspoon of blackened seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they are pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
In the same skillet, add your cubed top sirloin steak seasoned with another 1 teaspoon of blackened seasoning. Sear on high heat until browned on all sides—about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and let rest.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
Reduce heat to medium-low in the skillet. Melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter, then add diced onion and garlic. Sauté until translucent. Pour in 2 cups of heavy whipping cream, stirring continuously until it simmers gently. Gradually mix in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add cooked penne pasta back into the sauce along with cooked shrimp and steak. Season with remaining blackened seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat all ingredients evenly.
Step 6: Serve
Plate your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo hot, garnishing with chopped parsley for an added touch of color. Enjoy!
How to Serve Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delightful dish that deserves the perfect presentation. Serving it right can elevate the dining experience, making it truly memorable.
Plated with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish your dish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh touch.
- This adds color and enhances the flavors, making it more appealing.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Serve alongside warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- A crunchy texture complements the softness of the pasta beautifully.
Add a Side Salad
- A light side salad can balance out the richness of the Alfredo.
- Consider mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Include Lemon Wedges
- Offer lemon wedges on the side for those who enjoy a zesty kick.
- Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the dish brightens up the flavors.
Serve in Individual Bowls
- Present each serving in individual bowls for a cozy meal feel.
- This makes it easy to portion out and adds an elegant touch to your dinner table.
How to Perfect Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, follow these helpful tips.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp and high-quality steak for maximum flavor.
- Mind Your Seasoning: Be generous with blackened seasoning but taste as you go to avoid overpowering the dish.
- Sauté at High Heat: Cooking your proteins at high heat creates that perfect blackened crust while keeping them juicy inside.
- Control Your Creaminess: Adjust the heavy cream amount based on how rich you want your sauce; add more for creamier results.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Grate fresh parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged for better melting and flavor.
- Let It Rest: Allow your steak to rest after cooking before cutting; this helps retain juices.
Best Side Dishes for Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Pairing your main dish with complementary sides can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrition.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, croutons, and creamy dressing provide a classic pairing with Italian flavors.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings freshness and crunch while being easy to prepare.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs well with steak.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob is sweet and juicy, offering a fun finger food option alongside your meal.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw gives a crunchy contrast that balances the creamy pasta perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo can be easy, but small mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are common errors to avoid for the best results.
- Using Frozen Shrimp: Fresh shrimp makes a huge difference in flavor. If possible, opt for fresh, raw shrimp instead of frozen ones.
- Overcooking the Steak: Cooking steak too long can make it tough. Aim for medium-rare to preserve its juiciness.
- Not Seasoning Enough: Blackened seasoning is key. Don’t skip this step or skimp on the amount; it enhances the whole dish.
- Ignoring Pasta Timing: Make sure your pasta is perfectly al dente. If overcooked, it becomes mushy and doesn’t hold sauce well.
- Not Letting Sauce Thicken: The sauce should have a creamy consistency. Allow enough time for the cream to reduce properly before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warm, about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short bursts (1 minute), stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to maintain creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries answered.
How do I make my sauce thicker?
To thicken your sauce, let it simmer longer on low heat. Adding more grated parmesan also helps achieve the desired consistency.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is great, you can substitute with fettuccine or linguine for a different texture.
Is Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo spicy?
The blackened seasoning gives it a mild kick. Adjust the seasoning amount based on your spice preference.
What can I serve with this dish?
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh garden salad for balance.
Final Thoughts
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delightful combination of flavors that brings comfort and satisfaction to any dinner table. Customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. Try this recipe today and enjoy its rich taste!
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the rich and flavorful experience of Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo—a dish that beautifully marries the bold spices of Cajun cuisine with creamy, comforting pasta. This gourmet meal is perfect for impressing guests at dinner parties or enjoying a cozy night in. With succulent blackened shrimp and tender steak tossed in a velvety Alfredo sauce, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Elevate your dining experience with this delightful recipe that promises to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp (raw, deveined)
- 1 pound top sirloin steak (cubed)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Blackened seasoning
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season shrimp with blackened seasoning, then sauté in a skillet with vegetable oil until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook steak cubes with blackened seasoning until browned on all sides. Set aside to rest.
- For the Alfredo sauce, melt butter in the skillet, add onion and garlic until translucent, then stir in cream and parmesan until creamy.
- Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and steak into the sauce; toss well to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 735
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 48g
- Saturated Fat: 27g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
