Indulge your taste buds in a symphony of flavors with this Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta. A fusion of succulent steak, spicy Cajun shrimp, and creamy Alfredo sauce, this dish is a celebration of bold tastes and hearty textures. Follow the steps below to create a culinary masterpiece that will elevate your dining experience.
Ingredients:
For the Steak Marinade:
- 1 lb. steak, cut into cubes (Ribeye or Sirloin recommended)
- 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)
For the Pasta:
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb. Penne Pasta
For the 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
For the 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
Instructions:
For the Steak Marinade:
- Place the steak pieces in a ziplock bag.
- In a bowl, combine 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, hot sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper.
- Pour the marinade into the ziplock bag, seal tightly, and refrigerate for 6-8 hours or overnight.
For the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding salt and olive oil.
- Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
For the Shrimp:
- In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook the shrimp in a hot skillet until pink. Set aside.
For the Steak:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet.
- Cook the marinated steak for 2-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Add butter, minced garlic, and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes. Set aside.
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium-low heat.
- Add cream cheese and heat until softened.
- Pour in heavy cream, season with Cajun spice, salt, and pepper. Whisk to combine.
- Bring to a low boil, then simmer for 8-10 minutes until thickened.
- Turn off the heat and add Parmesan, stirring until melted.
Assembly:
- Add pasta to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat.
- Stir in the cooked steak and shrimp.
- Serve and savor the Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta!
Conclusion:
In conclusion, this recipe is a gastronomic journey, blending Cajun spices, succulent steak, and plump shrimp in a creamy Alfredo sauce. Each bite is a burst of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. Treat yourself to this fusion feast, a delightful dish that perfectly balances heat, creaminess, and savory goodness. Elevate your culinary skills and enjoy the best of both worlds with Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta!