This Cajun Shrimp And Steak Alfredo Pasta is made with penne pasta, cajun flavoured shrimp, chicken and steak all coated in a creamy Alfredo sauce. An easy weekday dinner jam-packed with loads of flavour in every bite!
Continue reading to see why this recipe works, what it tastes like, and why you should add it to your repertoire of pasta recipes.
TO MAKE CAJUN SHRIMP AND STEAK ALFREDO PASTA, YOU WILL NEED
Steak:
- 1 lb. steak, cut into cubes (you can use Ribeye or Sirloin)
- ½ cup + 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ 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
- ⅛ – ¼ tsp crushed red chili pepper flakes (optional)
Pasta:
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Â 1 lb. 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
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
- 1 and ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
HOW DO YOU MAKE CAJUN SHRIMP AND STEAK ALFREDO PASTA?
- For the steak marinade:
Step 1: Place the steak pieces inside of a ziploc bag. Set aside.
Step 2: Combine all the seasoning in a small bowl.
Step 3: Pour the marinade inside of the ziploc bag, covering the meat. Seal tightly and refrigerate for 6-8 hours or preferably overnight.
- Cook the pasta:
Step 1: Fill a large pot with water and add ½ teaspoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Bring to a boil.
Step 2: Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions. Drain the pasta water and set the noodles aside.
- Cook the shrimp:
Step 1: In a medium bowl, add shrimp and all the seasoning, toss to combine and coat the shrimp.
Step 2: Add shrimp to hot skillet and cook, stirring constantly until shrimp is pink. Scrape shrimp into a separate bowl and set aside.
- Cook the steak:
Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the hot skillet.
Step 2: Remove steak marinade from refrigerator. Remove the steak chunks from the marinade and place in the same skillet in a single layer.
Step 3: Cook for 2-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown.
Step 4: Add butter, minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes and continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring and tossing to coat the steak. Scrape into a separate bowl and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo sauce:
Step 1: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once the butter is melted, add the cream cheese and heat until softened.
Step 2: Pour in heavy cream and season with Cajun spice, salt and pepper. Whisk to combine.
Step 3: 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.
Step 4: Once 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.
Step 5: Add the pasta and toss around to coat in the Alfredo. Toss in the steak, chicken and shrimp and stir to combine. Serve and enjoy your freshly made Cajun Shrimp And Steak Alfredo Pasta.
RECIPE NOTES AND HELPFUL TIPS:
You can definitely use your favourite marinade recipe or prepare your steak however you prefer.
For the best results, you will want to use large fresh shrimp that are peeled and deveined. I love 21-25 count. You may also use frozen raw shrimp and thaw before using.
Substitute the heavy cream and butter with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk or cashew cream. Vegan parmesan cheese can also be used to achieve a similar flavor.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION:
Yield: 4-6Â | Estimate the nutritional information for each serving:
Calories: 523kcal | Total Fat: 32g | Cholesterol: 289mg | Sodium: 745mg | Total Carbohydrates: 33g | Sugar: 2g | Protein: 25g | Calcium: 265mg | Iron: 3mg | Potassium: 303mg | Fiber: 2g | Vitamin A: 2348IU | Vitamin C: 7mg
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs):
1. Can I use a different type of pasta for Cajun Shrimp And Steak Alfredo Pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, but penne pasta works well as it holds the sauce and seasonings effectively.
2. How spicy is Cajun Shrimp And Steak Alfredo Pasta?
The spiciness can be adjusted to your taste by controlling the amount of Cajun seasoning used. It offers a flavorful kick without being overwhelmingly hot.
3. Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?
Absolutely! While shrimp adds a delightful seafood element, you can substitute it with chicken, sausage, or even vegetables to suit your preferences or dietary restrictions.
4. Can I make Cajun Shrimp And Steak Alfredo Pasta ahead of time?
It’s best to enjoy this Cajun Shrimp And Steak Alfredo Pasta immediately after cooking, as the creamy sauce may thicken upon refrigeration. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat them the next day for a tasty meal.
5. Can I make my own Cajun seasoning?
Definitely! In fact, with this recipe, it is recommended so that you can control the amount of salt. Making your own Cajun seasoning allows you to adjust the flavors according to your preference.
6. Can I add extra vegetables to Cajun Shrimp And Steak Alfredo Pasta?
Yes! Feel free to add colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, diced tomatoes, or even spinach to incorporate more nutrients and textures into the dish.
7. Can I freeze Cajun Shrimp And Steak Alfredo Pasta?
It is not recommended to freeze the dish, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing. It is best enjoyed fresh for the optimal taste and texture.
8. Why is my sauce runny?
If your sauce is runny, then you did not simmer the sauce long enough. Also, make sure to use HEAVY whipping cream which has a higher fat content than regular whipping cream and don’t skip the parmesan cheese which helps thicken the sauce.
Let’s Make Cajun Shrimp And Steak Alfredo Pasta!
And there you have it – this easy, yummy Cajun Shrimp And Steak Alfredo Pasta is ready to take its place on your table. If you decide to give it a shot, make sure to snap a photo and share it with us on Facebook and Pinterest.
Be sure to follow us for more yummy recipes in the future. Until next time, happy cooking!
Cajun Shrimp And Steak Alfredo Pasta
Print ThisIngredients
- >>>Steak:
- 1 lb. steak, cut into cubes (you can use Ribeye or Sirloin)
- ½ cup + 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ 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
- ⅛ - ¼ tsp crushed red chili pepper flakes (optional)
- >>>Pasta:
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb. 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
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
- 1 and ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan
Instructions
- For the steak marinade:
Step 1: Place the steak pieces inside of a ziploc bag. Set aside.
Step 2: Combine all the seasoning in a small bowl.
Step 3: Pour the marinade inside of the ziploc bag, covering the meat. Seal tightly and refrigerate for 6-8 hours or preferably overnight.
- Cook the pasta:
Step 1: Fill a large pot with water and add ½ teaspoon of salt and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Bring to a boil.
Step 2: Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package directions. Drain the pasta water and set the noodles aside.
- Cook the shrimp:
Step 1: In a medium bowl, add shrimp and all the seasoning, toss to combine and coat the shrimp.
Step 2: Add shrimp to hot skillet and cook, stirring constantly until shrimp is pink. Scrape shrimp into a separate bowl and set aside.
- Cook the steak:
Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the hot skillet.
Step 2: Remove steak marinade from refrigerator. Remove the steak chunks from the marinade and place in the same skillet in a single layer.
Step 3: Cook for 2-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown.
Step 4: Add butter, minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes and continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring and tossing to coat the steak. Scrape into a separate bowl and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo sauce:
Step 1: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once the butter is melted, add the cream cheese and heat until softened.
Step 2: Pour in heavy cream and season with Cajun spice, salt and pepper. Whisk to combine.
Step 3: 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.
Step 4: Once 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.
Step 5: Add the pasta and toss around to coat in the Alfredo. Toss in the steak, chicken and shrimp and stir to combine. Serve and enjoy your freshly made Cajun Shrimp And Steak Alfredo Pasta.
