Ingredients
For the Cajun Shrimp and Steak
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak, cut into thin strips
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Alfredo Sauce
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta
12 oz fettuccine or pasta of your choice
Salt (for pasta water)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Red pepper flakes, optional for a spicier kick
Execution
Prepare the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Season and Sear the Steak
Season the steak strips with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Sear the steak strips until they are browned, about 2-3 minutes per side (depending on thickness). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter. Season the shrimp with the remaining Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cook the shrimp until pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate with the steak.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth and thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and steak back to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together until well coated.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Additional tips
- Protein Swap: Feel free to swap the steak or shrimp for chicken, or even try it with all three for a meat-lover’s version.
- Make it Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning or sprinkle extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Broccoli or spinach make great additions to add some greens to this dish.
- Lighter Option: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half and use half the amount of Parmesan for a lighter Alfredo sauce.
