Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta

Cajun Seasoning Blend

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Mix all spices together in a small bowl.
2. Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

Proteins

Ingredients:

• 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized strips
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (from above)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. Pat steak strips and shrimp dry with paper towels.
2. Season steak with 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, rubbing it in well.
3. Season shrimp with remaining 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning.
4. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Cook steak strips for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove and set aside.
6. Add remaining oil and butter to the same skillet.
7. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Alfredo Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fettuccine pasta
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup freshly grated Romano cheese
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and white pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in Parmesan and Romano cheeses until smooth.
6. Add nutmeg and season with salt and white pepper.
7. If sauce is too thick, add pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Assembly

Instructions:

1. Add the drained pasta to the alfredo sauce and toss to coat evenly.
2. Add the cooked steak and shrimp back to the pasta and gently fold together.
3. If needed, add more pasta water to achieve a silky consistency.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional Cajun seasoning, salt, or pepper.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve immediately while hot.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or crusty French bread
• Add a side of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions
• Garnish with sliced green onions for extra color and flavor
• Pair with a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc

Tips for Success:

• Don’t overcook the shrimp – they should be pink and slightly firm
• Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce
• Keep the alfredo sauce on low heat to prevent breaking
• Season the pasta water generously with salt
• Have all ingredients prepped before you start cooking
• For spicier heat, add more cayenne to the Cajun seasoning
• Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain juices

Variations:

• Chicken Option: Substitute chicken breast for steak, cut into strips
• Vegetarian: Use blackened mushrooms and bell peppers instead of meat
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream
• Extra Kick: Add a splash of hot sauce to the alfredo

Serves: 6 people
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes