Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil the pasta: Cook the fettuccine in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water in case you need to thin the sauce later.
Step 2: Prepare the Cajun Shrimp and Steak
- Season the steak: In a small bowl, mix together all the Cajun seasoning ingredients. Sprinkle half of the seasoning mixture over the sliced steak and toss to coat evenly.
- Cook the steak: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak slices and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
- Season the shrimp: Toss the shrimp with the remaining Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- Cook the shrimp: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside with the steak.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Add the cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cream has slightly thickened.
- Stir in the Parmesan: Lower the heat to medium-low and gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine the sauce with pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the Alfredo sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Add the steak and shrimp: Return the cooked steak and shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing them with the pasta and sauce until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the pasta with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Tips and Tricks
- Control the spice level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning to make the dish spicier or milder according to your preference.
- Use fresh shrimp and steak: Fresh, high-quality shrimp and steak will yield the best flavor and texture.
- Make it lighter: For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use a smaller amount of Parmesan cheese.
- Customize: Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the pasta for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Conclusion
Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is an indulgent, flavorful dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself to a special meal. The combination of creamy Alfredo sauce, spicy Cajun flavors, and the rich taste of shrimp and steak makes this pasta a true crowd-pleaser. Enjoy it with a glass of wine and some crusty bread for an unforgettable dining experience!
Feel free to experiment with the recipe and adjust it to suit your tastes. Enjoy this deliciously rich and satisfying pasta dish!