1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later use.
2. Season and Cook the Steak:
- While the pasta cooks, season the steak strips with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak strips for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a nice crust but are still juicy inside. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Season the shrimp with the remaining Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt.
- Sauté the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside with the steak.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
- Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue to cook until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat the noodles evenly. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.
- Gently fold in the cooked steak and shrimp.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
- Transfer the pasta to plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the bold flavors of Cajun shrimp, steak, and creamy Alfredo!
Tips for Success
- Perfectly Cooked Steak: For the best results, cook the steak to your preferred doneness, but don’t overcook it. You want it to be juicy and tender.
- Adjust Heat: If you prefer more spice, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Alfredo sauce.
- Cheese Quality: Use freshly grated Parmesan for the Alfredo sauce, as it melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture.
Conclusion
This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is the perfect combination of rich, creamy Alfredo sauce, tender steak, and flavorful shrimp, all with a kick of Cajun spice. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress, offering a balance of indulgence and bold, zesty flavors. Enjoy this restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!