Introduction

This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta offers a delicious fusion of spicy Cajun flavors with creamy Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, it combines tender steak, succulent shrimp, and rich pasta in one bowl.

A close-up view of a creamy pasta dish with three main layers: the bottom layer is a bed of smooth, pale yellow fettuccine coated in a rich, white cream sauce; on top are medium-sized, browned steak cubes with a slightly crispy texture; scattered among the steak pieces are curled, pink-orange shrimp with specks of black pepper and small green herb bits. The dish is served in a white bowl set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

200 g steak (ribeye or sirloin works beautifully for tenderness)
200 g shrimp (peeled and deveined)
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (for bold flavor)
300 g fettuccine or penne pasta (choose your favorite shape)
Salt (for pasta water)
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (adds richness)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1.5 cups heavy cream (thickens the sauce)
1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)
Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Fresh parsley (for color)
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Lemon wedges (for brightness)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later use.
Step 2: Toss the steak slices with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Toss the shrimp with the remaining Cajun seasoning. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil to the same skillet and sauté shrimp for 2–3 minutes, flipping once, until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently.
Step 5: Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with the optional Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Add the cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, stir in reserved pasta water a little at a time to adjust consistency.
Step 7: Gently fold in the cooked steak and shrimp, ensuring everything is well combined. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes if using, and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the steak and shrimp in Cajun seasoning and a splash of olive oil for 15 minutes before cooking.
Use a mix of fettuccine and penne or your favorite pasta shape to change texture and presentation.
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but the sauce may be less rich.
Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for more veggies and depth of flavor.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce and prevent it from thickening too much.

How to Serve

A close-up image shows a dish with a base layer of creamy pasta in pale yellow, covered in a smooth sauce. On top, several small, browned steak cubes with a slightly crispy texture are arranged in the center. Scattered around the steak are cooked shrimp, pinkish with light grill marks and a glossy surface. Small green herb pieces are sprinkled throughout the dish, adding a touch of color. The food is served in a white bowl on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of seafood instead of shrimp?

Yes, scallops or chunks of firm white fish work well with this recipe. Adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.

What can I substitute for Cajun seasoning if I don’t have it?

You can make a simple blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper in similar proportions for a homemade Cajun flavor.