Name: Cajun Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 ½ cup heavy cream; 2 Tablespoons Cajun seasoning (homemade or store bought); ½ teaspoon kosher salt (omit if seasoning blend contains salt); 1¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 lemon (zest only); 3 Tablespoons smoked paprika; 1 Tablespoon onion powder; 1 Tablespoon garlic powder; 2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon ground white pepper; 1 teaspoon ground mustard; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; ½ teaspoon dried basil

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Introduction

This creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce brings a flavorful twist to the classic Italian favorite. It combines rich parmesan and cream with a bold blend of Cajun spices, creating a sauce that’s both comforting and delightfully spicy.

This image shows a close-up of creamy pasta in a white bowl placed on a white marbled surface. The pasta has multiple layers of flat, wide noodles that are coated in a thick, orange-yellow creamy sauce. On top of the pasta, there is a scattered sprinkle of finely grated white cheese and fresh green herb leaves, likely parsley, adding flecks of color. The texture appears rich and smooth, with the herbs and cheese providing some contrast and freshness to the dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter
1 ½ cup heavy cream
2 Tablespoons Cajun seasoning (homemade or store bought)
½ teaspoon kosher salt (omit if your seasoning blend contains salt)
1¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1 lemon (zest only)
3 Tablespoons smoked paprika
1 Tablespoon onion powder
1 Tablespoon garlic powder
2 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground white pepper
1 teaspoon ground mustard
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon dried basil

Instructions

Step 1: Melt the butter in a large skillet over low heat until it is fully melted and starts to froth, showing white bubbles on top.
Step 2: Stir in the heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Add salt if needed. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook on low for 5 to 6 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Remove the skillet from heat and add the lemon zest. Gradually stir in the parmesan cheese until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust salt if necessary.
Step 4: Add your cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat the noodles with the sauce, or serve the sauce alongside as desired.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter option, substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk, though the sauce may be less thick.
Add cooked andouille sausage or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
Freshly grate your parmesan cheese for the best melting and richest flavor.
If you prefer less heat, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and adjust paprika to taste.

Storage

Store leftover Cajun Alfredo sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. You may need to add a splash of cream or milk to regain the creamy consistency.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with creamy yellow pasta layered with some sauce, sprinkled with chopped green herbs and grated cheese on top, a lemon slice resting on the left side of the pasta, and a small bunch of fresh green microgreens on the left edge of the bowl. The bowl sits on a round wooden board, with a fork with a wooden handle placed to the right on a white marbled surface. In the background, part of a pan with more pasta and herbs is visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it. Reheat slowly on the stove before serving, stirring well to restore smoothness.

What dishes go well with Cajun Alfredo sauce?

This sauce pairs wonderfully with pasta, especially fettuccine or penne. It also works great as a drizzle over grilled chicken, shrimp, or roasted vegetables for a flavorful boost.