If you’re looking for a dish that brings the bold flavors of the South together with creamy, comforting pasta, you have to try this Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe. Imagine tender sirloin steak and succulent shrimp infused with smoky Cajun spices, all enveloped in a luscious, cheesy Alfredo sauce that clings perfectly to each piece of penne. This dish strikes an incredible balance between spicy kick and creamy indulgence, making it a show-stopping meal that’s surprisingly easy to make any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe lies in its straightforward, well-chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, from the spices that give the proteins their signature Cajun zing to the rich Alfredo sauce that ties everything together with velvety smoothness.
- 1 pound boneless sirloin steak, thinly sliced: Choose a tender cut for juicy, flavorful bites that complement the shrimp perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This helps to carry the spices and ensure a golden sear on the proteins.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds smokiness and vibrant color to both steak and shrimp.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Delivers just the right amount of heat for that authentic Cajun vibe.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings aromatic warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Enhances the overall seasoning with a subtle bite.
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed, shrimp brings a sweet, briny contrast that pairs beautifully with steak.
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup: The base of the creamy Alfredo sauce, ensuring richness and depth.
- 1 cup milk: Used to thin the soup into a smooth, luscious sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds that unmistakable sharpness and melts into the sauce flawlessly.
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano: Introduces a gentle herbaceous note to balance the creaminess.
- 1 pound penne pasta: Perfect for holding the sauce and packing in every bite with its tube shape.
How to Make Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. This step lays the foundation for the dish, so be sure to drain it well and set it aside to avoid any sogginess later on.
Step 2: Season the Steak and Shrimp
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper to make a vibrant seasoning mix. Coat the thinly sliced steak and peeled shrimp in this mixture. This seasoning blend is where the Cajun character truly shines, infusing the proteins with smoky warmth before they hit the pan.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat, then cook the steak strips until they reach your preferred doneness—medium rare to medium works beautifully for tender, juicy results. Once cooked, transfer the steak to a plate and keep it warm.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Using the same skillet, sauté the seasoned shrimp just until they turn pink and firm. Avoid overcooking them, as shrimp can quickly become rubbery. Remove from heat and set aside alongside the steak.
Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In a large skillet, combine condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. Gently simmer this mixture for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens into a rich, creamy sauce that’s simply irresistible.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked steak and shrimp directly into the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat every morsel with that luscious creaminess. The sizzling flavors meld beautifully at this stage, making the dish come alive.
Step 7: Toss with Pasta
Finally, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the sauce clings to each tube of pasta, creating a harmonious medley of textures and flavors. Serve immediately for the best taste and warmth.
How to Serve Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this dish to restaurant-worthy levels. Consider sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of extra Parmesan on top. The green parsley adds a freshness and pop of color, perfectly balancing the richness of the sauce.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty pasta with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is another fantastic choice to sop up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls, layering shrimp and steak on top as a beautiful garnish. Alternatively, use a large serving platter to showcase the vibrant colors and textures so everyone can dig in family-style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb some sauce overnight, so stir gently before reheating to bring back the creamy texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes well in portion-sized containers. Freeze within two hours of cooking and consume within two months for best flavor. When you thaw it, the creamy sauce might separate slightly but whisking during reheating will restore it nicely.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the Alfredo sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir frequently and avoid high heat to keep shrimp tender and prevent the steak from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding the sauce, other pasta shapes like fettuccine, rigatoni, or even bowtie pasta will work wonderfully depending on your preference.
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup on hand?
You can substitute with a homemade béchamel sauce or use cream of chicken soup for a subtle flavor variation. The sauce’s creaminess is key, so keep that in mind.
How spicy is this Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe?
The heat level is moderate thanks to the cayenne pepper and paprika. If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne or skip it altogether. For extra spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the sauce.
Can I prepare the steak and shrimp ahead of time?
Yes! You can season and cook the proteins a few hours ahead and refrigerate. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before combining with the sauce and pasta to keep everything warm and flavorful.
Is this recipe suitable for weeknight dinners?
Definitely. Despite its gourmet feel, this Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe comes together in about 45 minutes, making it both impressive and practical for busy nights when you want something special.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe is hands down one of those dishes that feels decadent yet approachable, bold yet comforting. It’s perfect for treating yourself or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite go-to meals whenever you crave a little bit of Cajun flair wrapped in creamy goodness.
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Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta recipe brings together tender, flavorful sirloin steak and succulent shrimp coated in a spicy Cajun seasoning, all tossed in a creamy, rich Alfredo sauce made with cream of mushroom soup and Parmesan cheese, served over perfectly cooked penne pasta for a deliciously indulgent meal.
Ingredients
For the Steak:
- 1 pound boneless sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound penne pasta
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to be combined later with the sauce and proteins.
- Season the Steak and Shrimp: In a bowl, mix together the olive oil, paprika, cayenne pepper (for steak), garlic powder, and black pepper to create the seasoning blend. Coat both the thinly sliced steak and the shrimp evenly with this mixture.
- Cook the Steak: Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Cook the seasoned steak slices until they reach your preferred doneness, typically about 3-4 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: Using the same skillet, sauté the seasoned shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In a large skillet, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. Simmer the mixture over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked steak and shrimp into the thickened Alfredo sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to thoroughly coat the proteins with the sauce and integrate flavors.
- Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet containing the sauce and proteins. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated and all ingredients are well combined.
- Serve: Serve the pasta hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful Cajun-inspired Alfredo dish!
Notes
- Ensure the shrimp are peeled and deveined for the best texture and flavor.
- You can adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the spice level.
- If cream of mushroom soup is unavailable, a homemade mushroom cream sauce can be used as a substitute.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for optimal flavor in the Alfredo sauce.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender.
- Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a fresh color contrast and subtle herbal note.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
