Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta

Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is a bold, restaurant-style dish that brings together tender steak, juicy shrimp, and a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce with just the right amount of Cajun heat. This recipe is perfect when you want something indulgent, filling, and impressive without being complicated. The combination of smoky spices, perfectly cooked protein, and silky pasta makes this dish ideal for date nights, family dinners, or anytime you want a comfort meal with a little kick.

Ingredients

• 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
• 8 oz sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 oz raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, for garnish

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Season the Steak and Shrimp
Place the steak pieces and shrimp in separate bowls. Sprinkle each with Cajun seasoning, making sure they are evenly coated. This layering of seasoning ensures both proteins are flavorful and well-balanced.

Step 3: Cook the Steak
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak pieces in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside to keep it tender.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and cook the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside with the steak.
Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce
Reduce heat to medium and melt the butter in the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it gently simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring often to prevent scorching.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese, mixing until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using. The sauce should be thick, creamy, and rich without being overly heavy.

Step 7: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until fully coated. Gently fold in the cooked steak and shrimp, allowing them to warm through without overcooking. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs thinning.

Step 8: Finish and Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Variations

• Swap steak for chicken or sausage
• Add bell peppers or mushrooms for extra texture
• Use blackened seasoning instead of Cajun
• Make it extra spicy with red pepper flakes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or breadsticks
• Pair with a crisp green salad
• Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness
• Top with extra Parmesan for serving

Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Conclusion

Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is a rich, bold, and satisfying meal that feels like a restaurant-quality dish made right at home. With creamy Alfredo sauce, perfectly seasoned proteins, and comforting pasta, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and quickly become a favorite.