If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that brings together bold flavors and creamy indulgence, this Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is an absolute treasure. Imagine tender cubes of juicy steak and succulent shrimp, both perfectly blackened with a spicy seasoning blend, tossed in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce that clings lovingly to every piece of penne pasta. It’s the kind of meal that feels both unexpectedly luxurious and deeply comforting, making it perfect for a special family dinner or impressing guests without fuss. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a cherished favorite in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential to create the perfect harmony of textures and flavors in your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe. Each element plays a key role, from the creamy Parmesan sauce to the perfectly seasoned proteins.
- 8 ounces penne pasta: Holds the Alfredo sauce beautifully while providing a satisfying bite.
- 1 pound large shrimp (raw, deveined): Adds a delicate seafood flavor and a touch of sweetness.
- 1 pound top sirloin steak (cut into cubes): Offers hearty, tender meatiness that pairs amazingly with the creamy sauce.
- ½ cup unsalted butter: The rich base that melts into a luscious sauce.
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream: Creates the velvety texture that makes Alfredo sauce so irresistible.
- 2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Delivers that signature sharp, nutty flavor essential for Alfredo.
- Blackened seasoning (to taste): Infuses the shrimp and steak with a smoky, spicy kick.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Enhances all the components without overpowering them.
How to Make Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling the penne pasta until it’s al dente, meaning it should be tender but still firm to the bite. This is crucial because it ensures your pasta won’t become mushy once tossed with the sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the steak and shrimp.
Step 2: Blacken the Shrimp
Heat some vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then generously season your shrimp with blackened seasoning. Cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a gorgeous pink and develop that signature charred crust. Remove the shrimp and keep them warm—this step sets the foundation for the dish’s bold flavor profile.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Using the same skillet to capture all those delicious flavors, sear your cubed sirloin steak, coated with blackened seasoning, for about 3 to 4 minutes each side. Whether you like it medium-rare or well done, aim for a caramelized crust to add depth and texture. Once cooked to your liking, set the steak aside alongside the shrimp.
Step 4: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
In your skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté diced onion until soft and translucent—this soft sweetness is the subtle base for the sauce. Add minced garlic and let it infuse the butter for a brief moment before pouring in the heavy cream. Let the cream simmer gently for around 5 minutes, then gradually whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until you achieve a silky smooth sauce that will coat every morsel perfectly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Now the magic happens. Toss the cooked penne pasta into the sauce, followed by the blackened shrimp and steak. Stir everything together to ensure each bite bursts with creamy goodness and smoky, spicy flavor. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, then garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and herbaceous brightness just before serving.
How to Serve Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is a classic choice, adding a lovely contrast with its bright green color and fresh aroma. You can also try adding a few red pepper flakes for extra heat or a grating of more Parmesan cheese on top to fan the flavors even further.
Side Dishes
This dish is rich and filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp side salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some roasted garlic broccoli cuts through the richness beautifully. Garlic bread or a warm baguette are also excellent options to help scoop up every bit of that dreamy Alfredo sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, try serving the pasta in mini cast iron skillets or decorative bowls to keep it warm and create a rustic appeal. You can also plate individual portions with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a lemon wedge on the side to brighten the palate after the creamy sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, but keep the pasta tightly sealed to prevent the sauce from drying out.
Freezing
Freezing is not ideal for this dish due to the cream-based sauce which can separate and become grainy. If you do freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month, but expect to reheat carefully.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or milk to help restore the sauce’s creamy texture and prevent it from drying out. Microwave reheating is possible but less ideal as it can unevenly heat and toughen the shrimp and steak.
FAQs
What type of steak works best for this recipe?
Top sirloin is fantastic because it’s tender yet flavorful and holds up well when cubed and seared quickly. You can also use ribeye for a richer taste or flank steak if you prefer a leaner cut.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is recommended because it traps the sauce nicely, you can also use fettuccine, linguine, or even rigatoni depending on your preference.
How spicy is the blackened seasoning?
The heat level can be adjusted to your liking since blackened seasoning often includes paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and other spices. You can make it mild or pack a punch by increasing the cayenne powder.
Is this recipe suitable for weeknight dinners?
Yes! With just about 35 minutes from start to finish, it’s surprisingly quick for a dish that looks and tastes gourmet. Plus, your stovetop does most of the work without complicated techniques.
Can I make the Alfredo sauce dairy-free?
Making a dairy-free version is tricky because Parmesan and heavy cream are key to the sauce’s flavor and texture, but you can try using coconut milk and nutritional yeast as substitutes with varying results.
Final Thoughts
This Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves a hearty, flavorful pasta dish that feels special every time. The balance of spicy, smoky proteins with a luscious cream sauce turns a simple meal into an unforgettable experience. I honestly can’t wait for you to try it and see how quickly it becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen too!
Print
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and flavorful Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo combining perfectly seasoned and seared steak and shrimp with creamy homemade Alfredo sauce served over tender penne pasta. This hearty dish offers a delightful blend of Cajun blackened spices and creamy Italian comfort, ideal for a satisfying dinner with a touch of elegance.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces penne pasta
Seafood & Meat
- 1 pound large shrimp, raw and deveined
- 1 pound top sirloin steak, cut into cubes
Sauce
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning & Others
- Blackened seasoning, to taste
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Vegetable oil, for cooking
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the shrimp: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp generously with blackened seasoning. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the steak: In the same skillet, season the cubed top sirloin steak with blackened seasoning. Sear the steak cubes for 3-4 minutes on each side until they reach your preferred doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside with the shrimp.
- Make the Alfredo sauce: Melt the unsalted butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy whipping cream and bring to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 5 minutes to slightly thicken. Gradually whisk in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine everything: Add the cooked penne pasta, shrimp, and steak cubes to the Alfredo sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to combine and heat through. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve and garnish: Divide the Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo onto plates and garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, colorful finish. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly grated parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated for a smoother sauce.
- Adjust blackened seasoning amount to suit your spice preference.
- Cooking times for steak can be adjusted depending on desired doneness.
- This recipe pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Leftovers can be stored refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
