When it comes to indulgent dinner recipes, few can match the deliciousness of Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo. This mouthwatering dish not only combines the rich flavors of blackened steak and shrimp but also envelops them in a creamy, dreamy Alfredo sauce that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a cozy family meal, this recipe has everything you need to impress without complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
The beauty of this Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The tender, juicy steak complements the succulent shrimp, while the rich Alfredo sauce binds everything together in a harmonious blend. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is accessible and straightforward, allowing you to savor incredible flavors without spending hours in preparation. Simply follow the easy steps, and in under an hour, you can create a meal that raises the bar for your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of seasoned shrimp and succulent steak creates a flavor profile that’s nothing short of amazing.
- Easy to Make: This creamy pasta dish comes together easily, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
- Comfort Food: Indulge in a hearty meal that’s satisfying and comforting—great for the soul and taste buds!
- Customizable: Adjust the level of spices or add your favorite vegetables to suit your preferences.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into cooking your Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo, make sure your kitchen is ready. It’s best to prepare all your ingredients and tools in advance, which not only streamlines the cooking process but also enhances the overall experience. You will need a large pot for boiling pasta and a large skillet (at least 33 cm) for sautéing the shrimp and steak while creating the creamy sauce.
Gather all your ingredients, including 225 grams of penne pasta, 450 grams of large shrimp, and top sirloin steak. Having these on hand will make your cooking session smooth. Ensure your ingredients are prepped: peel and devein the shrimp, dice the onion, and mince the garlic to keep the flow going during cooking. By organizing your workspace and having everything at your fingertips, you can focus on perfecting this rich dish.
Ingredients
- 225 g penne pasta
- 450 g large shrimp, raw, deveined, tails removed
- 1 teaspoon blackened seasoning
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 450 g top sirloin steak, cut into 2.5 cm cubes
- 57 g unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 80 g)
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 476 ml heavy whipping cream
- 200 g parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start your culinary journey by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook until it reaches that perfect al dente texture, typically according to the package instructions. After cooking, don’t forget to reserve 240 ml of the pasta water before draining the rest. This will help in adjusting the sauce later for the right consistency. Set the pasta aside as you embark on the next steps of preparing the shrimp and steak.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Next, take your large raw shrimp and season them evenly with blackened seasoning to infuse them with a bold flavor. Heat the vegetable oil in your large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned shrimp and cook them for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn opaque. Cooking shrimp too long can result in a chewy texture, so be sure to watch them closely. Once they’re just right, transfer them to a plate and cover to keep warm while you focus on the steak.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
Increase the heat of the skillet to high and add unsalted butter. As it melts, season the steak cubes with the same blackened seasoning you used for the shrimp. Once the butter is bubbling, add the steak to the skillet and sear them for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely brown crust and reach a medium-rare doneness. After cooking, transfer the steak to the plate with the shrimp, ensuring everything stays warm as you continue the sauce preparation.
Step 4: Create the Alfredo Sauce
With the shrimp and steak safely set aside, reduce the heat back to medium. In the same skillet, add your diced onion and sauté it until softened, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes. Once the onion becomes translucent, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute to release its aroma. Carefully pour in the creamy heavy whipping cream along with 60 to 120 ml of the reserved pasta water to help loosen the sauce. Gradually add in fresh parmesan cheese, a little more blackened seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir this magical mixture constantly until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce that begins to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the drained penne pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to ensure that every piece is coated in the delightful Alfredo sauce. If it feels too thick, slowly add more of the reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency. Finally, top the creamy pasta with the seared shrimp and steak. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color, and serve this culinary delight immediately for the best experience.
Variations
- Protein: Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for a different twist.
- Vegetables: Add sautéed spinach, broccoli, or asparagus for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spices: For those who love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Cooking Notes
- Cook the shrimp until they are just opaque to prevent overcooking.
- Leftover Alfredo sauce can be saved in the fridge for up to 3 days—just reheat gently!
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this dish with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- Add garlic bread to soak up any remaining Alfredo sauce on your plate!
Tips
- For an even creamier sauce, opt for a higher-fat content cream or mix in mascarpone cheese.
- Always taste and adjust seasoning for personal preference before serving.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 750
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can pre-cook the shrimp and steak. However, the pasta should be added just before serving.
What if I can’t find blackened seasoning?
You can make your own by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, and oregano.
Can I use another type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works beautifully, feel free to substitute with fettuccine, linguine, or another favorite pasta shape.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be saved in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
Conclusion
If you’re in search of a dish that will impress your family or elevate your dinner party, Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo is the recipe for you. Luxuriously creamy yet bursting with flavor, it offers a delightful twist on traditional pasta dishes. Don’t hesitate to explore different variations to find your perfect balance of flavors! We’d love to hear how you enjoyed this recipe, so please leave a comment, share your experience, or let us know how your unique spin turned out!
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Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This dish is a rich combination of blackened steak and shrimp in a creamy Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients
- 225 g penne pasta
- 450 g large shrimp, raw, deveined, tails removed
- 1 teaspoon blackened seasoning
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 450 g top sirloin steak, cut into 2.5 cm cubes
- 57 g unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 80 g)
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 476 ml heavy whipping cream
- 200 g parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning
- 0.5 teaspoon kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Start your culinary journey by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook until it reaches that perfect al dente texture, typically according to the package instructions. After cooking, don’t forget to reserve 240 ml of the pasta water before draining the rest. Set the pasta aside as you embark on the next steps of preparing the shrimp and steak.
- Next, take your large raw shrimp and season them evenly with blackened seasoning. Heat the vegetable oil in your large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned shrimp and cook them for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn opaque. Transfer them to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- Increase the heat of the skillet to high and add unsalted butter. Season the steak cubes with the blackened seasoning and add them to the skillet once the butter is bubbling. Sear them for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they develop a lovely brown crust.
- Reduce the heat back to medium, add diced onion and sauté until softened. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute. Pour in the heavy whipping cream and reserved pasta water, add parmesan, extra seasoning, and stir continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Return the drained penne pasta to the skillet, coating it in the sauce. Add shrimp and steak, garnish with parsley, and serve immediately.
Notes
Cook the shrimp until they are just opaque. Leftover Alfredo sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—just reheat gently!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 750 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 35 g