Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delightful dish that brings together the robust flavors of blackened shrimp and tender steak, all enveloped in a creamy alfredo sauce. Perfect for date nights or family dinners, this dish impresses with its rich taste and satisfying texture. You’ll love how quickly it comes together, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of blackened seasoning on the steak and shrimp creates a mouthwatering flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Quick Cooking Time: With only 35 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy a gourmet meal in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special celebration, this dish fits the bill beautifully.
- Creamy Comfort: The alfredo sauce adds a luscious creaminess that complements the spices perfectly.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes.
Tools and Preparation
To make Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, you’ll need some essential tools to help you along the way.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking of both the steak and shrimp while achieving that perfect blackened crust.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures that your penne cooks evenly and is ready to mix with your delicious alfredo sauce.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 ounces penne pasta
For the Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, (raw, deveined, tail removed)
- 1 teaspoon blackened seasoning
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
For the Steak
- 1 pound top sirloin steak, (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 teaspoon blackened seasoning
For the Sauce
- ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter
- 1 small yellow onion, (diced (about ½ cup))
- 2 teaspoons garlic, (minced)
- 2 cups (476 g) heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups (200 g) parmesan cheese, (freshly grated)
- 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- parsley, (chopped for garnish)
How to Make Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 teaspoon of blackened seasoning until they are well coated.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Steak
In the same skillet, add cubed top sirloin steak seasoned with another teaspoon of blackened seasoning. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned to your liking. Remove from skillet and set aside with shrimp.
Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt ¼ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent. Pour in heavy whipping cream while reducing heat to low. Stir constantly as you add freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add cooked penne pasta to the sauce along with sautéed steak and shrimp. Toss everything together gently so that each piece is coated in creamy goodness. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve
Plate your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo garnished with chopped parsley for an added touch of freshness.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo!
How to Serve Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Pairing this rich dish with the right accompaniments can elevate your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make your plate even more delightful.
With Garlic Bread
- A side of warm garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly, providing a crunchy texture that balances the dish.
With Caesar Salad
- A fresh Caesar salad adds a crisp contrast to the richness of the alfredo, making it a refreshing choice for your meal.
With Steamed Vegetables
- Brightly colored steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus offer nutrition and visual appeal, enhancing your plate.
With Wine Pairing
- A glass of Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the flavors of blackened steak and shrimp, making for a sophisticated touch.
For Family Style Serving
- Serve in a large bowl and let everyone help themselves. This creates a communal atmosphere that’s perfect for gatherings.
How to Perfect Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
To ensure you achieve the best possible flavor and texture in your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, follow these helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients – Freshly grated parmesan cheese and high-quality shrimp will elevate the dish significantly.
- Don’t overcook shrimp – Cook shrimp just until they turn pink for optimal tenderness; overcooking can lead to rubbery textures.
- Control heat levels – Ensure your skillet is hot enough to achieve that perfect blackened crust on both steak and shrimp without burning.
- Adjust seasoning – Feel free to modify the amount of blackened seasoning based on your spice preference for a customized flavor.
- Let steak rest – Allowing the steak to rest before cutting helps retain its juices, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
- Garnish generously – Chopped parsley not only adds color but also enhances freshness with every serving.
Best Side Dishes for Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes seasoned with garlic pair nicely with the richness of alfredo sauce.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These crispy sprouts add a nutty flavor that balances out the creamy pasta beautifully.
- Caprese Salad – A fresh mix of tomatoes, mozzarella, basil, and balsamic drizzle brings brightness to your meal.
- Fried Green Tomatoes – Crispy fried green tomatoes provide an interesting texture contrast while adding Southern flair.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements savory dishes well, making it a delightful summer side option.
- Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with herbs offers a healthy alternative while still being satisfying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, it’s easy to overlook some important details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, and overcooking can make it tough. Aim for a bright pink color and firm texture.
- Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Always use freshly grated parmesan for the creamiest sauce.
- Not seasoning properly: Skipping the blackened seasoning on either protein can lead to bland flavors. Ensure both shrimp and steak are well-seasoned before cooking.
- Ignoring pasta timing: Cooking pasta too long can lead to mushy noodles. Follow package instructions closely for al dente results.
- Skipping the resting period: After cooking, letting the steak rest for a few minutes helps redistribute juices, making it more tender.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best consumed within 1-2 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through.
- Microwave: Use medium heat in short intervals, stirring between each, to avoid uneven heating.
- Stovetop: Heat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo that you might find helpful.
What is Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo?
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delicious dish featuring seasoned steak and shrimp served in a creamy alfredo sauce over pasta.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While penne is great, you can substitute with fettuccine or linguine if you prefer a different pasta shape.
How can I customize this recipe?
You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition or try different seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
Is Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo spicy?
The level of spice depends on the blackened seasoning used. You can adjust it according to your preference by using less seasoning or opting for a milder mix.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components like the alfredo sauce ahead of time and combine them just before serving.
Final Thoughts
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Its rich flavors make it perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners at home. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or side dishes. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite!
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the rich and flavorful Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, a delightful combination of tender steak and succulent shrimp, perfectly seasoned and enveloped in a creamy alfredo sauce.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp (raw, deveined)
- 1 teaspoon blackened seasoning (for shrimp)
- 1 pound top sirloin steak (cut into cubes)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 small yellow onion (diced)
- 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Toss shrimp with blackened seasoning in a bowl until well-coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, cook seasoned steak for about 4-5 minutes until browned; remove from skillet.
- Melt butter in the skillet, add onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Pour in cream and stir in parmesan cheese until melted.
- Add cooked pasta, shrimp, and steak to the sauce; toss gently to coat.
- Serve garnished with chopped parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 380g)
- Calories: 670
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
