Take your dinner game to the next level with this luxurious Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo. Juicy, perfectly seasoned steak and shrimp are the stars of this creamy, flavorful dish. The blackened spices add a smoky depth, while the rich Alfredo sauce ties it all together for a truly indulgent meal. Perfect for a date night, special occasion, or whenever you’re craving a restaurant-quality dish at home, this recipe is a guaranteed showstopper.

Ingredients

For the Blackened Steak:

• 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks, about 1 inch thick
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Cajun or blackened seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Blackened Shrimp:

• ½ pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon Cajun or blackened seasoning
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

For the Alfredo Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz fettuccine or linguine
• 2 teaspoons salt, for boiling water

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped parsley
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Prepare the Steak
   • Rub the steaks with olive oil, Cajun or blackened seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until smoking hot.
   • Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer depending on your desired doneness.
   • Remove the steaks from the skillet, cover with foil, and let rest.
2. Prepare the Shrimp
   • Toss the shrimp in Cajun or blackened seasoning, olive oil, and garlic powder.
   • In the same skillet, cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Pasta
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce
   • In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, and bring to a gentle simmer.
   • Stir in the Parmesan cheese and nutmeg (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
   • Toss the cooked pasta in the Alfredo sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for a silky texture.
6. Assemble the Dish
   • Slice the rested steak into strips.
   • Plate the pasta, then top with slices of steak and cooked shrimp.
   • Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving:

• Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture. Pair with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
• Complement the meal with a glass of dry white wine or a bold red.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
• Freezing: The Alfredo sauce may not freeze well due to the cream content, so freezing is not recommended.

Variations

1. Spicy Kick:
   • Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the Alfredo sauce for a spicy twist.
2. Surf and Turf Supreme:
   • Include lobster or scallops along with shrimp for an ultra-luxurious version.
3. Vegetarian Option:
   • Replace the steak and shrimp with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.
4. Low-Carb Option:
   • Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
5. Cheese Blend:
   • Use a combination of Parmesan, Asiago, and Romano cheeses for extra depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Decadent Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a dish that combines bold flavors, creamy textures, and a touch of elegance. It’s a complete meal that’s satisfying and utterly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this recipe will deliver a restaurant-quality experience right at your dining table.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Yes, blackened chicken works wonderfully in this recipe and can be cooked using the same seasoning and method as the steak.

2. What’s the best pasta for this dish?
Fettuccine is a classic choice, but linguine, spaghetti, or even penne work well too.

3. Can I make the Alfredo sauce in advance?
It’s best made fresh, but you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat gently with a splash of cream or milk to restore its consistency.

4. How do I get the perfect sear on my steak?
Ensure the skillet is very hot before adding the steak, and avoid moving it around while it cooks. A good sear needs high heat and minimal interference.

5. Can I lighten the Alfredo sauce?
You can substitute half the cream with milk or use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Enjoy this indulgent recipe and savor every bite of this ultimate surf-and-turf delight! 🥩🍤🍝