Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a decadent dish that promises to delight your taste buds. This recipe offers a perfect balance of rich flavors with its blackened shrimp and tender steak, all enveloped in a creamy alfredo sauce. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this dish will impress your guests and elevate your dining experience. Get ready for a culinary adventure that combines the best of surf and turf!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor Profile: The blackened seasoning adds depth, creating an unforgettable taste experience.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can whip up this gourmet meal in just 35 minutes.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion, from date nights to family gatherings.
- Creamy Comfort: The alfredo sauce makes every bite feel indulgent and satisfying.
- Protein-Packed: Combining steak and shrimp offers a hearty meal that keeps you full longer.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Mixing spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet is essential for achieving that perfect sear on your steak and shrimp.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures your penne pasta cooks evenly, providing a great base for the dish.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes it easy to cut vegetables and meat precisely.
- Cutting board: Protects your countertops while preparing ingredients safely.
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
For Garnish
- parsley, (chopped for garnish)
How to Make Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing 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.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the raw shrimp with 1 teaspoon of blackened seasoning until evenly coated.
Step 3: Sear 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 until they are opaque and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Steak
In the same skillet, add the top sirloin cubes seasoned with another teaspoon of blackened seasoning. Sear each side for about 3-4 minutes or until desired doneness is achieved. Remove from heat and rest.
Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Pour in heavy whipping cream while stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer before adding freshly grated parmesan cheese along with remaining blackened seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir until cheese melts smoothly into the sauce.
Step 7: Mix Everything Together
Add cooked penne pasta to the sauce along with sautéed shrimp and steak cubes. Toss everything together gently until well combined.
Step 8: Serve
Plate your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo hot. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving for an extra touch of flavor!
Now you’re ready to enjoy this delicious Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo! Perfectly creamy with delightful seafood flavors, it’s sure to become one of your favorite recipes!
How to Serve Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delightful dish that can be served in various styles to please your guests. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.
Plated with Garnishes
- Garnish with parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness.
- Serve with lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors of the dish.
- Top with extra parmesan: Adding more cheese can elevate the creamy taste.
Family Style Serving
- Large platter presentation: Serve all ingredients together on a big platter for sharing.
- Accompany with breadsticks: Soft breadsticks are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Include a salad: A simple green salad pairs well and balances the richness of the pasta.
Individual Bowls
- Personalized servings: Serve in individual bowls for a more elegant look.
- Add fresh herbs: Top each bowl with basil or thyme for added aroma.
- Drizzle olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can enhance the dish’s richness.
How to Perfect Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
To achieve perfection in your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, follow these expert tips for an even more delicious result.
- seasoning choice: Use generous amounts of blackened seasoning to intensify flavors.
- Fresh ingredients matter: Always opt for fresh shrimp and high-quality steak for the best taste.
- Control cooking times: Cook shrimp just until pink; overcooking can make them tough.
- Adjust sauce thickness: If sauce is too thick, add some pasta water to reach desired consistency.
- Experiment with cheeses: Mixing different types of cheese can add depth to the flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Pairing side dishes with Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo enhances your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this rich and flavorful dish.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy on the outside, soft inside; perfect for dipping into alfredo sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection add both color and nutrition to your plate.
- Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a bright flavor that pairs well with creamy pasta.
- Brussels Sprouts: Sautéed Brussels sprouts bring out earthy notes that balance the richness of alfredo.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the creaminess beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect your dish. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the seasoning – Not using enough blackened seasoning can lead to a bland dish. Ensure both the shrimp and steak are generously coated for maximum flavor.
- Overcooking the shrimp – Shrimp cooks quickly, and overcooking can make it rubbery. Cook until just pink and opaque for the best texture.
- Using pre-grated cheese – Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Always use freshly grated Parmesan for a creamy sauce.
- Not letting the sauce thicken – Rushing the sauce can result in a watery consistency. Allow it to simmer gently until it thickens properly.
- Neglecting pasta timing – Cooking pasta too long or too short can ruin its texture. Follow package instructions for perfect al dente pasta.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Freeze within 2 hours of cooking.
- Best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Microwave – Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until warmed through.
- Stovetop – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo.
Can I use another type of pasta for Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo?
You can substitute penne with any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine or linguine, while keeping the cooking times in mind.
What sides pair well with Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo?
Consider serving it with garlic bread or a fresh side salad to balance the richness of the dish.
How can I customize my Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It’s great for meal prep; just store it properly and follow reheating instructions for best results.
Final Thoughts
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort to any dinner table. Its creamy texture paired with seasoned proteins makes it versatile enough for various occasions. Don’t hesitate to customize this dish by adding your favorite ingredients!
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, a luxurious dish that expertly combines tender steak and succulent shrimp with creamy alfredo sauce. This gourmet meal is perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners and promises to impress your guests. With its bold seasoning and satisfying texture, each bite offers a delightful culinary experience. Whip up this dish in just 35 minutes, and enjoy a comforting taste of surf and turf right at home.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp (raw, deveined)
- 1 pound top sirloin steak (cut into cubes)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- Blackened seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
- Toss shrimp with blackened seasoning; sear in vegetable oil until cooked through.
- Sear the seasoned steak cubes until desired doneness.
- In the same skillet, melt butter, add onions and garlic; cook until soft.
- Stir in cream, parmesan, remaining seasoning, salt, and pepper; simmer until thickened.
- Combine pasta, shrimp, and steak into the sauce; mix well.
- Serve hot with parsley garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing/Simmering
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 44g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
