Prepare your taste buds for a bold and hearty treat with this Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta! This rich and creamy dish combines tender steak, succulent shrimp, and pasta coated in a luxuriously spiced Alfredo sauce. Whether it’s a special occasion or you simply want to elevate your weeknight dinner, this recipe brings Creole-inspired flavors right to your table. With a dash of Cajun seasoning and perfectly cooked proteins, it’s the kind of meal that people will ask for again and again!
Quick Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4–6 servings
- Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly (but looks like a pro made it!)
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines two proteins—steak and shrimp—for a hearty and satisfying dish.
- Perfectly seasoned with Cajun spices, bringing bold and smoky flavors to creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Versatile: Easily substitute with chicken or sausage for other variations (think Cajun chicken and shrimp or Cajun sausage Alfredo!).
- Works as a fun twist on meals with ground beef or even classic mac and cheese, with a Cajun kick!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to create this irresistible Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta:
For the Pasta & Alfredo Sauce
- Bowtie pasta (or substitute penne or fettuccine)
- Butter, heavy cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Garlic (fresh and fragrant)
- Cajun seasoning (homemade or store-bought for convenience)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the Proteins
- Steak (like sirloin or filet mignon), cut into strips
- Shrimp (peeled and deveined for convenience)
- Cajun sausage (optional, for a smoky, spicy addition)
Optional Add-Ins
- Bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flair.
👉 Find detailed ingredient measurements in the recipe card below!
How to Make Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta
Follow these simple steps to create a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen!
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain, toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
2. Sear the Steak and Shrimp
- For the Steak: Season steak strips generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil, and sear the steak for 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- For the Shrimp: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and cook shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices. Cook for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
(If adding Cajun sausage, sauté it with the shrimp for extra smoky flavor.)
3. Make the Cajun Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens. Mix in 1–2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning for that signature spicy kick.
4. Combine It All Together
- Add the cooked pasta directly into the Alfredo sauce, tossing gently to coat each piece. Stir in the seared steak, shrimp, and sausage (if using). Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until everything is warmed through.
5. Finish and Serve
- Plate the Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy your flavor-packed creation!
👉 Need more guidance? Check out this step-by-step recipe video to cook along!
Pro Tips for Cajun Pasta Perfection
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly into the sauce.
- Don’t overcook shrimp: It only takes a couple of minutes—overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery.
- Adjust spice levels: Cajun seasoning can range from mild to very spicy. Taste as you go!
Serving Suggestions
Pair this hearty and creamy Cajun dish with:
- Crispy Garlic Bread: The perfect tool for mopping up extra Alfredo sauce.
- Simple Tossed Salad: A fresh and tangy balance to the dish’s richness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Brussels sprouts, asparagus, or zucchini work wonderfully.
Recipe Variations You’ll Love
- Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta: Sub steak for boneless chicken breast, sliced and cooked similarly.
- Cajun Sausage Alfredo: Add slices of spicy andouille sausage for a smoky punch alongside shrimp.
- Vegetarian Alfredo Pasta: Skip the proteins altogether and stir in roasted veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms.
- Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo: If steak is your primary protein, this variation brings comfort-food vibes.
- Tasty Mac and Cheese Upgrade: Use elbow pasta and double the cheese in the sauce for Cajun-style mac and cheese!
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: Heat gently in a skillet or microwave with a splash of cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Recommended Kitchen Tools
- Large Skillet: For searing proteins and making the sauce.
- Microplane Grater: For perfectly shredded Parmesan cheese.
- Colander: For draining pasta quickly and efficiently.
Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Video
Printable Recipe Card
Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta Recipe
Ingredients:
- Bowtie pasta (12 oz)
- 1 lb steak, sliced into strips
- ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves minced garlic
Instructions:
- Boil bowtie pasta until al dente. Set aside.
- Sear seasoned steak strips in a skillet and set aside. Sauté shrimp in butter with Cajun seasoning; add optional sausage.
- Make Alfredo sauce with butter, garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan, and Cajun spice.
- Combine pasta, steak, shrimp, and Alfredo sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley and Parmesan.
Closing Notes
This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is the ultimate crowd-pleaser – a dish that perfectly balances creamy richness with a smoky, spicy kick. It’s vibrant, filling, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re craving steak and shrimp recipes, thinking of adding Cajun sausage, or looking for new meals with ground beef, this dish has something for everyone. Don’t forget to pin this recipe for your next dinner inspiration!
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