Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delightful dish that brings together the bold flavors of blackened shrimp and succulent steak, all enveloped in a creamy Alfredo sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe balances indulgence with ease. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, this dish promises to impress with its rich taste and satisfying textures.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of blackened seasoning with creamy Alfredo creates an irresistible taste experience.
- Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 35 minutes, you can whip up this gourmet meal in no time.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it for dinner parties, date nights, or casual family meals—it’s suitable for any occasion.
- Hearty Meal: This dish is filling and satisfying, making it perfect for those who love hearty recipes.
- Easy Cleanup: One pot for pasta and one skillet for everything else means less time cleaning and more time enjoying!
Tools and Preparation
To make Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help you create this flavorful dish with ease.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Colander
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for cooking pasta evenly without overcrowding.
- Skillet: Perfect for achieving that delicious sear on both shrimp and steak.
- Colander: Helps drain pasta quickly while ensuring it stays perfectly cooked.
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 Alfredo 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
Garnish
- parsley (chopped for garnish)
How to Make Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain using a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil. Sprinkle shrimp with 1 teaspoon of blackened seasoning. Cook shrimp in hot skillet until they turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
In the same skillet, add cubed top sirloin seasoned with 1 teaspoon of blackened seasoning. Sear on all sides until browned but still tender, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in heavy whipping cream, bringing to a gentle simmer. Gradually mix in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add cooked penne pasta back into the skillet with Alfredo sauce. Fold in cooked shrimp and steak until well coated. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy this decadent meal!
How to Serve Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delightful dish that deserves to be presented beautifully. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.
Plate It Up
- Use large, shallow bowls to create an appealing presentation.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for color and freshness.
Pair with Garlic Bread
- Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Toast slices lightly for added crunch.
Add a Fresh Salad
- A crisp Caesar or garden salad complements the richness of the alfredo.
- Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for balance.
Offer Wine Pairing
- A glass of chilled Chardonnay pairs well with the creamy pasta.
- Alternatively, a light red like Pinot Noir enhances the steak flavors.
Use Extra Parmesan
- Serve additional grated parmesan cheese at the table.
- This allows guests to customize their alfredo experience.
How to Perfect Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
To master Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, consider these essential tips.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and top sirloin make all the difference in flavor.
- Control Seasoning: Adjust the amount of blackened seasoning based on your spice preference.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Cook shrimp until just pink to prevent overcooking; they should be tender.
- Stir Constantly: When making the sauce, stir continuously for a smooth consistency without lumps.
- Let It Rest: Allow the steak to rest before cutting to lock in juices for maximum tenderness.
- Experiment with Pasta Types: While penne works great, try fettuccine or linguine for a different texture.
Best Side Dishes for Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Pairing side dishes with Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus roasted in garlic adds a fresh crunch.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a nice contrast to the rich alfredo sauce.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.
- Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs complements the dish’s richness well.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a light, refreshing side.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with butter or sour cream for comfort food vibes.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned simply enhance any meal with depth of flavor.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter can bring a delightful sweetness to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. If you overcook them, they become tough. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re pink and opaque.
- Not seasoning enough: The blackened seasoning is key to the dish’s flavor. Don’t skimp on it! Generously coat both the shrimp and steak for maximum taste.
- Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Use freshly grated cheese for a creamier sauce.
- Skipping the pasta water: Reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water helps thicken your sauce and improve its texture.
- Using low-fat cream: Heavy whipping cream is essential for a rich sauce. Avoid low-fat options as they won’t achieve the desired creaminess.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freezing Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best enjoyed within 1-2 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts at medium power, stirring occasionally, until warm throughout.
- Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo:
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While penne works great, feel free to substitute with fettuccine or linguine for a different texture.
Is Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo spicy?
The dish can have a mild kick from the blackened seasoning. Adjust the amount used based on your spice preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components separately ahead of time. Combine them just before serving for the best results.
What can I serve with Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo?
This creamy dish pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh salad to balance flavors.
Final Thoughts
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is an indulgent dish that brings together rich flavors in a delightful way. Its versatility allows you to customize it by adding vegetables or tweaking spices according to your taste. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo—a gourmet dish that brings together tender shrimp and juicy steak, all enveloped in a luscious cream sauce. In just 35 minutes, you can create this satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. The bold blackened seasoning enhances the protein, while the creamy Alfredo sauce ties everything together beautifully. Whether you’re impressing guests or enjoying a night in, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp (deveined)
- 1 pound top sirloin steak (cubed)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons blackened seasoning
- Kosher salt and black pepper
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high. Season shrimp with blackened seasoning and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sear cubed steak seasoned with blackened seasoning for about 5-7 minutes until browned but tender; remove.
- Melt butter in the skillet, sauté onion until translucent, add garlic and cook briefly. Stir in cream and gradually mix in parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and steak into the sauce; season to taste.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 340g)
- Calories: 800
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 47g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
