Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delectable dish that perfectly marries the bold flavors of blackened shrimp and juicy steak with a creamy, decadent alfredo sauce. Ideal for special occasions or a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe elevates your pasta game to new heights. You’ll savor every bite of this irresistible surf and turf meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this gourmet meal ready in no time.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of blackened seasoning on the shrimp and steak brings an exciting depth of flavor to your plate.
- Creamy Comfort: The rich alfredo sauce envelops the pasta, making each bite creamy and satisfying.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for date nights or family dinners, it suits both casual meals and elegant gatherings.
- Eye-Catching Presentation: The colorful ingredients make for a beautiful dish that will impress your guests.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Cooking spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
- Skillet: Ideal for searing the shrimp and steak to achieve that perfect blackened crust.
- Knife: A good chef’s knife ensures precise cuts for onions and steak.
- Cutting board: Provides a sturdy surface for chopping 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
- ½ cup (¼ 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 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: Prepare the Shrimp
In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with blackened seasoning. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
In the same skillet, add cubed top sirloin steak seasoned with blackened seasoning. Cook over medium-high heat for about 4-5 minutes or until browned on all sides. Remove from skillet.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté until translucent. Pour in heavy whipping cream, stirring continuously until heated through. Gradually add freshly grated parmesan cheese while mixing until melted and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add cooked penne pasta along with blackened shrimp and steak back into the skillet with alfredo sauce. Toss everything together to coat evenly. Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo with chopped parsley before serving warm. Enjoy your flavorful creation!
How to Serve Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Serving it with complementary sides and garnishes can elevate the dining experience and enhance its flavors.
Classic Presentation
- Serve the pasta directly on plates, topped with the blackened steak and shrimp.
- Drizzle extra alfredo sauce on top for added creaminess.
Garnish Ideas
- Add chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Wine Pairing
- Pair with a glass of Chardonnay to complement the richness of the alfredo sauce.
- A light Sauvignon Blanc also works well with seafood dishes.
Family Style
- Place the pasta in a large serving bowl and let everyone help themselves.
- Offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want extra flavor.
Leftover Options
- Pack any leftovers in airtight containers for lunch the next day.
- Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain texture without drying out.
How to Perfect Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Perfecting your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo involves mastering a few techniques. With these tips, you’ll impress your family or guests every time.
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use fresh shrimp and high-quality sirloin for the best flavor.
- Control Your Heat: Ensure your pan is hot enough to achieve that perfect blackened crust without burning.
- Don’t Overcook: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink; overcooking will make them tough.
- Balance Flavors: Taste your alfredo sauce before serving. Adjust seasoning as needed to ensure it’s flavorful but not overpowering.
Best Side Dishes for Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Pairing side dishes with Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover alfredo sauce. Toasted to golden perfection!
- Caesar Salad: A light salad that adds crispness alongside the creamy main dish, dressed with tangy Caesar dressing.
- Steamed Broccoli: This provides a healthy, crunchy contrast that balances the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned with lemon, it adds brightness and pairs beautifully with both steak and shrimp.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing side that offers crunch and acidity, cutting through the creamy flavors.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements this savory dish wonderfully; grill or boil until tender.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.
- Using pre-cooked shrimp: Always use raw shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Pre-cooked shrimp can become rubbery when reheated.
- Overcooking the steak: Cook the steak just until it’s browned on the outside but still juicy inside. Overcooking can lead to dry meat.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget to generously season both the steak and shrimp with blackened seasoning. This is key for achieving that rich flavor.
- Not using fresh parmesan: Using pre-grated cheese can result in a grainy sauce. Freshly grated parmesan melts better and enhances the dish’s creaminess.
- Neglecting pasta timing: Make sure to time your pasta cooking so it’s fresh and hot when you mix it with the sauce. Cold pasta will not absorb flavors well.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Place in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to regain creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo?
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a rich dish combining seasoned shrimp and sirloin steak with creamy alfredo sauce served over pasta.
How do I make Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo spicy?
For added heat, increase the amount of blackened seasoning or add cayenne pepper to taste.
Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Yes! You can substitute diced chicken breast for steak if you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just follow storage instructions carefully.
Final Thoughts
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delicious combination of flavors that brings together surf and turf in a creamy pasta dish. The recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Don’t hesitate—try this amazing recipe today!
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a luxurious dish that combines the bold flavors of perfectly seasoned shrimp and succulent steak with a rich, creamy alfredo sauce. This tantalizing surf-and-turf pasta dish is ideal for impressing guests at dinner parties or enjoying a comforting family meal. With its striking presentation and explosive flavor, every bite promises to delight your palate.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp (raw, deveined)
- 1 pound top sirloin steak (cut into cubes)
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Blackened seasoning
- Salt and pepper
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with blackened seasoning and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add cubed steak seasoned with blackened seasoning. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until browned. Remove from skillet.
- Melt butter in the skillet; sauté diced onion and minced garlic until translucent. Add heavy cream, stirring until heated through, then gradually mix in parmesan cheese until melted.
- Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and steak into the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve garnished with chopped parsley.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 830
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 51g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
