Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo

Name: Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces penne pasta; 1 pound large shrimp, raw, deveined, tail removed; 1 teaspoon blackened seasoning (for shrimp); 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 pound top sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 teaspoon blackened seasoning (for steak); 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter; 1 small yellow onion, diced (about 1/2 cup); 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 2 cups parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 1 tablespoon blackened seasoning (for sauce); 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; Chopped parsley, for garnish

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There’s something undeniably satisfying about preparing a dish that feels like it belongs on a restaurant menu—but is made with your own two hands in the comfort of your kitchen. I still remember the first time I made this Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo for a casual dinner with friends. I was nervous—steak and seafood in one dish? But the moment I plated it, the creamy sauce swirled over pasta, topped with smoky shrimp and tender beef, the room fell silent as everyone took their first bite. That’s when I knew: this recipe was something special.

What makes it ideal for beginners is how little effort it takes to pull together a seriously impressive result. With straightforward ingredients, minimal prep, and only one pan for most of the cooking, this dish is as practical as it is delicious. Better yet, it’s packed with protein, can be tailored for dietary preferences, and doubles as a comforting yet elevated meal.

Why This Recipe is Special

At its core, Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a “surf and turf” meal reimagined for the home cook. The blackened seasoning adds a smoky spice that cuts through the richness of the Alfredo sauce, while the shrimp and steak bring two very different textures that balance perfectly over pasta. It’s a high-flavor, low-fuss recipe that teaches beginners how to multitask proteins and make a creamy sauce—all without overwhelming complexity. It’s also endlessly adaptable, making it a go-to for any skill level.

Ingredients and Preparation

Pasta
The pasta serves as the hearty base of this dish. A shape like penne or rigatoni works well because its nooks hold onto the sauce. You can use fettuccine or spaghetti in a pinch. Gluten-free pasta is a good swap for dietary needs.

Shrimp
Shrimp adds a sweet, ocean-fresh contrast to the richer steak and sauce. Look for deveined shrimp with tails removed. Fresh or frozen both work well. If using pre-cooked shrimp, add them at the end just to warm through.

Steak
Steak gives the dish its meaty depth. Top sirloin is affordable and tender, but ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon are all great choices. Vegetarian? Use sautéed mushrooms or tofu cubes with the same seasoning.

Blackened Seasoning
This spice blend is the heart of the dish. It adds heat, smokiness, and depth. You can make it from scratch (paprika, garlic powder, thyme, cayenne, etc.) or buy a pre-mixed version. Control the spice by adjusting the quantity.

Alfredo Sauce Ingredients

Onion and Garlic: Aromatic base that builds flavor.

Heavy Cream: Adds creaminess and body. Swap with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version.
Parmesan Cheese: Provides umami and richness. Always go for freshly grated if possible.
Salt and Pepper: Balance and enhance the other flavors.

Parsley (Optional): A fresh garnish to brighten the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Boil a large pot of salted water and cook your pasta until al dente according to package directions. Reserve one cup of the pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

Step 2
Season your raw shrimp evenly with blackened seasoning. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 1–2 minutes on each side until pink and lightly browned. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Step 3
Season the steak pieces generously with more blackened seasoning. Increase skillet heat to high and add butter. Once melted and bubbling, sear the steak cubes for 1–2 minutes per side until the outside is browned and the inside remains slightly pink. Remove from heat and place them with the shrimp.

Step 4
Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion until translucent (about 3–5 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 5
Pour in the heavy cream, stir in parmesan cheese, a little pasta water, and more blackened seasoning. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens and the cheese fully melts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6
Return the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until coated in the sauce. If needed, add more pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 7
Top the pasta with the cooked shrimp and steak. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Beginner Tips and Notes

Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking shrimp or steak; it causes steaming instead of searing.

Overcooked shrimp will be rubbery—remove from heat as soon as they curl and turn opaque.
Forgot to thaw shrimp? Run them under cold water in a colander for a few minutes until pliable.
If your sauce gets too thick, a splash of pasta water or even milk can thin it without diluting flavor.

Use a nonstick or cast iron skillet for best results when searing proteins.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a light side salad or roasted vegetables to balance the creamy richness. Try garlic bread for an extra indulgent touch, or a squeeze of lemon over the shrimp for a fresh contrast. For leftovers, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to rehydrate the sauce.

Conclusion

If you’ve been intimidated by steak or shrimp dishes in the past, Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is the perfect recipe to boost your kitchen confidence. It’s a flavor-packed, easy sheet pan dinner alternative that delivers on all fronts—savory, creamy, and just a little spicy. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this lemon herb chicken recipe-style Alfredo will quickly become one of your favorite quick and healthy meals. Try it out and share your results in the comments—we’d love to hear how it went!

FAQ About Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo

1. Is Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo spicy?

It can be! The blackened seasoning adds a bit of heat, but you can easily adjust the spice level by using less seasoning or choosing a mild blend.

2. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, pre-cooked shrimp can be used. Just warm them in the skillet with seasoning at the end of cooking to avoid overcooking them.

3. What cut of steak works best?

Top sirloin is a great balance of tenderness and affordability, but ribeye, filet mignon, or even New York strip will work well depending on your preference and budget.

4. How can I make the sauce lighter?

You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, though the sauce will be thinner. Adding a bit of cream cheese can help retain creaminess.

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