Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo

Introduction to Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo

Welcome to my kitchen, where I’m excited to share my beloved recipe for Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo! As a busy mom, I often find myself in a race against the clock, juggling family and work. This dish is an absolute lifesaver. With its bold flavors and creamy sauce, it transforms an ordinary dinner night into a gourmet experience. Trust me, your family will be asking for seconds! Plus, it’s quick and relatively easy to make, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when dinner needs to shine without taking all night.

Why You’ll Love This Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo

This Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s quick to whip up, taking less than 45 minutes from start to finish, which is great for busy evenings. The creamy, garlicky sauce lovingly embraces each bite, while the tender steak and shrimp bring a delightful contrast. It’s comfort food at its finest, ensuring smiles all around the dinner table!

Ingredients for Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo

Let’s dive into the ingredients that make up this mouthwatering Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo! Each component contributes to the overall flavor and texture, making this dish a truly memorable meal.

• Penne Pasta: This sturdy pasta holds the creamy Alfredo sauce beautifully. You can substitute with fettuccine or even gluten-free pasta if needed.
• Large Shrimp: Ensure the shrimp are raw and deveined for the best texture. Fresh is preferred, but frozen shrimp works, too; just thaw them beforehand!
• Blackened Seasoning: A spice blend that adds a smoky, bold flavor to both the steak and shrimp. You can either buy it pre-made or create your own with paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder.
• Vegetable Oil: This oil is perfect for cooking shrimp and steak at high temperatures without burning. You can also use olive oil for a twist.
• Top Sirloin Steak: This cut is tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, flank steak is a good substitute.
• Unsalted Butter: Essential for making the Alfredo sauce rich and creamy; it provides that luscious mouthfeel.
• Yellow Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness to the sauce. You could use shallots for a milder taste if preferred.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic lends that aromatic kick we all love. Feel free to swap with garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is always best!
• Heavy Whipping Cream: The star of the sauce that gives it that creamy texture. For a lighter version, half-and-half can work, but the richness may suffer.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese is ideal for a smooth melt. Pre-grated options may not give the same flavor or texture.
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing the dish’s overall flavor. Since salt content varies, season to taste throughout cooking.
• Fresh Parsley: This bright herb adds a lovely touch of color and freshness when garnishing your dish.

Exact quantities are detailed at the bottom of the article, ready for printing. Let’s get cooking!

How to Make Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo

Cook the Penne Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. The salt enhances the pasta’s flavor, so don’t skip this step! Once boiling, add the penne and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 11 to 13 minutes for that perfect al dente texture. You want it cooked but still firm to bite. Before draining, make sure to reserve about a cup of that starchy pasta water. This liquid is golden for adjusting your sauce later. Drain the pasta and set it aside—your creamy masterpiece awaits!

Prepare the Shrimp

Time to season those beautiful shrimp! In a bowl, sprinkle the raw, deveined shrimp with blackened seasoning. Give them a gentle toss to evenly coat every piece. Heat up some vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, drop in the shrimp. They should sizzle joyfully! Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remember, don’t overcook them or they’ll become tough. Once cooked, transfer them to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Cook the Steak

Now onto the star of the show—the steak! Cube the top sirloin and season it generously with blackened seasoning, just like you did with the shrimp. Increase the heat on your skillet to high and add unsalted butter. Once it’s melting and bubbling, carefully place the steak cubes in the skillet. Sear them for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until you see that gorgeous brown crust forming. Aim for medium-rare so they stay juicy and tender. Transfer the steak to the plate with the shrimp, covering it to keep it warm while you finish up.

Make the Alfredo Sauce

Lower the heat to medium, and add your diced yellow onion into the same skillet. Sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes until the onions soften and become fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Then, pour in the heavy whipping cream, along with a splash of that reserved pasta water. This will enhance the creaminess. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining blackened seasoning, mixing until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Combine Everything

It’s time to bring this culinary symphony together! Add the drained penne pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy Alfredo sauce. Toss everything gently, ensuring that every swirl of pasta is enveloped in that luscious sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add more of that reserved starchy pasta water, bit by bit, until you reach the desired consistency. Finally, delicately place the shrimp and steak on top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that beautiful pop of color before serving immediately. Dinner is served!

Tips for Success

• Don’t skip reserving pasta water; it helps adjust the sauce texture.
• Cook shrimp just until opaque to preserve tenderness.
• Let steak rest covered for a few minutes before serving for juiciness.
• Adjust blackened seasoning according to your heat preference.
• For a quick clean-up, soak your pots and pans right after cooking!

Equipment Needed

• Large Pot: For boiling pasta. A Dutch oven works well, too.
• Large Skillet: Best for searing steak and shrimp; a cast-iron skillet adds great flavor.
• Colander: Essential for draining pasta. A slotted spoon can also suffice in a pinch.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements; however, eyeballing can be fun too!
• Cutting Board and Knife: Necessary for chopping onions and garlic.

Variations of Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the blackened seasoning for an extra fiery touch!
• Veggie Lover’s Delight: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers, asparagus, or spinach into the dish for added nutrition and flavor.
• Whole Grain Option: Swap out the penne pasta for whole wheat or quinoa pasta for a healthier alternative.
• Seafood Medley: Include scallops or crab meat along with the shrimp for a luxurious seafood treat.
• Vegan Variation: Use plant-based steak alternatives and replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free delight.

Serving Suggestions

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for a delicious dip into the sauce.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad complements the richness of the Alfredo sauce beautifully.
• Wine Pairing: Pair with a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc for a refreshing contrast.
• Presentation: Garnish with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley to elevate your dish visually.

FAQs about Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo

Here are some common questions I’ve encountered about this tasty recipe. Let’s dive in and clear up any doubts you might have about preparing Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen shrimp is convenient. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking so they cook evenly.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Gently reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or pasta water to revive that creamy texture.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes! You can easily enhance the heat level by adding more blackened seasoning or tossing in some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking.

Is Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo gluten-free?

It can be! Use gluten-free penne pasta and double-check the seasoning ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free. Enjoy this dish worry-free!

What sides pair well with this dish?

To keep it simple, consider serving a crisp Caesar salad or warm garlic bread. They’ll beautifully balance the richness of the Alfredo.

Final Thoughts on Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo

Cooking Blackened Steak Shrimp Alfredo is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about bringing loved ones together around the table. The moment that creamy sauce envelops the perfectly cooked pasta, the anticipation fills the air. Each bite offers an explosion of flavor, balancing the richness of the Alfredo with the smoky punch of blackened seasoning. I love seeing the smiles on my family’s faces as they dig in. This dish reminds us that even amidst our busy lives, there’s always time to create joyful memories through food. So go ahead, make it tonight and savor every delightful moment!

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