Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delightful dish that brings together the best of both land and sea. This rich and creamy pasta is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. The combination of blackened shrimp and tender steak creates a unique flavor profile that will leave everyone asking for more!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The blend of blackened seasoning adds a deep, savory taste that pairs perfectly with the creamy Alfredo sauce.
- Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking, you can have this gourmet meal on your table in under an hour.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for date nights, family gatherings, or casual dinners, this dish suits any occasion.
- Rich and Satisfying: With its hearty ingredients, Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is filling enough to satisfy even the hungriest diners.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the shrimp, steak, and parsley make this dish visually appealing.
Tools and Preparation
To make Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Cooking spoon
- Tongs
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet is crucial for achieving that perfect blackened crust on the shrimp and steak.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Having a large pot ensures that the penne pasta cooks evenly without sticking together.
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
- 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
- Boil water in a large pot.
- Add a pinch of salt and then the penne pasta.
- Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
- In a bowl, toss the raw shrimp with 1 teaspoon of blackened seasoning until well coated.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add seasoned shrimp to the skillet.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Season the Steak
- In the same skillet, add cubed top sirloin steak seasoned with another teaspoon of blackened seasoning.
Step 5: Cook the Steak
- Sear steak cubes for about 3-4 minutes until browned on all sides.
- Remove from skillet and set aside with shrimp.
Step 6: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and cook until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic; sauté briefly until fragrant.
Step 7: Combine Ingredients
- Pour in heavy cream while stirring constantly.
- Gradually add parmesan cheese until melted and combined into a creamy sauce.
- Season with remaining blackened seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper.
Step 8: Combine Everything
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and mix well to coat evenly.
- Return shrimp and steak to skillet; toss gently to combine all ingredients.
Step 9: Serve
- Plate your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo hot.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo!
How to Serve Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Serving Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo can elevate your dining experience. Here are some delicious ideas to make the most of this rich dish.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce and the tanginess of Caesar dressing complement the creamy pasta perfectly.
- Garden Salad: A mix of fresh vegetables adds a light, refreshing contrast to the heavy flavors of the alfredo.
Complement with Garlic Bread
- Classic Garlic Bread: Toasted bread with garlic butter is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce.
- Cheesy Garlic Bread: Add a layer of melted cheese on top for an extra indulgent touch.
Add a Zesty Beverage
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the richness of the alfredo sauce beautifully.
- Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a twist of lemon adds a refreshing touch.
How to Perfect Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
To enhance your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, consider these helpful tips.
- seasoning: Ensure to apply enough blackened seasoning to both shrimp and steak for a flavorful punch.
- Fresh ingredients: Use fresh parsley and freshly grated parmesan for the best taste and texture.
- Pasta cooking: Cook penne until al dente to maintain its structure when mixed with the sauce.
- Creamy texture: Whisk the heavy cream well before adding it to ensure a smooth alfredo sauce.
- Steak doneness: Cook steak cubes to your preferred level (medium-rare recommended) for optimum flavor.
- Garnish wisely: Always finish your dish with chopped parsley for color and freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Pairing side dishes with your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo creates a complete meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer comfort and complement the richness of the pasta.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus provides a crunchy, fresh contrast to the creamy dish.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts add an earthy flavor that balances out the savory elements of your meal.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can bring brightness and crunch, enhancing your overall dining experience.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a fun, seasonal element that pairs well with surf and turf dishes.
- Caprese Skewers: These skewers provide a fresh bite with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled in balsamic reduction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo from good to outstanding. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
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Skipping the seasoning – Failing to use enough blackened seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you coat both the shrimp and steak thoroughly for maximum taste.
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Overcooking the shrimp – Cooking shrimp for too long makes them tough. Aim for a few minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
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Using pre-grated cheese – Pre-grated parmesan often contains anti-caking agents, which affect melting. Freshly grated cheese provides a smoother texture in your alfredo sauce.
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Neglecting pasta timing – Cooking pasta at the wrong time can result in cold or overcooked noodles. Prepare the pasta just before combining it with the sauce.
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Not tasting during cooking – Skipping this step might leave your dish unseasoned. Taste as you go, adjusting salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish covered with foil until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals until hot.
- Stovetop – Reheat over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if necessary to restore creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common queries about Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo:
What is Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo?
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delicious dish that combines seasoned steak and shrimp with creamy alfredo sauce served over pasta, making it a perfect surf and turf meal.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While penne works well, you can substitute with fettuccine, linguine, or any pasta of your choice.
How spicy is Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo?
The spice level depends on the blackened seasoning used. You can adjust it by using more or less seasoning based on your preference.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare components like the sauce and proteins ahead of time. Just combine everything right before serving.
Final Thoughts
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is not only rich in flavor but also versatile enough for various occasions. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress everyone at your dinner table!

Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the culinary delight of Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, a sumptuous dish that beautifully marries land and sea. This creamy pasta features tender steak cubes and succulent blackened shrimp, all enveloped in a rich Alfredo sauce. Ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impressive gathering with friends, this dish promises a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma, Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo not only satisfies hunger but also elevates your dining experience to gourmet levels.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp (raw, deveined)
- 1 pound top sirloin steak (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Blackened seasoning
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Toss the shrimp with blackened seasoning until coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, add seasoned steak cubes; sear for about 3-4 minutes until browned.
- Melt butter in the skillet, add diced onion, and sauté until translucent. Stir in garlic.
- Pour in heavy cream while stirring, then add parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with remaining blackened seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce, then return shrimp and steak to the skillet; toss gently to mix.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 740
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 160mg