Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo combines the richness of a creamy Alfredo sauce with the bold flavors of blackened seasoning. This dish is a perfect blend of spicy, savory, and creamy elements, making it an impressive choice for a special dinner or a cozy night in. Follow these detailed instructions to create a flavorful meal that will tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
For the Blackening Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground oregano
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to heat preference)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Steak and Shrimp:
- 2 steaks (such as ribeye or sirloin), about 6-8 ounces each
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Olive oil
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces fettuccine or your choice of pasta
Instructions
1. Prepare the Blackening Seasoning
1.1. Combine Spices: In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground thyme, ground oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your heat preference.
1.2. Set Aside: Set the seasoning mixture aside until you are ready to use it.
2. Prepare the Steak and Shrimp
2.1. Season the Steak: Rub the blackening seasoning generously onto both sides of the steaks. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2.2. Season the Shrimp: Toss the shrimp with a bit of olive oil and a portion of the blackening seasoning. Ensure the shrimp are evenly coated.
2.3. Heat the Pan: Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan.
2.4. Cook the Steak: Place the steaks in the hot pan and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer your steak more well-done. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of the steaks and your desired level of doneness.
2.5. Cook the Shrimp: In the same pan, add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and opaque. Remove both the steak and shrimp from the pan and set aside to rest.
3. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
3.1. Melt Butter: In the same pan, reduce the heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter and let it melt completely.
3.2. Cook Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3.3. Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic and butter. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 3-4 minutes, or until it starts to thicken.
3.4. Add Parmesan: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
3.5. Season: Season the Alfredo sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
4. Cook the Pasta
4.1. Boil Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add a pinch of salt. Cook the fettuccine or your choice of pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
4.2. Drain Pasta: Drain the pasta and set it aside.
5. Combine and Serve
5.1. Slice Steak: Slice the cooked steak into strips or bite-sized pieces.
5.2. Add Pasta to Sauce: Toss the cooked pasta in the Alfredo sauce, ensuring it is well-coated.
5.3. Add Steak and Shrimp: Gently fold the sliced steak and cooked shrimp into the pasta and sauce mixture.
5.4. Serve: Divide the pasta mixture among serving plates. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
5.5. Optional Garnish: Add fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra touch of flavor and color.
Tips for Success
- Blackening Seasoning: For an authentic blackened flavor, make sure to use a generous amount of seasoning and sear the steak and shrimp at a high temperature to achieve a crispy, flavorful crust.
- Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta until just al dente. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot Alfredo sauce.
- Resting the Steak: Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy steak.
- Creamy Sauce: If the Alfredo sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of pasta cooking water or additional cream.
Variations
- Vegetable Additions: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to the pasta for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Spicy Kick: If you like extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce.
- Different Proteins: Swap the steak and shrimp for other proteins like chicken or scallops, following the same seasoning and cooking method.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if necessary. Stir frequently to ensure even heating.
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a decadent and satisfying dish that combines the bold flavors of blackened seasoning with a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting meal at home, this recipe offers a delicious blend of textures and flavors that are sure to impress. Follow these steps for a flavorful, restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy
