Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo

Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delightful dish that perfectly marries the richness of creamy pasta with the bold flavors of blackened shrimp and tender steak. This dish is ideal for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home. With its robust taste and creamy texture, Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo stands out as a versatile meal that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe can be made in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The blackened seasoning adds a delicious kick, elevating the flavors of the shrimp and steak.
• Creamy Comfort: The rich alfredo sauce pairs beautifully with pasta, creating a comforting finish to each bite.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for date nights, family gatherings, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
• Appealing Presentation: The colorful mix of ingredients makes this dish visually stunning on any table.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make all the difference in your cooking experience. With these essential kitchen tools, you’ll be well-equipped to whip up Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo effortlessly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cooking spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing steak and shrimp to achieve that desired blackened flavor.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in your ingredient amounts for consistent results.

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

For Garnish

• Parsley (chopped)

How to Make Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin 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 over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil. Season the shrimp with blackened seasoning. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. 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 until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside with the shrimp.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add unsalted butter and let it melt before adding diced onion. Sauté until soft, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Pour in heavy whipping cream while stirring constantly. Gradually add freshly grated parmesan cheese into the mixture until melted and smooth. Season with additional blackened seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Add cooked pasta back into the sauce along with steak and shrimp. Gently toss everything together until well-coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Spoon onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm.

Enjoy your homemade Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo!

How to Serve Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo

Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate this rich pasta meal.

Plating Suggestions

• Elegant Presentation: Use a large, shallow bowl to serve the pasta. Twirl the penne and create a nest in the center, then arrange the blackened steak and shrimp on top for an impressive visual.
• Garnish Generously: Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and extra grated parmesan for added flavor and color.

Accompaniments

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm, buttery garlic bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up the creamy alfredo sauce.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish. Include ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or asparagus adds a nutritious touch. Lightly steam and season with salt and pepper for a fresh complement.

How to Perfect Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo

Creating the perfect Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo involves attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your dish is unforgettable.

• Bold Seasoning: Use a generous amount of blackened seasoning on both shrimp and steak for maximum flavor. Don’t be shy; it’s meant to be bold!
• Proper Cooking Temperature: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp and steak. This helps achieve that signature blackened crust.
• Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and freshly grated parmesan cheese. They significantly enhance the taste of your alfredo sauce.
• Creamy Consistency: Stir constantly while adding cream to avoid curdling. This helps achieve that smooth, luxurious sauce texture you desire.

Best Side Dishes for Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo

To complement your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, consider these delicious side dishes that add variety to your meal.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, parmesan cheese, and creamy Caesar dressing.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, they become crispy on the outside and tender inside.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a tangy dressing adds freshness alongside your rich pasta.
4. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Naturally sweet baked sweet potatoes provide a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the main dish.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter makes for a fun finger food that pairs well with steak and shrimp.
6. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs complements the creamy sauce beautifully without overpowering it.
7. Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini adds extra vegetables while still allowing you to enjoy that creamy sauce.
8. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for a refreshing appetizer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully!

• Using pre-cooked shrimp: Pre-cooked shrimp can become rubbery when reheated. Always use raw shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your steak and shrimp properly can result in bland dishes. Make sure to coat them well with blackened seasoning for a rich taste.
• Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and loses its bite. Cook the penne until al dente, as it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
• Adding cheese too quickly: If you add cheese directly to boiling cream, it may clump. Gradually stir in the parmesan cheese after removing the sauce from heat for a smooth finish.
• Not letting the steak rest: Cutting into steak immediately after cooking can cause juices to run out. Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes before cutting for maximum juiciness.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 20 minutes).
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat over low medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo?

Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delicious dish combining seasoned shrimp and tender steak in a creamy alfredo sauce over pasta.

Can I customize Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition or swap out the proteins based on your preference.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using whole grain pasta or reducing the amount of cheese. You can also substitute heavy cream with a lighter option like half-and-half or milk.

What sides go well with Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo?

Pair this dish with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for balance. Garlic bread also makes a great addition!

Conclusion

Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is not just flavorful; it’s also versatile enough to suit various tastes. With customizable options available, you can make this dish your own. Give it a try today!

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