Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delicious and indulgent dish perfect for any occasion. This recipe brings together the bold flavors of blackened shrimp and tender steak, all enveloped in a rich, creamy alfredo sauce. It’s a fantastic choice for family dinners, date nights, or casual gatherings. The combination of surf and turf over pasta not only tantalizes the taste buds but also impresses visually.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Savory Flavor Profile: The blackened seasoning adds a smoky, spicy kick that complements the creaminess of the alfredo sauce.
- Easy to Prepare: With a total cook time of just 35 minutes, this dish is manageable for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course for dinner parties or cozy family meals, it suits various dining occasions.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Rich and hearty, this recipe is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters at your table.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers keep well, making it an ideal choice for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
To make Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo successfully, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot
- Tongs
- Whisk
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Ideal for achieving that perfect sear on the steak and shrimp while ensuring even cooking.
- Pot: Used for boiling pasta; a larger pot helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Tongs: Great for flipping shrimp and steak without piercing them, preserving their juices.
- Whisk: Essential for smoothly incorporating ingredients into the alfredo sauce.
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 Alfredo 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
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta 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 evenly coated.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer; cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Season and Cook the Steak
- In the same skillet, add top sirloin cubes along with another teaspoon of blackened seasoning.
- Sear steak on high heat until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes for medium-rare.
- Remove from skillet and let rest.
Step 5: Make the Alfredo Sauce
- Lower heat to medium; melt unsalted butter in the skillet.
- Add diced onion; sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in heavy whipping cream; bring to a simmer while whisking continuously.
- Gradually add grated parmesan cheese; stir until melted and smooth.
Step 6: Combine Everything
- Add cooked pasta to the alfredo sauce; mix well until pasta is evenly coated.
- Fold in cooked shrimp and steak gently to combine.
Step 7: Serve
- Plate your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo hot from the skillet.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Enjoy this delightful dish that perfectly marries flavors!
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. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will make your dish shine.
Plating Ideas
- Use a large, shallow bowl: This allows the creamy alfredo sauce to pool beautifully around the pasta and proteins.
- Garnish with parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds a fresh touch and vibrant color to the dish.
Accompaniments
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad complements the richness of the alfredo perfectly.
- Grilled Vegetables: Add some grilled asparagus or zucchini for a healthy side that balances the meal.
Wine Pairing
- Chardonnay: The buttery notes of Chardonnay pair well with the creamy alfredo sauce.
- Pinot Noir: A light Pinot Noir can enhance the flavors of the steak without overpowering it.
How to Perfect Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
To achieve restaurant-quality Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo at home, follow these expert tips for an exceptional result.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp and high-quality steak will elevate your dish’s taste significantly.
- Don’t overcook shrimp: Cook shrimp until they are just opaque to maintain their tenderness.
- Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of blackened seasoning based on your preference for heat.
- Whisk cream well: Ensure you whisk the heavy cream thoroughly with cheese to prevent clumping in your sauce.
Best Side Dishes for Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Serving side dishes alongside Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo can complete your meal wonderfully. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting pairing with your rich pasta.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These crispy sprouts provide a flavorful contrast and add nutrition to your plate.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds freshness and color while being easy to prepare.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing complement that balances richness.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness provides an interesting contrast to savory flavors in your dish.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and crunch, perfect for summer meals.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:
- Skipping the Seasoning: Not using enough blackened seasoning can dull the flavor. Make sure to coat the shrimp and steak generously for a bold taste.
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Cooking shrimp too long can make them rubbery. Aim for just 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink.
- Using Pre-Grated Cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Always use freshly grated parmesan for a creamy texture.
- Neglecting the Pasta Water: Forgetting to reserve pasta water can limit sauce consistency. Always set aside some before draining for adjustments.
- Rushing the Sauce: Cooking the alfredo sauce too quickly can lead to separation. Use low heat and stir regularly for a smooth finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezing Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- To maintain quality, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap before sealing.
Reheating Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1 minute) at medium power, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo:
What is Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo?
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delicious dish that combines blackened shrimp and steak with creamy alfredo pasta, creating a rich surf-and-turf experience.
Can I customize Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo?
Yes! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even substitute chicken for steak if you prefer.
How do I know when shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture, so keep an eye on them!
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works great, you can try fettuccine or linguine for a different texture.
Is Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo spicy?
It has a mild spice due to the blackening seasoning, but you can adjust the amount based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is not only rich in flavor but also versatile. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or impressing guests. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients! Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Description
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is the ultimate comfort dish that combines bold flavors with a creamy sauce for a deliciously indulgent meal. This recipe features perfectly blackened shrimp and tender top sirloin steak, all enveloped in a rich alfredo sauce served over al dente penne pasta. Ideal for family dinners or special date nights, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant presentation and satisfying taste.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound large raw shrimp (deveined, tail removed)
- 1 pound top sirloin steak (cut into cubes)
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Blackened seasoning (to taste)
- Garlic and onion for flavor
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain.
- Toss shrimp with blackened seasoning and sauté in a skillet with oil until pink; set aside.
- In the same skillet, sear seasoned steak cubes until browned; remove from heat.
- Prepare alfredo sauce by melting butter, sautéing onion and garlic, then adding cream and parmesan until smooth.
- Mix cooked pasta into the sauce, then gently fold in the shrimp and steak.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 780
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 52g
- Saturated Fat: 30g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
