Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delightful dish that perfectly balances rich flavors and creamy textures. This recipe brings together the bold taste of blackened shrimp and tender steak, all enveloped in a luscious alfredo sauce. Ideal for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress anyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of blackened seasoning on both shrimp and steak creates a mouthwatering flavor that is hard to resist.
- Quick Prep Time: With only 20 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking, you can have this delicious meal ready in under an hour.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for romantic dinners or family gatherings, Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo suits various occasions effortlessly.
- Creamy Comfort: The rich alfredo sauce paired with pasta makes each bite feel like a warm hug on your palate.
Tools and Preparation
To make Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly. Having the right equipment will help you create this dish with ease.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking of the steak and shrimp while achieving that perfect blackened crust.
- Pot for boiling pasta: A large pot allows you to cook the penne pasta evenly without overcrowding it.
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
- parsley, (chopped for garnish)
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
While the pasta cooks:
1. In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sprinkle shrimp with blackened seasoning.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and 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 steak seasoned with blackened seasoning:
1. Sear the steak for about 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides.
2. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
Using the same skillet:
1. Melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in heavy whipping cream, stirring constantly until it begins to simmer.
5. Gradually add freshly grated parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.
6. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, and additional blackened seasoning if desired.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return cooked shrimp and steak back into the skillet:
1. Add drained penne pasta.
2. Toss everything together until well coated in sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo! Enjoy this creamy delight that’s sure to please any crowd!
How to Serve Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Here are some suggestions to make your meal unforgettable.
Family Style
- Serve the Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo in a large bowl for a communal atmosphere. Guests can help themselves, creating a relaxed dining experience.
Individual Plates
- Plate the pasta with shrimp and steak on individual dishes. Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of elegance.
With Fresh Bread
- Accompany the dish with crusty bread or garlic bread. This adds texture and is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Salad Pairing
- A light salad can balance the richness of the alfredo sauce. Consider a simple mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette.
Wine Selection
- Pair with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. The acidity complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
How to Perfect Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
To get the most out of your Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, consider these tips for perfecting your dish.
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh shrimp and quality steak make a significant difference in flavor.
- Don’t overcook the seafood: Cook shrimp until they are just pink and opaque to maintain tenderness.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go; feel free to add more blackened seasoning according to your preference.
- Whisk constantly: When making the alfredo sauce, whisk continuously to prevent clumps and ensure smoothness.
- Serve immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right after cooking for optimal taste.
- Garnish thoughtfully: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds color but also enhances flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Pairing side dishes with Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Consider these delicious options:
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing balances the richness of the main dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add a healthy touch to your meal.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus brings both color and crunch alongside your alfredo.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to rich pasta flavors.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds brightness and pairs wonderfully with seafood dishes.
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides fiber and helps cut through the creaminess of alfredo sauce.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are an excellent choice for those who want something heartier on their plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not using enough blackened seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to generously coat both the shrimp and steak for a flavorful dish.
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking can make it rubbery. Cook until just pink and opaque, then remove from heat.
- Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt well and can affect the sauce’s creaminess. Always use freshly grated parmesan for the best texture.
- Not letting the sauce thicken: Rushing the sauce can result in a watery consistency. Allow it to simmer until it coats the back of a spoon for a perfect finish.
- Ignoring pasta cooking time: Undercooked pasta won’t absorb the sauce properly. Follow package instructions for al dente pasta that complements your dish.
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
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
- Use within 1-2 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1 minute at a time), stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to prevent drying out.
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 creamy pasta dish featuring seasoned shrimp and steak, creating a delicious surf and turf experience.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them before cooking for even seasoning and cooking.
How can I customize Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also substitute other proteins if desired.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well, making it great for meal prep throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is not just delightful but also adaptable. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust seasonings according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love its rich flavors!
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a sumptuous dish that beautifully combines the bold flavors of blackened shrimp and tender steak with a rich, creamy alfredo sauce. Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy dinner, this recipe creates an irresistible surf-and-turf experience that tantalizes the taste buds.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound large shrimp (raw, deveined)
- 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
- Kosher salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat oil and cook seasoned shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink; remove from skillet.
- Sear seasoned steak in the same skillet for 4-5 minutes; remove.
- Prepare alfredo sauce by melting butter, sautéing onion and garlic, then adding cream and cheese until smooth.
- Combine shrimp, steak, and pasta in the sauce; toss to coat well.
- Serve with chopped parsley as garnish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
