Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a mouthwatering dish that brings together the rich flavors of blackened shrimp and tender steak in a creamy alfredo sauce. Perfect for date nights, family dinners, or special occasions, this recipe combines surf and turf elements that will impress anyone at your table. The creamy pasta ties everything together, making it a unique and satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich Flavor: The combination of blackened seasoning with the creamy alfredo sauce creates a delightful explosion of taste.
- Quick to Prepare: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, you can serve up an impressive dinner in no time.
- Versatile Dish: This recipe works well for both casual weeknight dinners and more formal gatherings.
- Satisfying Ingredients: The hearty steak and succulent shrimp provide a filling meal that everyone will love.
- Easy Cleanup: Most steps are done in one pan, making cleanup simple after enjoying your delicious meal.
Tools and Preparation
To create this incredible Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: Ideal for cooking the shrimp and steak evenly while allowing for easy stirring.
- Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures you have enough space to cook the penne pasta to perfection without sticking.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and safe.
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 for garnish)
How to Make Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta 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 large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add seasoned shrimp to the skillet; cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Steak
- In the same skillet, add cubed top sirloin steak seasoned with another teaspoon of blackened seasoning.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove from skillet.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add diced onion; sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy whipping cream; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted; season with remaining blackened seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper.
Step 6: Combine Everything
- Add cooked penne pasta back into the sauce along with cooked shrimp and steak.
- Toss everything together until well combined; heat through for another couple of minutes.
Step 7: Serve
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving hot! Enjoy your delightful 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 its flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Casual Platter
- Serve the dish on a large platter for family-style dining. This allows everyone to help themselves.
Individual Bowls
- Present the blackened steak and shrimp alfredo in individual bowls for a more personal touch, making it perfect for dinner parties.
Garnished Plates
- Top each serving with fresh parsley or grated parmesan cheese. This adds color and freshness to the dish.
Paired with Bread
- Accompany the meal with warm garlic bread or a crusty baguette. This is great for soaking up the delicious alfredo sauce.
Salad Side
- Serve alongside a crisp Caesar salad. The crunch of the salad complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

How to Perfect Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Creating the perfect Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo takes practice. Here are some essential tips for achieving optimal flavor and texture.
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh shrimp and top sirloin to ensure the best taste.
- Control Heat Levels: Use medium-high heat when cooking steak and shrimp to achieve that ideal blackened crust without overcooking.
- Whisk Cream Thoroughly: When adding heavy cream, whisk it well with other ingredients to prevent lumps in your sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! You can always add more seasoning, but it’s harder to fix if it becomes too salty.
- Pair Wisely: Consider pairing with light sides like salads or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish.
- Rest Your Meat: Allow cooked steak to rest before slicing it. This helps retain its juices, making each bite tender.
Best Side Dishes for Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
Serving Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo can be enhanced with some complementary side dishes. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread
A classic choice that pairs beautifully with creamy pasta, perfect for sopping up sauce. - Caesar Salad
Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing adds freshness. - Steamed Broccoli
Lightly seasoned broccoli offers a healthy crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta. - Roasted Asparagus
Drizzle asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting; it adds a nice earthy flavor. - Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of alfredo sauce. - Corn on the Cob
Sweet corn complements the savory elements of your main dish; grill or boil for best results. - Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes can be an indulgent addition, soaking up any leftover sauce beautifully. - Grilled Zucchini
Lightly grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor while keeping things light and healthy on your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to make mistakes when preparing Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Overcooking shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. Avoid overcooking by removing them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
- Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents, affecting texture. Always use freshly grated parmesan for a creamy sauce.
- Ignoring seasoning balance: Too much or too little seasoning can ruin the dish. Taste as you cook to find the right balance of flavors.
- Skipping the resting time for steak: Letting steak rest after cooking ensures juiciness. Allow it to sit for at least 5 minutes before serving.
- Not saving pasta water: Pasta water adds creaminess and helps the sauce adhere. Reserve a cup before draining your penne.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream or pasta water to help loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo.
What is Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo?
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a delicious dish that combines blackened seasoned shrimp and steak with creamy alfredo pasta.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While penne works well, you can substitute with fettuccine, linguine, or any pasta you prefer.
How do I make it less spicy?
To reduce spice levels, use less blackened seasoning or opt for a milder blend that suits your taste.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can pre-cook the shrimp and steak, then combine everything just before serving.
Final Thoughts
Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is not only rich in flavor but also offers versatility for customization. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress!

Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Blackened Steak and Shrimp Alfredo, a luxurious dish that effortlessly combines the best of land and sea. This creamy pasta dish features tender steak and succulent shrimp, both seasoned to perfection with a zesty blackening spice. Ideal for special occasions or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is sure to impress your guests with its vibrant taste and stunning presentation. With easy preparation in just under 35 minutes, you can enjoy a gourmet meal without the hassle. Serve it warm, garnished with fresh parsley, for an unforgettable dining experience.
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
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Season shrimp with blackened seasoning and cook in a skillet until pink; set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook seasoned steak cubes until browned; remove from skillet.
- In the skillet, melt butter, sauté onions and garlic, then add cream and parmesan until smooth.
- Stir in pasta, shrimp, and steak until well combined; heat through.
- Serve hot with chopped parsley for garnish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 780
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 180mg