Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta – A Bold, Creamy Crowd-Pleaser

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If you’re looking to elevate your next dinner night with something that’s hearty, bold, and unforgettable, this Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta will knock it out of the park. This dish is a mouthwatering fusion of spicy Cajun-seasoned proteins and a creamy, comforting Alfredo base tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting guests, or treating yourself to a luxurious homemade meal, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavors with ease.

This is not your ordinary Alfredo pasta. The combination of smoky, pan-seared sirloin steak and tender, juicy shrimp brings texture and richness, while the Alfredo sauce—infused with a surprising twist using cream of mushroom soup—adds an earthy creaminess. The end result is a Cajun pasta dish that’s bold, balanced, and packed with depth.

Who This Recipe Is For

This recipe is perfect for home cooks who:

  • Love Cajun or Southern-inspired flavors.
  • Want a quick, satisfying dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste.
  • Appreciate meals that are both comforting and elegant.
  • Need a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings or romantic dinners.

Even if you’re new to making pasta sauces from scratch, don’t worry—this recipe simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor. It’s also a fantastic option for busy weekends, meal prep, or any time you want to wow someone with your cooking skills.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Steak:

  • 1 pound boneless sirloin steak, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Shrimp:

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Alfredo Sauce:

  • 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Pasta:

  • 1 pound penne pasta

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Flip-flops
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Colander

How to Make Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking your penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Tip:Save ½ cup of pasta water before draining. It can be used later to loosen the sauce if needed.

2. Season the Steak and Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and black pepper. Coat the thinly sliced ​​sirloin steak and the peeled shrimp with this Cajun seasoning blend.

Shortcut Tip:Use pre-sliced ​​stir-fry steak or pre-cooked shrimp if you’re short on time.

3. Cook the Steak

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a splash of oil if needed. Sauté or grill the steak slices for 2–3 minutes per side, or until your desired level of doneness is reached. Set aside.

4. Cook the Shrimp

In the same pan, cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Shrimp cooks fast, so keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking.

5. Make the Alfredo Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, grated Parmesan, oregano, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir frequently and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, or until it thickens to your liking.

Flavor Note:The mushroom soup brings an umami undertone that sets this Alfredo apart from traditional cream-based versions.

6. Combine the Proteins and Sauce

Add the cooked steak and shrimp to the Alfredo sauce. Toss gently until everything is coated and heated through.

7. Toss with Pasta

Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

8. Serve and Enjoy

Plate the pasta generously, ensuring each serving gets a good mix of steak and shrimp. Sprinkle with a little extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper for presentation.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

  • Pasta Swap: Try fettuccine, linguine, or rigatoni if ​​penne isn’t available.
  • Protein Options: Use chicken breast instead of steak or go full seafood with scallops or crab.
  • Sauce Variation: Replace cream of mushroom soup with heavy cream and a splash of chicken broth for a more traditional Alfredo.
  • Spice Level: Adjust cayenne pepper to your preference, or add hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for more color and nutrients.

How to Store Leftovers

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating works too—just cover and stir halfway.
  • Freezing: Not ideal, as cream-based sauces can separate when thawed. However, if needed, freeze in individual portions and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve with Cajun Shr

Side Dishes:

  • Garlic Bread: The perfect tool for mopping up any leftover sauce.
  • Caesar Salad: A refreshing contrast to the richness of the Alfredo.
  • Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus: Adds texture and balance to the meal.

Drink Pairings:

  • White Wine: A chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and shrimp.
  • Red Wine: A light Pinot Noir pairs well with the steak without overpowering the dish.
  • Sparkling Water with Lemon: A great non-alcoholic choice to refresh the palate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare all components ahead and store separately. Combine and reheat just before serving for best results.

Can I use frozen shrimp or steak?
Absolutely—just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.

Is it very spicy?
The cayenne gives it a kick, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can reduce or omit it for a milder version.

Can I double this recipe?
Yes! It scales well. Just use a larger pot or skillet to ensure even mixing.

Is there a gluten-free option?
Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup alternative.

Final Thoughts

Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo Pasta is the kind of meal that combines comfort, spice, and indulgence all in one bowl. It’s satisfying, rich, and layered with flavor—perfect for both weekend cravings and special occasions. With its easy preparation and big reward, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

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