Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Protein

01 - 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
02 - 8 oz steak (ribeye, sirloin, or filet), sliced into strips
03 - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (divided)
04 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
05 - 1 tablespoon butter

→ For the Pasta

06 - 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
07 - 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)

→ For the Alfredo Sauce

08 - 3 tablespoons butter
09 - 4 cloves garlic, minced
10 - 1.5 cups heavy cream
11 - 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
12 - 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 0.5 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional, for extra spice)
14 - 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
15 - 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

→ For Garnish

16 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
17 - 0.5 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

# Instructions:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
02 - Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season steak with 0.5 tablespoon Cajun seasoning and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until desired doneness. Remove steak from pan and set aside.
03 - In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Season shrimp with 0.5 tablespoon Cajun seasoning and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
04 - In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and whisk until smooth. Stir in Parmesan cheese, black pepper, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
05 - Add the drained pasta to the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat. Stir in the cooked steak and shrimp, mixing everything together.
06 - Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

# Notes:

01 - Ribeye is the juiciest steak choice, but sirloin or filet work well too.
02 - Use large shrimp (16-20 count) for the best texture.
03 - For extra spice, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
04 - For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk.