Steak and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of a dish that flawlessly marries bold, smoky grilled flavors with rich, creamy comfort, then this Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is exactly what you’ve been waiting for. This indulgent recipe brings together succulent cubes of Cajun-seasoned ribeye and juicy shrimp, nestled atop perfectly al dente penne pasta coated in a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce. The magic lies not only in the combination of surf and turf but also in the careful layering of textures and tastes—from the caramelized grill marks to the velvety cheese blend, making every forkful a celebration of flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is in its simplicity and balance. Each ingredient plays a critical role, whether it’s the Cajun seasoning adding that signature spicy kick, the beef tallow boosting the grilled proteins’ richness, or the duo of Italian cheeses creating that irresistibly creamy sauce. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this unforgettable dish:

• 2 whole ribeye steaks, cut into cubes: The star protein with plenty of marbling for flavor and tenderness.
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (for steak): Brings heat and aromatic spices that elevate the beef beautifully.
• Melted beef tallow (as needed for steak): Adds a rich, beefy fat that locks in juiciness and enhances searing.
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Provides the perfect tender and slightly sweet seafood counterpart.
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (for shrimp): Matches the seasoning on the steak for a cohesive flavor profile.
• Melted beef tallow (as needed for shrimp): Ensures a rich, savory cooking medium for the shrimp.
• 16 ounces penne pasta: A sturdy pasta that holds the creamy Alfredo sauce and stands up to the proteins.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature: The sauce’s smooth foundation, melting to coat every noodle.
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Romano cheese: Adds sharp, tangy notes that cut through the cream.
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Provides nutty, salty depth and richness.
• Fresh chives, chopped for garnish: A bright, herbaceous finish that adds color and a mild onion flavor.

How to Make Steak and Shrimp Alfredo

Step 1: Season the Proteins

Start by tossing the cubed ribeye steak in melted beef tallow and Cajun seasoning until every piece is well coated. Doing the same with the shrimp in a separate bowl ensures each protein is infused with that signature spice mixture, setting the stage for incredible flavor after grilling.

Step 2: Heat the Grill

Fire up your grill to a high heat of around 400°F. Make sure the grates are clean to get those gorgeous grill marks and to prevent sticking. This step is crucial because the high heat will sear the proteins quickly, locking in their juices.

Step 3: Cook the Steak

Place the seasoned ribeye cubes on the hot grill and cook for 3-4 minutes, turning to achieve a uniform sear on all sides. Depending on your preferred doneness, this will produce juicy, flavorful steak bites with a slight char that’s absolutely irresistible. Once cooked, transfer them off the grill and allow them to rest briefly—this rest period helps keep the meat tender and juicy.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

While the steak rests, heat a cast iron skillet right on the grill and add a bit of melted beef tallow. Toss in your seasoned shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes, just until they turn a vibrant pink and firm up. Overcooking will toughen the shrimp, so keep a close eye—they should be tender and juicy.

Step 5: Prepare the Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Save a couple of ounces of the starchy pasta water before draining; this precious liquid will transform your Alfredo sauce from a simple cheese toss into a silky, glossy coating for the noodles.

Step 6: Create and Finish the Alfredo Sauce

Place the room temperature butter into your serving bowl and flatten it out a bit. Add the hot pasta on top and toss gently, allowing the butter to melt evenly among the noodles. Next, sprinkle over the freshly grated Romano and Parmesan cheeses then slowly add the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together vigorously until the sauce comes together with a creamy, luxurious texture that clings to every piece of penne.

Step 7: Assemble and Serve

Finally, pile the grilled ribeye cubes and succulent shrimp over the creamy pasta, then scatter freshly chopped chives on top for a pop of green and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while warm, and prepare for compliments as your family or guests swoon over this extravagant yet straightforward Steak and Shrimp Alfredo.

How to Serve Steak and Shrimp Alfredo

Garnishes

Chopped fresh chives sprinkled over the dish add bright color and a gentle onion bite that perfectly complements the richness of the sauce and the smoky proteins. You can also experiment with fresh parsley or even a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

Consider pairing this indulgent pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess, or some grilled seasonal vegetables for added texture and freshness. Garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette also make wonderful companions as they’re perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, serve the Steak and Shrimp Alfredo in warm bowls and garnish with edible flowers or microgreens to elevate the visual appeal. Portion the pasta on each plate and artfully arrange the steak and shrimp on top, finishing with a light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. For casual gatherings, family-style serving in a large decorative platter invites everyone to dig in and share the hearty goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Steak and Shrimp Alfredo in airtight containers and keep refrigerated for up to 2 days. Because the sauce has dairy and butter, it’s best enjoyed fresh, but proper refrigeration will preserve the flavors and textures fairly well.

Freezing

Freezing this dish is not ideal because the creamy Alfredo sauce can separate when thawed. If you do freeze leftovers, place the pasta and proteins separately in freezer-safe containers and consume within a month for the best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers slowly on the stove over low heat to prevent the sauce from breaking. Add a splash of milk or cream and stir continuously to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Avoid using a microwave at high power, as it can cause the sauce to separate and the shrimp to overcook.

FAQs

Can I use another cut of steak instead of ribeye?

Absolutely! While ribeye is wonderfully marbled and flavorful, other cuts like sirloin or strip steak can work well too. Just be mindful that leaner cuts might cook faster and can dry out if overcooked, so adjust grilling times accordingly.

Is beef tallow necessary, or can I use another fat?

Beef tallow adds a rich depth of flavor and helps with searing, but you can substitute with clarified butter or a high smoke point oil like avocado oil if you prefer. The flavor might be slightly different, but the cooking process remains the same.

How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?

The Cajun seasoning delivers a warm, moderate heat with aromatic spices such as paprika, garlic, and black pepper. If you prefer less spice, you can reduce the amount or opt for a milder seasoning blend. Conversely, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.

Can I make the Alfredo sauce dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, you could experiment with plant-based butters and nut-based cheeses. However, the signature creamy texture of this Steak and Shrimp Alfredo comes primarily from real butter and Romano/Parmesan cheeses, so the flavor and mouthfeel will be different.

What kind of pasta works best with Alfredo sauce?

Penne is a great choice as it holds the sauce well in its tubes, but you can also use fettuccine, rigatoni, or even cavatappi. The key is to choose a pasta that has enough surface area to cling to the creamy sauce without getting overwhelmed.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe that this Steak and Shrimp Alfredo is a showstopper that perfectly balances elegance and comfort food vibes. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or craving a decadent weeknight treat, this recipe brings joy with every bite. So go on, fire up that grill, gather your ingredients, and dive in—once you try it, it might just become your new favorite dish to share with friends and family.

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