This rich dish combines seared top sirloin and shrimp with a creamy, spiced alfredo sauce. It is a hearty meal that brings a surf-and-turf style to a pasta base.

List of ingredients

8 ounces penne pasta – for a tubular shape that holds sauce.
1 pound large shrimp (raw, deveined, tail removed) – main seafood protein.
1 teaspoon blackened seasoning – for seasoning the shrimp.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil – for searing shrimp.
1 pound top sirloin steak (cut into 1-inch cubes) – lean beef protein.
1 teaspoon blackened seasoning – for seasoning the steak.
1/4 cup (57 g) unsalted butter – for sautéing.
1 small yellow onion (diced, about 1/2 cup) – aromatic base.
2 teaspoons garlic (minced) – aromatic base.
2 cups (476 g) heavy whipping cream – sauce thickener.
2 cups (200 g) parmesan cheese (freshly grated) – sauce flavor and body.
1 tablespoon blackened seasoning – for seasoning the sauce.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt – for flavor balance.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – for flavor balance.
Parsley (chopped) – for garnish.

step-by-step instructions

Prepare the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high heat. Add penne and cook al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the remaining water and set the pasta aside.
Sear the shrimp: Season the raw shrimp evenly with blackened seasoning. Heat vegetable oil in a 13-inch skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.
Brown the steak: Season the steak cubes evenly with blackened seasoning. Increase the skillet heat to high and add butter, allowing it to melt. Place steak in the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until browned outside and pink inside. Transfer to the plate with shrimp and tent with foil.
Sauté aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Add diced onions to the skillet and cook until softened, which takes about 3-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
Create the sauce: Pour in heavy whipping cream and 1/4 to 1/2 cup of the reserved pasta water. Stir in parmesan cheese, blackened seasoning, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss until evenly coated. Use more pasta water if the sauce needs to be thinner to reach your desired consistency.
Assemble and serve: Top the pasta with the cooked shrimp and steak. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Professional Cooking Tips

Use High Heat to Create a Proper Sear

High temperatures prevent the steak from steaming in its own juices. This ensures a dark brown crust forms on the outside while the inside remains tender. Ensure the pan is hot before adding the meat.

Avoid Overcooking Shrimp to Maintain Texture

Shrimp cook very quickly and can become rubbery if left in the pan too long. Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn opaque and curl into a C-shape. Do not overcook them during the reheating phase.

Utilize Starchy Pasta Water for Emulsification

The starch in the reserved pasta water helps the Alfredo sauce bind to the noodles. Add it gradually to the cream and cheese mixture. This creates a silky texture that does not separate easily.

Use Freshly Grated Parmesan for Better Melting

Pre-shredded cheeses often contain cellulose or cornstarch to prevent clumping in the bag. These additives can make a sauce grainy. Freshly grated cheese melts smoothly into the heavy cream.

Ingredient Substitutions

Alternative Beef Cuts for Variety

Ribeye or New York strip can be used for more marbling and a richer flavor profile. Filet mignon provides a leaner, more tender option. Adjust searing times based on the thickness of the cut.

Seafood Alternatives to Shrimp

Sea scallops can replace shrimp for a different texture and sweet flavor. Lobster chunks also work well in this creamy sauce. Ensure they are seasoned with the same blackened blend for consistency.

Pasta Shape Options for Sauce Retention

Fettuccine is a classic choice for Alfredo sauce. Cavatappi or rigatoni are excellent alternatives because their shapes trap the heavy sauce effectively. Always cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness.

Cream Substitutions for Different Thicknesses

Half-and-half can be used as a replacement for heavy whipping cream. Note that the sauce will be thinner and may require a longer simmer time to reduce. You can also add a small amount of cream cheese for extra thickness.

Enhancing the Flavor Profile

Making Homemade Blackened Seasoning

Combine smoked paprika, cayenne, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, and dried oregano. This allows you to control the sodium levels and the amount of heat. Store the mixture in an airtight jar for future use.

Adjusting Heat Levels for Mild Palates

Use less cayenne or replace it with sweet paprika for a milder version of the dish. For those who prefer more heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. Always taste as you go.

Adding Smoky Elements to the Sauce

Incorporate smoked paprika specifically into the sauce seasoning. This adds a depth of flavor that mimics a charcoal grill. It complements the richness of the butter and cream.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Adding Green Vegetables for Balance

Steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach provides a nutritional balance to the rich cream. These can be tossed directly into the pasta before serving. Roasted asparagus is another great pairing for steak and shrimp.

Choosing a Light Side Dish

A light arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the heaviness of the Alfredo sauce. Sliced cucumbers with apple cider vinegar are another fresh option. This prevents the meal from feeling too heavy.

Garlic Bread Accompaniments

Toasted garlic bread or a warm baguette helps soak up the extra sauce left on the plate. Brush bread with melted butter and minced garlic before toasting. This adds a crunchy texture to the meal.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Proper Refrigerator Storage

Cool the dish to room temperature before placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Stovetop Reheating Method

Place the pasta in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce and prevent it from separating. Stir gently to avoid breaking the noodles or overcooking the seafood.

Microwave Reheating Tips

Use medium power and stir the pasta every minute. This ensures the heat is distributed evenly and prevents the edges from drying out. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.

Preparation and Planning

Implementing Mise en Place

Chop onions and garlic and cube the steak before turning on the stove. Having all ingredients measured and ready prevents the garlic from burning while you prep other items. This leads to a smoother cooking process.

Pre-searing Proteins in Advance

You can sear the steak and shrimp earlier in the day. Keep them chilled and reheat them quickly in the pan just before combining with the finished sauce. This reduces the active cooking time during dinner prep.

Batching the Alfredo Sauce

The base Alfredo sauce can be made in a larger quantity. Store the extra sauce in the freezer for future pasta dishes. Thaw and heat it slowly on the stove before adding fresh proteins.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Fixing a Separated Alfredo Sauce

If the sauce breaks and looks oily, whisk in a tablespoon of warm water or a splash of cream. Keep the heat on low to avoid further separation. Constant stirring helps maintain the emulsion.

Reducing Steak Toughness

Let the steak cubes rest for a few minutes after searing before adding them to the pasta. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat. Overcooking the steak will result in a chewy texture.

Managing Sauce Thickness

If the sauce is too thick, stir in more of the reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time. If it is too thin, simmer the sauce for another 2-3 minutes without the pasta. This reduces the liquid through evaporation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry with paper towels before seasoning. Wet shrimp will steam instead of sear, preventing the blackened crust from forming.

Is this dish very spicy?

The heat level depends on the specific blackened seasoning used. Most brands contain cayenne, giving it a mild to moderate kick, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Can I make this with a different protein?

Yes, you can use chicken breast instead of steak. Follow the same seasoning and searing process for the chicken, ensuring it is cooked through before adding it to the pasta.