Introduction

If you're looking to elevate your weeknight dinner, blackened steak and shrimp pasta is a fantastic choice. This dish combines succulent steak and juicy shrimp with perfectly cooked pasta, all enveloped in a rich, flavorful sauce. It's a restaurant-quality meal that you can easily prepare at home.

The blackening technique not only adds a beautiful crust to the steak and shrimp but also infuses them with a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. This recipe strikes a perfect balance between a creamy sauce and the smoky spices, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds.

Whether you're cooking for family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress. Let's dive into the ingredients and preparation so you can enjoy a plate of this delightful pasta soon!

Ingredients

2 ribeye or sirloin steaks (about 8 oz each)
1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons blackening seasoning
12 ounces fettuccine pasta
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions & Preparation

1. Begin by cooking the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
2. While the pasta cooks, pat the steaks dry with paper towels and season generously with the blackening seasoning on both sides.
3. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned steaks and sear for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare. Adjust the cooking time according to your desired doneness.
4. Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
5. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are pink and opaque, seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove and set aside with the steak.
6. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
8. Add the cooked fettuccine, sliced steak, and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
9. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed and remove from heat.
10. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Blackened Steak and Shrimp Pasta step photo

FAQs

What if my blackening seasoning is too spicy?

You can adjust the amount of seasoning you use or add a pinch of sugar to balance the heat.

How can I add more flavor to the sauce?

Incorporate some lemon zest or a splash of white wine while simmering the cream for extra depth.

What if my shrimp overcooks?

Keep an eye on the shrimp; they cook quickly. Remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink to avoid rubbery texture.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with penne, linguine, or any pasta of your choice.

What if my sauce is too thick?

If the sauce gets too thick, gradually stir in some reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.

Can I make this dish spicier?

You can increase the amount of blackening seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Conclusion

Blackened steak and shrimp pasta is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. With the perfect balance of spice and creaminess, it's a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this pasta dish is the perfect choice. Embrace your inner chef and enjoy the delightful experience of making this easy yet impressive meal.

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