Blackened Shrimp Alfredo

Craving something rich and comforting with a little kick? Blackened Shrimp Alfredo is a perfect blend of bold flavors and creamy goodness. Spicy, seasoned shrimp pair beautifully with a luscious Alfredo sauce and pasta, making this a dinner that feels indulgent yet easy to prepare.

Total Time: 20minutes

Prep Time: 5minutes

Cook Time: 15minutes

Servings: 5

Blackened Shrimp Alfredo Video Recipe

Ingredients:

1. 12 oz fettuccine (or your preferred pasta)
2. 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3. 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (or blackening seasoning)
4. 2 tablespoons olive oil
5. 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
6. 3 garlic cloves, minced
7. 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
8. 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
9. Salt and pepper, to taste
10. Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
11. Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by filling a big pot with salted water and bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, add the pasta and cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente, which should take around 10 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water to thin the sauce if needed later.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Shrimp

While the pasta cooks, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning, making sure they’re evenly coated. In a spacious skillet, warm up 2 tablespoons of olive oil on medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, cooking for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re blackened and just cooked through. Take the shrimp out of the skillet and place it aside.

Step 3: Start the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and let the butter melt. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until it becomes aromatic, making sure not to let it burn.

Step 4: Add the Cream and Parmesan

Add the heavy cream and let it come to a gentle simmer, stirring often to prevent it from boiling. Once the cream is warm, gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Adjust the Consistency

If the Alfredo sauce feels too thick, add a small splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Mix and tweak until the sauce achieves the thickness you prefer. Season with a little salt and pepper, keeping in mind that the shrimp and Cajun seasoning will add saltiness too.

Step 6: Toss with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the Alfredo sauce until the noodles are well coated. If needed, add more pasta water to keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Combine and Serve

Return the blackened shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing to combine them with the pasta and sauce. If you like an extra spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes.

Step 8: Garnish and Enjoy

Serve the Blackened Shrimp Alfredo immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and a bit more Parmesan if desired. Pair it with a simple salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips:

• Control the Heat: Adjust the spice level by using more or less Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes.
• Creamier Sauce: If you want a richer sauce, you can add 1/4 cup of cream cheese to the Alfredo sauce for extra thickness.
• Leftovers: Keep your leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for a maximum of 2 days. When you’re ready to reheat, just stir in a little cream or milk to make the sauce nice and smooth again.

This Blackened Shrimp Alfredo combines the spicy kick of Cajun-seasoned shrimp with the comforting creaminess of Alfredo sauce, making it the perfect dish for when you want something indulgent with a bit of a punch.

Best shrimp substitutes?

Here are some great shrimp substitutes, depending on dietary preferences and availability:

1. Scallops: Scallops have a similar texture to shrimp and a sweet, mild flavor. They cook quickly and can be seared or sautéed just like shrimp. They’re a great substitute in pasta dishes or seafood recipes.
2. Chicken: For a non-seafood option, chicken is a versatile substitute. You can use diced chicken breast or thighs, seasoned and sautéed in place of shrimp. It pairs well with creamy or spicy sauces, much like shrimp does.
3. Tofu:For a plant-based option, firm or extra-firm tofu works well. Press it to remove excess water, then season and pan-fry or grill it. Tofu absorbs flavors from sauces and spices, making it a great alternative for vegetarians or vegans.
4. Lobster or Crab: If you want to keep it seafood-focused but don’t have shrimp, lobster or crab are luxurious substitutes. They have a rich, sweet flavor and work well in creamy or buttery dishes like Alfredo or seafood pasta.
5. Mushrooms: Mushrooms, especially varieties like king oyster or portobello, offer a meaty texture and earthy flavor that can mimic shrimp. Sauté or grill them with spices for a vegan or vegetarian-friendly option in pasta, stir-fries, or salads.
6. Cuttlefish or Squid (Calamari): Squid or cuttlefish have a slightly chewy texture, similar to shrimp, and can be used in a variety of seafood dishes. They cook quickly and are perfect in stir-fries, pasta, or grilled preparations.
7. Tempeh: Another plant-based alternative, tempeh is firmer than tofu and has a slightly nutty flavor. It can be marinated and pan-fried, giving it a great texture in shrimp-based recipes.

These substitutes offer a range of flavors and textures, making it easy to adapt your dish based on personal preferences or dietary needs.

Blackened Shrimp Alfredo Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Blackened Shrimp Alfredo Health Benefits

1. High in Protein: Shrimp is a lean source of protein, which helps build and repair muscle tissue.
2. Rich in Healthy Fats: Olive oil and shrimp provide heart-healthy fats that support cardiovascular health.
3. Boosts Energy: The pasta offers a good source of carbohydrates, giving you an energy boost.
4. Supports Bone Health: Parmesan and heavy cream provide calcium, essential for strong bones and teeth.
5. Promotes Brain Health: Shrimp is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support cognitive function and brain health.
6. Anti-Inflammatory: The garlic and olive oil have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body.
7. Aids Digestion: Garlic supports digestive health and can help improve gut function.
8. Improves Skin Health: The antioxidants in shrimp and garlic may promote healthy, glowing skin.
9. Boosts Immune System: Garlic and parsley are known for their immune-boosting benefits.
10. Provides Essential Vitamins: The dish contains vitamin A from the butter and cream, which supports eye health.
11. Storage Instructions
12. Refrigeration: Keep your leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 48 hours. Be sure to cool the dish before storing to prevent condensation.
13. Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the creamy Alfredo sauce may separate when reheated.

Reheat & Reuse Instructions

Reheating

Warm it slowly on the stovetop at a medium-low temperature. Add a splash of cream or milk to revive the Alfredo sauce and stir frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking. Heat until warmed through.

Reuse

• Use leftover shrimp and pasta as a filling for wraps or sandwiches.
• Toss the shrimp into a salad for a flavorful seafood addition.
• Incorporate leftovers into a frittata or quiche for a savory breakfast twist.

FAQ’s

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