Southern Surf-and-Steak Alfredo Plate

The Southern Surf-and-Steak Alfredo Plate combines bold Cajun-inspired flavors with the luxurious creaminess of classic Alfredo pasta. This dish brings together tender sirloin steak, buttery seasoned shrimp, and rich, silky fettuccine for a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that you can easily prepare at home. The balance of smoky spices, fresh garlic, creamy sauce, and juicy surf-and-turf proteins creates a deeply satisfying dining experience that feels indulgent yet approachable. Perfect for date nights, weekend dinners, or anytime you want a comforting yet elegant plate, this recipe is hearty, flavorful, and beautifully layered. Each component—the steak, the shrimp, and the Alfredo—is cooked separately for maximum flavor, then combined for a stunning final presentation that tastes just as impressive as it looks.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

For the steak

• 1/2 lb sirloin steak
• Salt & black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tbsp butter

For the shrimp (surf)

• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp butter

For the Alfredo pasta

• 8 oz fettuccine
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Optional toppings

• Extra Parmesan
• Crushed red pepper
• Sliced green onions

Preparation Method

Part 1: Preparing the Steak

Step 1: Season the steak

Pat the sirloin steak dry and season generously with salt, black pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Allow it to rest for 10–15 minutes at room temperature to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Sear to perfection

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt until bubbling. Carefully place the steak in the skillet and sear for 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until your desired doneness is reached. A beautiful golden crust should form.

Step 3: Rest and slice

Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for at least 5 minutes. Resting keeps the juices inside, ensuring every slice is tender and flavorful. Once rested, slice the steak into thin strips against the grain.

Part 2: Preparing the Shrimp (Surf)

Step 1: Season the shrimp

In a bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and garlic powder until evenly coated.

Step 2: Sauté in butter

Heat a clean skillet or use the same pan after wiping it lightly. Melt the butter over medium heat and add the shrimp. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep them juicy and tender.

Step 3: Set aside

Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and keep warm.

Part 3: Preparing the Alfredo Pasta

Step 1: Cook the fettuccine

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water, then drain.

Step 2: Make the Alfredo sauce

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir. Allow the mixture to warm gently without boiling. Add the grated Parmesan, black pepper, paprika, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth.

Step 3: Combine pasta and sauce

Add the drained fettuccine directly into the Alfredo sauce and toss until the noodles are fully coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. Stir in the chopped parsley for freshness and color.

Part 4: Assembly

Step 1: Build the plate

Divide the creamy Alfredo pasta between two plates. Arrange the sliced steak on one side and the sautéed shrimp on the other, creating a beautiful surf-and-turf presentation.

Step 2: Add optional toppings

Sprinkle extra Parmesan for richness, crushed red pepper for heat, or sliced green onions for brightness.

Tips for the Best Southern Surf-and-Steak Alfredo Plate

• Use fresh Parmesan for a smoother, richer sauce.
• Don’t boil the Alfredo sauce, as high heat can cause separation.
• Dry the shrimp well before cooking to achieve a good sear.
• Let the steak rest after cooking to preserve juiciness.
• Add Cajun spice gradually if you prefer a milder heat level.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use a different type of steak?

Yes, ribeye, flank steak, or New York strip all work well. Adjust cooking time based on thickness.

Q2: Can I substitute the shrimp for another protein?

Absolutely—scallops, chicken strips, or even salmon pair beautifully with Alfredo.

Q3: How can I make the Alfredo sauce lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.

Q4: Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes—add more Cajun seasoning, crushed red pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo.

Q5: Can I prepare parts of this meal ahead of time?

You can cook the steak and shrimp ahead, but reheat gently. Alfredo is best made fresh for the creamiest texture.

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Conclusion

This Southern Surf-and-Steak Alfredo Plate brings together bold, comforting flavors and elegant textures in a way that feels indulgent without being complicated. The richness of the Alfredo sauce complements the smokiness of the Cajun-seasoned steak and the buttery tenderness of the shrimp, making every bite satisfying and cohesive. Whether you’re preparing a romantic dinner or treating yourself to a luxurious homemade meal, this recipe delivers restaurant-level quality with straightforward, approachable steps. Once assembled, the combination of flavors, aromas, and colors creates an unforgettable dish that is as stunning visually as it is delicious.