Blackened Steak and Salmon Alfredo

This luxurious pasta dish combines tender blackened steak and flaky salmon in a rich, creamy alfredo sauce. The contrast between the bold, spiced exterior of the proteins and the velvety sauce creates an unforgettable dining experience. I created this recipe when looking for something special to serve at a dinner party without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination might seem unexpected, but the flavors complement each other perfectly.

I first tried this combination when I had leftover salmon and steak in my refrigerator. What started as a creative way to use leftovers quickly became a family favorite requested at least twice a month. My husband, who typically prefers simpler dishes, asks for this by name.

Essential Ingredients

• Cavatappi Pasta (8 ounces): The spiral shape captures the creamy sauce in every bite and provides the perfect texture contrast to the tender proteins
• Top Sirloin Steak (1 pound): Cut into 1 inch cubes for quick cooking and maximum flavor absorption from the blackened seasoning
• Salmon Fillets (1 pound): Remove the skin and cut into 1 inch pieces to ensure even cooking alongside the steak
• Blackened Seasoning (3 tablespoons total): This spice blend brings complexity and mild heat that transforms ordinary proteins into something extraordinary
• Unsalted Butter (¼ cup): Creates a rich foundation for searing the steak and adds silky texture to the final dish
• Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon): Its neutral flavor and high smoke point make it perfect for searing salmon without overpowering its delicate taste
• Yellow Onion (1 small, diced): Provides aromatic sweetness that balances the richness of the cream and cheese
• Minced Garlic (2 teaspoons): Adds depth and warmth to the sauce without overwhelming the seafood
• Heavy Whipping Cream (2 cups): Creates the luxurious base of the alfredo sauce that coats every bite
• Freshly Grated Parmesan (2 cups): Use freshly grated for proper melting and authentic flavor that pre packaged versions simply cannot match
• Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for enhancing all other flavors in the dish

Cooking Method

Pasta Preparation:

Start by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil before adding your cavatappi pasta. Cook according to package directions until just al dente, typically 8 10 minutes. Before draining, scoop out and reserve a full cup of the starchy pasta water which will help thicken and bind your sauce later. Drain pasta but do not rinse to preserve the starches that help sauce adhere.

Steak Excellence:

While pasta cooks, prepare your steak by patting the cubed sirloin completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing. Toss the cubes thoroughly with 1 teaspoon of blackened seasoning, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Heat a large heavy skillet over medium high heat and add the unsalted butter. Once butter is melted and begins to foam slightly but before it browns, add the seasoned steak cubes in a single layer with space between pieces. Allow them to sear undisturbed for about 90 seconds before flipping to sear additional sides. For medium rare doneness, the total cooking time should be approximately 3 4 minutes. Transfer to a warm plate and loosely cover with foil.

Salmon Mastery:

For the salmon, follow similar preparation by ensuring pieces are thoroughly dried and evenly coated with 1 teaspoon blackened seasoning. Using the same skillet after quickly wiping it clean, add the tablespoon of vegetable oil and heat until shimmering. Carefully place the seasoned salmon pieces into the hot oil, again ensuring they have space between them. Cook for approximately 2 minutes per side until the exterior develops a beautiful crust while the interior remains moist and tender. The salmon should reach an internal temperature of 145°F. Transfer to the plate with steak and cover.

Sauce Creation:

Without cleaning the skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the diced onion, sautéing until translucent and beginning to caramelize at the edges, about 3 4 minutes. This step incorporates all the flavorful bits from searing the proteins. Add the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to let it brown. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Once simmering, gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan, stirring constantly to ensure smooth incorporation. Season with the remaining tablespoon of blackened seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Allow sauce to gently simmer for 2 3 minutes until it begins to thicken. If sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Final Assembly:

Return the cooked pasta directly to the sauce, tossing gently but thoroughly to coat each piece with the creamy alfredo. Allow pasta to simmer in the sauce for about 1 minute to absorb flavors. Gently fold in the seared steak and salmon pieces, being careful not to break the salmon. Remove from heat and let stand for 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld together perfectly before serving. Transfer to warmed plates or a large serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

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I'm particularly fond of the blackened seasoning in this recipe. My grandmother taught me the importance of toasting spices before creating a blend, which makes all the difference in depth of flavor. When my children were younger, I would reduce the cayenne in my homemade blackened seasoning mix, but now they enjoy the full flavored version. There's something magical about the way this seasoning creates a flavorful crust on proteins while locking in moisture.

Perfect Pairings

Simple, bright vegetables make ideal companions for this rich pasta dish. I recommend serving it alongside roasted asparagus drizzled with lemon juice or a fresh arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette. The acidity helps cut through the richness of the alfredo sauce. Warm, crusty bread is essential for sopping up every last bit of the decadent sauce. For special occasions, start with a light appetizer like bruschetta or a small cup of clear broth to prepare the palate without filling guests before the main event.

Tasty Twists

This versatile recipe welcomes customization based on preferences or dietary needs. For a lighter version, substitute half and half for heavy cream and reduce Parmesan by one third. Seafood lovers might enjoy adding a handful of sautéed shrimp or scallops along with the salmon. Those avoiding red meat can double the salmon or substitute chicken thighs seasoned and cooked using the same method as the steak. Vegetable additions like sun dried tomatoes, spinach, or artichoke hearts incorporate beautifully when added during the final sauce assembly.

Leftover Magic

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container with a thin layer of cream on top to prevent drying out. When properly refrigerated, this dish remains delicious for up to three days. For best results when reheating, warm gently in a covered skillet over medium low heat with a splash of cream or milk to revitalize the sauce. Stir occasionally but gently to prevent breaking the salmon pieces. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but use 50% power with frequent stirring. I actually think the flavors develop even more complexity overnight, making leftovers something to look forward to rather than merely tolerate.

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After years of refining this recipe, I've come to appreciate it as more than just a meal. It represents the perfect balance of everyday ingredients transformed through thoughtful technique into something truly special. While it might seem intimidating at first, mastering this dish provides confidence that carries over to countless other cooking adventures. The combination of textures and flavors creates a memorable dining experience that proves home cooking can rival any restaurant offering.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What is blackened seasoning and can I make it myself?

Blackened seasoning is a spice blend typically containing paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. You can easily make it yourself by combining 1 tablespoon paprika, 2 teaspoons each of garlic powder and onion powder, 1 teaspoon each of cayenne pepper, dried thyme, and dried oregano, plus 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and black pepper.

→ Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cavatappi pasta works beautifully because its spiral shape holds the sauce well, you can substitute penne, fusilli, farfalle, or even fettuccine. Choose pasta shapes with ridges or twists that will capture the creamy alfredo sauce.

→ What can I substitute for the salmon if I don't like fish?

If you're not a fan of salmon, you can easily make this with just steak for a blackened steak alfredo. Alternatively, substitute with shrimp, chicken, or even blackened portobello mushrooms for a different flavor profile while maintaining the recipe's concept.

→ How do I know when the salmon is properly cooked?

Salmon is properly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F or when the flesh becomes opaque and flakes easily with a fork. For 1-inch cubes as called for in this recipe, this typically takes about 2-3 minutes per side when searing over medium-high heat.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare components ahead of time. Cook the pasta al dente and refrigerate. Prepare the steak and salmon and refrigerate separately. Make the sauce just before serving and reheat the proteins and pasta gently before combining everything.

→ How spicy is this dish with the blackened seasoning?

The typical blackened seasoning provides a moderate level of heat. If you're sensitive to spice, reduce the amount of cayenne in your blackened seasoning blend or use a commercial blend labeled as 'mild.' You can always add more heat with red pepper flakes at the table.