Dinner

Cajun Alfredo Sauce (Big FLAVOR!) Recipe

Name: Cajun Alfredo Sauce (Big FLAVOR!) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 ½ cup heavy cream; 2 Tablespoons Cajun seasoning (homemade or store-bought); ½ teaspoon kosher salt (omit if seasoning blend contains salt); 1¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; 1 lemon (zest only); 3 Tablespoons smoked paprika; 1 Tablespoon onion powder; 1 Tablespoon garlic powder; 2 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon ground white pepper; 1 teaspoon ground mustard; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper; ½ teaspoon dried basil

ByOlivia Monroe January 19, 2026January 19, 2026

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This Cajun Alfredo Sauce combines the rich creaminess of traditional Alfredo with bold, spicy Cajun flavors for a truly unforgettable pasta experience. It’s easy to make and perfect for adding a flavorful kick to your favorite dishes.

A white bowl filled with creamy, yellow-orange pasta with a smooth, rich sauce, sprinkled generously with grated parmesan cheese and small green herb pieces on top. On the left inside edge of the bowl, there is a small bunch of fresh green microgreens and a wedge of yellow lemon adding a fresh touch. The bowl sits on a round wooden board, placed on a white marbled surface, and there is a bunch of parsley blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter
1 ½ cups heavy cream
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
½ teaspoon kosher salt (omit if your seasoning blend contains salt)
1¾ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Zest of 1 lemon
3 tablespoons smoked paprika
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon ground white pepper
1 teaspoon ground mustard
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon dried basil

Instructions

Step 1: Melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over low heat until it is melted and begins to froth, showing white bubbles on top.
Step 2: Stir in the heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Add salt only if your seasoning blend does not contain salt. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook on low heat for 5 to 6 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Remove the skillet from the heat, then add the lemon zest. Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Taste and add salt if needed.
Step 4: Toss cooked pasta directly in the sauce to coat evenly, or serve the sauce as a flavorful topping.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting texture and flavor intensity.
Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level according to your preference.
Try this sauce with grilled chicken or shrimp for a delicious Cajun twist on classic Alfredo pasta dishes.
If you want a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but expect a slightly thinner sauce.

Storage

Store leftover Cajun Alfredo sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from separating. Add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce becomes too thick.

How to Serve

A white bowl sits on a round wooden board with creamy orange pasta inside, the pasta noodles are flat and coated evenly with a smooth sauce, topped with finely chopped green herbs and a sprinkle of grated cheese that adds a light texture contrast. On the left side of the bowl, there’s a small bunch of fresh green leafy sprouts and a bright lemon wedge rests behind them, adding a pop of yellow. The background and surface show a clean white marbled texture, and some parsley greens are blurry in the back. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce up to two days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat slowly on the stove before serving to maintain its creamy texture.

What pasta types work best with Cajun Alfredo sauce?

This sauce pairs wonderfully with wide noodles like fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni that hold sauce well. It also works great over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.