Description
This Cajun Alfredo Sauce is a rich and creamy pasta sauce bursting with bold, smoky Cajun flavors combined with the classic creaminess of Alfredo. Made with butter, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and a robust blend of Cajun spices including smoked paprika, garlic, and cayenne pepper, this sauce adds a spicy, savory kick to your favorite pasta dishes. It’s perfect for those seeking a flavorful twist on traditional Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Sauce 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
Instructions
- Melt Butter: Melt the butter in a large skillet over low heat until fully melted and it begins to froth, indicated by white bubbles forming on top.
- Add Cream and Seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Add salt if your seasoning requires it. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook on low heat for 5 to 6 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Incorporate Lemon Zest and Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the lemon zest, then gradually add the freshly grated parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Adjust salt to taste if needed.
- Toss with Pasta or Serve: Add cooked pasta directly to the pan and toss to coat thoroughly with the sauce, or serve the sauce as desired with your favorite pasta.
Notes
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor; pre-grated may not melt as smoothly.
- If using store-bought Cajun seasoning, check salt content and adjust additional salt accordingly.
- Lemon zest adds a fresh brightness to balance the richness of the sauce.
- This sauce pairs well with fettuccine, linguine, or penne pasta.
- For a thicker sauce, reduce the cream slightly before adding cheese.
- Can be customized by adding cooked chicken or shrimp for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Pasta Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Keywords: Cajun Alfredo Sauce, Cajun pasta sauce, creamy Cajun sauce, spicy Alfredo, Cajun seasoning pasta sauce
