Description
This rich and creamy Cajun Alfredo Sauce combines classic Italian flavors with bold Cajun spices for a deliciously flavorful pasta topping. Made with butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a vibrant blend of Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, this sauce is perfect for elevating your favorite pasta dishes with a spicy Southern twist.
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 your seasoning blend contains salt)
- 1¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 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 the Butter: Melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over low heat. Allow it to melt completely and begin frothing, indicated by white bubbles forming on the surface.
- Add Cream and Spices: Stir in the heavy cream and Cajun seasoning blend. If your seasoning blend does not contain salt, add ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook on low heat for 5 to 6 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add Lemon Zest and Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and add the zest of one lemon to brighten the flavor. Gradually incorporate the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese fully melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust salt to taste.
- Serve: Toss the sauce with cooked pasta in the skillet to coat evenly or serve it as a sauce on the side to your preference.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best melting and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your spice preference.
- This sauce pairs wonderfully with fettuccine or penne pasta.
- If you want a thinner sauce, add a splash of pasta water when mixing with pasta.
- Leftover sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-American
Keywords: Cajun Alfredo Sauce, creamy Cajun sauce, Cajun pasta sauce, Cajun cream sauce, spicy Alfredo, Cajun seasoning recipe
