Cajun Alfredo Sauce (Big FLAVOR!)

Indulge in a taste of the South with this rich and creamy Cajun Alfredo Sauce that promises to awaken your palate. With its perfect balance of spice and creaminess, this sauce transforms plain pasta into a flavorful feast that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish shines with bold flavors and comforting textures that everyone will love.

What makes this Cajun Alfredo special is its authentic blend of spices that offers a kick without overwhelming the senses. It’s an excellent choice for impressing guests or just elevating your weeknight dinner. Serve it over fettuccine, chicken, or shrimp, and watch as it becomes a household favorite!

This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.

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 (see notes)
• 1 lemon (zest only)
• 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

Here are the key ingredients that create the rich flavors in this dish.

Directions

1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over low heat until it begins to froth, forming small white bubbles on top.
2. Stir in the heavy cream and Cajun seasoning, adding salt to taste if needed.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook on low for about 5–6 minutes.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the lemon zest.
5. Gradually add the freshly grated parmesan cheese, stirring until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
6. Add your choice of cooked pasta to the pan, tossing to coat, or serve the sauce as desired.

Tips & Variations

• Ingredient substitutions: You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version or use cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
• Optional variations: For added protein, consider adding grilled chicken or shrimp. You can also include sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a touch of freshness.
• Storage or reheating tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened.

Recipe Information

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty level: Easy