Description
This Cajun Alfredo sauce recipe is a creamy, cheesy, and spicy twist on the classic Alfredo sauce. Made with butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and bold Cajun seasoning, this sauce adds a delicious kick to pasta, chicken, and seafood dishes. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner. Whether you like it mild or extra spicy, this Southern-inspired sauce is easily customizable to your taste.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Cajun Alfredo Sauce
- Butter – ½ cup (unsalted)
- Heavy cream – 1½ cups
- Parmesan cheese – 1¾ cups (freshly grated)
- Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
- Smoked paprika – 1 teaspoon
- Cayenne pepper – ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Cajun seasoning – 2 tablespoons
- Salt – ½ teaspoon (omit if Cajun seasoning contains salt)
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Lemon zest – 1 teaspoon
Optional Add-ins
- Cream cheese – 2 tablespoons (for extra creaminess)
- Red pepper flakes – ½ teaspoon (for extra spice)
- Chicken broth – ¼ cup (if sauce needs thinning)
Instructions
Instructions
-
Melt the butter
- In a large skillet over low heat, melt the butter until it turns frothy. Be careful not to let it brown.
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Add the cream and seasoning
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Add the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
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Incorporate the Parmesan cheese
- Remove the pan from heat and slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
-
Adjust consistency and flavor
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little chicken broth or pasta water to thin it. Stir in lemon zest for a fresh contrast to the creamy texture.
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Serve immediately
- Toss the sauce with your favorite pasta, chicken, or seafood. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese instead of pre-shredded for the best texture and smooth melting.
- Control the spice level by adjusting the amount of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper.
- Do not boil the sauce as it can separate; keep the heat low and stir frequently.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk.
- This sauce pairs well with fettuccine, penne, shrimp, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 10
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, Southern, American
Keywords: Cajun Alfredo sauce, spicy Alfredo sauce, homemade Alfredo sauce, creamy pasta sauce, Cajun pasta, cheesy Alfredo, Southern-style sauce, easy pasta recipe