Creamy Pasta with Steak and Shrimp

Ingredients:

For the steak and shrimp:

1 lb (450g) sirloin steak, ribeye, or filet mignon, sliced into thin strips

1/2 lb (225g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 tsp salt (divided)

1/2 tsp black pepper (divided)

1 tsp Italian seasoning

2 tbsp olive oil (divided)

2 tbsp unsalted butter (for the shrimp)

For the creamy pasta sauce:

12 oz (340g) fettuccine, linguine, or your favorite pasta

4 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp unsalted butter

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half)

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)

1/2 tsp Italian seasoning

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Optional garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped

Red pepper flakes (for a touch of spice)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak strips with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Add the steak strips to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned but not overcooked. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Season the shrimp with the remaining 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper.

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the steak.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux.

Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy (about 3-4 minutes).

Optional: Stir in lemon juice for a hint of brightness.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is achieved.

Return the steak strips and shrimp to the skillet. Toss gently to combine and heat through for 1-2 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Plate the creamy pasta, ensuring each serving gets a generous amount of steak, shrimp, and sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4

Optional Variations:

Veggies: Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.