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Cajun Alfredo Sauce Recipe

4.6 from 86 reviews

This Cajun Alfredo Sauce recipe delivers a rich and flavorful twist on the classic creamy Alfredo by infusing it with bold Cajun spices. Perfect for pouring over pasta or using as a decadent dipping sauce, this sauce combines buttery richness, smoked paprika, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices to create a spicy, creamy, and utterly delicious dish that’s sure to brighten any meal.

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 Cajun seasoning 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 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

  1. Melt Butter: In a large skillet over low heat, melt the unsalted butter. Continue heating until it begins to froth with small white bubbles forming on the surface, indicating it is gently simmering.
  2. Add Cream and Seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream followed by the Cajun seasoning and kosher salt (if needed based on your seasoning). Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook on low heat for 5 to 6 minutes to combine the flavors and slightly thicken the sauce.
  3. Add Lemon Zest and Cheese: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon zest for brightness. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese while stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust salt as necessary.
  4. Combine with Pasta: Add cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for better melting and flavor compared to pre-grated options.
  • If your Cajun seasoning already contains salt, reduce or omit additional salt to avoid oversalting.
  • This sauce pairs well with fettuccine, penne, or any pasta of your choice.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less thick and rich.
  • Leftover sauce stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on stovetop to prevent curdling.

Keywords: Cajun Alfredo Sauce, creamy Cajun sauce, spicy Alfredo sauce, Cajun pasta sauce, Cajun seasoning sauce, easy Cajun sauce