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Cajun Alfredo Sauce (Big FLAVOR!) Recipe

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3.8 from 9 reviews

This Cajun Alfredo Sauce combines creamy, cheesy richness with bold Cajun spices for a flavorful twist on a classic Italian sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for pasta dishes seeking a spicy, smoky kick with a hint of citrus freshness from lemon zest.

Ingredients

For the Sauce

  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 Tablespoons Cajun seasoning (homemade or store bought)
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt (omit if seasoning blend contains salt)
  • 1¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • 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 the Butter: Melt the butter in a large skillet over low heat until melted and it begins to froth, showing white bubbles on top.
  2. Add Cream and Cajun Seasoning: Stir in the heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Add salt if needed. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook on low heat for 5 to 6 minutes to allow flavors to blend and sauce to thicken slightly.
  3. Add Lemon Zest and Parmesan Cheese: Remove the pan from heat, add the lemon zest for fresh citrus aroma. Gradually whisk in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust salt to taste.
  4. Serve: Toss the sauce with cooked pasta directly in the pan to coat evenly or serve the sauce as desired with your favorite pasta or dish.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for best flavor and creamy texture; pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
  • If your Cajun seasoning contains salt, omit or reduce the additional kosher salt to prevent oversalting.
  • This sauce pairs well with fettuccine or penne pasta and can also be used over grilled chicken or seafood.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper amount for desired heat level.