Dinner

Cajun Alfredo Sauce (Big FLAVOR!) Recipe

ByAndria Russo January 20, 2026January 20, 2026

Introduction

This Cajun Alfredo Sauce brings big flavor to your favorite pasta dishes with a creamy, spicy twist. Combining rich parmesan and smoky spices, it’s a perfect way to elevate a simple meal into something special and satisfying.

A white bowl filled with creamy, yellow-orange pasta with a smooth, rich sauce, sprinkled generously with grated parmesan cheese and small green herb pieces on top. On the left inside edge of the bowl, there is a small bunch of fresh green microgreens and a wedge of yellow lemon adding a fresh touch. The bowl sits on a round wooden board, placed on a white marbled surface, and there is a bunch of parsley blurred in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter
1½ cups heavy cream
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
½ teaspoon kosher salt (omit if seasoning blend contains salt)
1¾ cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
Zest of 1 lemon
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

Instructions

Step 1: Melt the butter in a large skillet over low heat until it melts and begins to froth, showing white bubbles on top.
Step 2: Stir in the heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Add salt if needed. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook on low for 5 to 6 minutes.
Step 3: Remove the pan from the heat and add the lemon zest. Gradually stir in the parmesan cheese until it is completely melted and the sauce becomes smooth. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
Step 4: Add cooked pasta to the pan and toss to coat evenly, or serve the sauce alongside your preferred dish.

Tips & Variations

For a lighter version, substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk, but keep the cooking time to prevent separation.
If you prefer more heat, increase the cayenne pepper slightly or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Freshly grate your own parmesan for the best melting and richest flavor.
Use this sauce with grilled chicken or shrimp for a hearty Cajun pasta meal.

Storage

Store leftover Cajun Alfredo Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent separation. Add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much during reheating.

How to Serve

A white bowl sits on a round wooden board with creamy orange pasta inside, the pasta noodles are flat and coated evenly with a smooth sauce, topped with finely chopped green herbs and a sprinkle of grated cheese that adds a light texture contrast. On the left side of the bowl, there’s a small bunch of fresh green leafy sprouts and a bright lemon wedge rests behind them, adding a pop of yellow. The background and surface show a clean white marbled texture, and some parsley greens are blurry in the back. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make Cajun Alfredo Sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to maintain a smooth texture.

What pasta pairs best with Cajun Alfredo Sauce?

Fettuccine, penne, or linguine work well as they hold the creamy sauce nicely. You can also serve the sauce over grilled proteins or vegetables for variety.