Dinner

Cajun Alfredo Sauce (Big FLAVOR!) Recipe

ByElla Hart January 19, 2026January 19, 2026

Introduction

This Cajun Alfredo Sauce packs a big burst of bold, spicy flavor with the creamy richness of classic Alfredo. It’s a perfect sauce to elevate your pasta dishes with a little Southern-inspired heat and aromatic herbs.

This dish shows a bowl of creamy pasta with two main layers: the bottom layer is light yellow cooked pasta coated in a smooth creamy orange sauce, and the top layer is sprinkled with grated white cheese and chopped green parsley. On one side of the bowl, there are fresh green microgreens, and a half slice of yellow lemon sits tucked behind the greens. The white bowl sits on a round wooden board with a handle, placed on a white marbled surface with some green leaves in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

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
Zest of 1 lemon
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

Step 1: Melt the butter in a large skillet over low heat until melted and it begins to froth, showing white bubbles on top.
Step 2: Stir in the heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Add salt if your seasoning blend does not contain salt. Bring to a simmer and cook on low for 5 to 6 minutes.
Step 3: Remove the pan from heat and add the lemon zest. Gradually add the parmesan cheese, stirring until it completely melts and the sauce is smooth. Adjust salt to taste.
Step 4: Toss cooked pasta directly in the sauce to coat evenly, or serve the sauce alongside your favorite pasta.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly grated parmesan for the best melting quality and flavor.
Adjust cayenne pepper to control the heat level for a milder or spicier sauce.
For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with olive oil and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and nutritional yeast in place of parmesan.
Add cooked shrimp or chicken for a hearty Cajun Alfredo pasta dish.

Storage

Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating. If needed, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce while reheating.