Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta
A comforting and indulgent dish featuring juicy garlic butter steak bites tossed with twisted pasta in a creamy spicy Cajun Alfredo sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
For the Steak
- 1.5 pounds sirloin steak Tender cut, can substitute with ribeye or NY strip.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil Extra-virgin preferred for flavor.
- 4 tablespoons butter Can use salted or unsalted.
- 4 cloves garlic Minced fresh garlic preferred.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- to taste salt and pepper Season as desired.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional for added spice.
For the Pasta and Sauce
- 12 ounces twisted pasta Rotini or fusilli preferred.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Use your favorite blend.
- 1 tablespoon butter For finishing the sauce.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions. Before draining, reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Preparing the Steak
- Season steak cubes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add steak in a single layer and sear for 3-4 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Making the Garlic Butter
- In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Preparing the Cajun Alfredo Sauce
- Pour in heavy cream and stir in Cajun seasoning, additional garlic powder if desired, salt, and pepper.
- Let the sauce bubble for 3-4 minutes until thickened, then stir in Parmesan and reserved pasta water as needed.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the drained pasta directly into the sauce, tossing to coat.
- Fold the steak bites back in to distribute evenly.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and more Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
Let steak come to room temperature before cooking for even cooking. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.