If you’re craving a restaurant-quality meal that’s bold, creamy, and utterly satisfying, this Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta is the perfect dish. Juicy, seared steak bites are coated in a rich garlic butter glaze, then paired with pasta enveloped in a spicy, velvety Cajun Alfredo sauce. It’s indulgence at its finest—comfort food with a kick! I first made this on a Friday night when I wanted something special without spending hours in the kitchen, and it instantly became a family favorite. The combination of tender steak, creamy sauce, and that Cajun spice creates a perfect harmony of heat and richness. The twisted pasta shape holds every bit of sauce, making each bite irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just treating yourself, this recipe guarantees an unforgettable dining experience that’s as satisfying as it looks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish brings together the best of both worlds—juicy, buttery steak bites and a creamy, spicy Cajun pasta that hits all the right notes. It’s a full meal with incredible texture and flavor contrast: tender steak, silky sauce, and perfectly al dente pasta. It’s also easy to make and far more budget-friendly than eating out.
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Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 3 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich and indulgent meal featuring tender garlic butter steak bites served over spicy Cajun Alfredo twisted pasta. Creamy, flavorful, and packed with bold spices — perfect for steak and pasta lovers alike!
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 8 oz twisted pasta (such as rotini or fusilli)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (for sauce)
- 1 tbsp butter (for sauce)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season steak bites with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak bites for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium and add 2 tbsp butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return the steak bites to the pan and toss in the garlic butter. Remove from heat and keep warm.
- In another pan, melt 1 tbsp butter and stir in Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes. Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 3 minutes.
- Add Parmesan cheese and whisk until smooth and creamy. Season to taste.
- Toss cooked pasta in the spicy Cajun Alfredo sauce until fully coated.
- Serve the pasta topped with garlic butter steak bites and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of pasta water to the Alfredo sauce.
- Use shrimp instead of steak for a Cajun surf-and-turf variation.
- Best served immediately for maximum flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Seared & Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Steak – Use sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip, cut into 1-inch cubes for tender, juicy bites. Ribeye adds a luxurious richness that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
Olive oil – Helps the steak sear evenly while locking in moisture.
Butter – Used to make the signature garlic butter that coats the steak and adds depth to the sauce.
Garlic – Freshly minced garlic enhances both the steak and the Alfredo, creating an aromatic backbone that ties the flavors together.
Cajun seasoning – The star of the show! It brings a smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet flavor that elevates the Alfredo sauce.
Heavy cream – Forms the creamy base of the Alfredo sauce. You can substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
Parmesan cheese – Gives the sauce its signature silky texture and rich, nutty flavor.
Twisted pasta (rotini or fusilli) – The perfect pasta shape for holding onto the Alfredo sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings to balance and enhance the flavors.
Fresh parsley – Adds a pop of freshness and color to the finished dish.
Red pepper flakes – Optional, but highly recommended if you want to boost the spice level.
Directions
Start by cooking the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Pat the steak bites dry and season them with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Cajun seasoning. Sear the steak for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in more Cajun seasoning, then pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes before whisking in Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Return the steak bites to the skillet and drizzle them with the remaining garlic butter. Combine gently to coat the steak with the sauce.
Finish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Saucepan for boiling pasta
- Tongs or spatula for handling steak bites
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk for the Alfredo sauce
- Measuring spoons and cups
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people generously. The prep time is about 15 minutes, while cooking time takes around 25 minutes, making it a 40-minute meal that feels gourmet but is totally achievable on a weeknight.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to the pasta before microwaving or reheating on the stove over low heat. The steak can also be quickly warmed in a skillet to preserve its texture.
Variations and Customizations
Creamy Garlic Mushroom Alfredo
Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy, savory twist that complements the Cajun spices.
Shrimp and Steak Surf & Turf
Mix in sautéed shrimp for an elegant upgrade that pairs beautifully with the Cajun Alfredo sauce.
Extra Spicy Cajun Kick
Use extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce for those who love heat.
Spinach Alfredo
Stir in a handful of baby spinach just before serving for added color and nutrients.
Four-Cheese Alfredo
Combine Parmesan, mozzarella, Romano, and cream cheese for a richer, cheesier sauce.
Lemon Butter Twist
Add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the sauce and cut through the richness.
Herb-Infused Steak Bites
Toss the steak with rosemary and thyme before searing for an aromatic touch.
FAQs
What cut of steak works best for this recipe?
Sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip are all great options for tender and juicy bites.
Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes, simply reduce the Cajun seasoning or omit the red pepper flakes.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Use a cornstarch slurry to thicken it if needed.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is certified gluten-free.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, but warm it gently before adding the pasta and steak to keep it smooth.
What if my Alfredo sauce is too thick?
Add a bit of reserved pasta water or milk to loosen it to your liking.
Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Absolutely! Cajun chicken pairs beautifully with this creamy pasta.
How do I get the perfect sear on steak bites?
Pat the steak dry before searing and avoid overcrowding the pan.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, just tone down the spice level for younger eaters.
Can I freeze this pasta?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly with added cream.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta is the ultimate comfort dish for steak and pasta lovers alike. The juicy, buttery steak pairs perfectly with the creamy, spicy sauce—each bite bursting with flavor. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party yet simple enough for a weeknight treat. This recipe brings warmth, richness, and a little fiery kick to your table, making it an instant favorite that you’ll crave again and again.
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