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If you are craving a dinner that brings together the rich, buttery goodness of perfectly seared steak with a creamy, spicy twist of Cajun Alfredo pasta, then this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta Recipe is going to become your new favorite. The tender steak bites are bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, perfectly paired with rotini pasta smothered in a velvety, slightly spicy Cajun Alfredo sauce. Every bite is a harmonious blend of bold flavors and comforting textures that you’ll love serving again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, familiar ingredients, each playing a crucial role in creating a dish packed with flavor and texture. From the juicy steak cubes to the rich Parmesan cheese, every element works together to elevate this meal.
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cubed: Choose a tender cut for juicy, flavorful bites that sear beautifully.
- 10 oz rotini pasta: The twisted shape holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly, making every forkful delicious.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for a good sear on the steak, adding a subtle fruity note.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps infuse garlic flavor into the steak bites.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant warmth and depth that ties the dish together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The base for the Alfredo sauce, giving a luscious, creamy texture.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese: Adds smoothness and a slight tang, deepening the creaminess of the sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty flavor that enriches the sauce perfectly.
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning: Infuses the dish with a zesty, spicy kick that wakes up your palate.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors of all ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and earthiness, balancing the richness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish): Offers a fresh, vibrant pop of color and flavor at the end.
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the rotini pasta until al dente. This ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture under the rich Alfredo sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta but remember to save half a cup of the pasta water – this will help adjust the sauce’s texture later on.
Step 2: Prepare the Steak
Pat your steak cubes dry with paper towels. This step is key to getting that beautiful sear. Season them generously with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for that signature spicy flavor.
Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the steak cubes in the hot oil, letting them sear for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Once seared, remove the steak and set aside to prevent overcooking.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter along with minced garlic. Stir for about a minute until the butter melts and the garlic releases its beautiful aroma, infusing the pan with flavor.
Step 5: Coat the Steak Bites
Return the steak cubes to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter, allowing them to soak up all those delicious flavors. Then, remove them again so they stay perfectly tender while you prepare the Alfredo sauce.
Step 6: Prepare the Spicy Cajun Alfredo Sauce
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and add the cream cheese, stirring continuously until everything is melted and smooth. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese, combining until the sauce is creamy, thick, and full of bold, spicy flavor. If the sauce seems too thick, use the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it to your desired consistency.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked rotini pasta directly into the skillet and toss to coat every twisted noodle with the creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce. The pasta will soak up all those vibrant flavors, making every bite a delightful experience.
Step 8: Final Assembly
Plate the sauced pasta and generously top with the garlic butter steak bites. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley to add a bright color contrast and a fresh note that balances the richness perfectly.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a beautiful and tasty garnish here, adding a burst of color and freshness. You can also add a light dusting of extra Parmesan or a few chili flakes if you want to amp up the heat for guests who love it spicy.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully hearty on its own, but a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables, like asparagus or Brussels sprouts, makes a great accompaniment by adding contrast in texture and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve the steak bites on small skewers nestled atop individual pasta servings. Alternatively, layering the pasta in a shallow bowl and arranging steak bites artistically around the edge makes for a stunning presentation that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more as they rest, making for delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but keep in mind that the texture of the Alfredo sauce and pasta may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze the steak bites and pasta separately in airtight containers for up to 1 month.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the Alfredo sauce if it has thickened. Stir frequently to keep the sauce creamy and prevent your steak bites from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While rotini is ideal for holding the sauce, penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine would work perfectly. Just be sure to cook it al dente for the best texture.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?
The Cajun seasoning provides a moderate kick that enhances the flavors without overwhelming your palate. If you prefer more heat, feel free to increase the seasoning or add a pinch of chili flakes.
Can I substitute the cream cheese for something else?
If you don’t have cream cheese on hand, mascarpone or even a bit of Greek yogurt can work as creamy substitutes, though they will slightly alter the sauce’s richness and tang.
Is it important to save pasta water?
Yes! The reserved pasta water contains starch which helps adjust the sauce’s consistency perfectly, allowing it to cling nicely to the pasta without becoming too thick or watery.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free rotini or your favorite gluten-free pasta option. Just check your Cajun seasoning to confirm it’s gluten-free, as some blends may contain hidden gluten.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta Recipe enough—it’s truly one of those meals that feels indulgent yet comes together with such ease. Whether it’s a special dinner or a satisfying weeknight treat, this dish is sure to impress and keep everyone coming back for seconds. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love with the perfect balance of bold spice, creamy sauce, and tender steak bites!
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Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Savor this delicious Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta – a perfect blend of tender seared steak cubes tossed in a rich, creamy Cajun-spiced Alfredo sauce served over perfectly cooked rotini pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, this hearty and flavorful dish is ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (plus extra for steak seasoning)
Pasta
- 10 oz rotini pasta
- Salt for pasta water
Sauce and Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Reserved 1/2 cup pasta water
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Season Steak: Pat the cubed steak dry with paper towels and season evenly with salt, black pepper, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning to infuse the meat with flavor.
- Sear Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak cubes and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the butter along with the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and the butter is melted.
- Toss Steak in Garlic Butter: Return the steak to the skillet and toss it in the garlic butter to coat well. Then, remove the steak again from the skillet to prevent overcooking while you prepare the sauce.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and add the cream cheese. Stir continuously over medium heat until the cream cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add Seasoning and Cheese: Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your preferred consistency.
- Combine Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained rotini pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat every piece with the creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce.
- Plate and Serve: Serve the pasta topped with the garlic butter steak bites. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Use ribeye for a more tender and flavorful steak bite, but sirloin is a great leaner option.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce thickness without diluting flavor.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning amount to suit your preferred spice level.
- For a richer sauce, you can add a little more cream cheese or Parmesan.
- Make sure not to overcook the steak bites; remove from heat promptly after searing to keep them juicy.
