Garlic Butter Steak Bites paired with Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta offer a bold and indulgent dining experience that merges juicy, seared steak with a creamy, spiced pasta dish. This recipe is a satisfying fusion of comfort food and Southern-style flair that’s perfect for dinner nights when you want something hearty and flavorful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect Balance of Richness and Spice: The creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce complements the savory, buttery steak bites beautifully.
Restaurant-Quality at Home: Enjoy a high-end dining experience without leaving your kitchen.
Full of Texture and Flavor: From tender steak to twisted pasta coated in a creamy, zesty sauce, every bite is indulgent and satisfying.
Customizable Spice Level: Easily adjust the heat with red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.
Ready in Just Over 30 Minutes: A great option for a gourmet weeknight dinner.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:
1.5 pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
For the Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta:
12 oz twisted pasta (rotini or fusilli)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
directions
Cook the Pasta
Boil the twisted pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Sear the Steak Bites
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak cubes with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Add the steak to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes, turning to brown all sides. Remove and set aside.
Make the Garlic Butter
In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until aromatic.
Prepare the Cajun Alfredo Sauce
Add heavy cream, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
Cook for 3–4 minutes, then add the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
Combine with Pasta
Toss the cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Finish with Steak Bites
Stir the seared steak bites back into the pasta and mix well to combine.
Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Servings and timing
Yield: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
Seafood Twist: Substitute steak with shrimp or scallops for a surf-and-turf feel.
Extra Veggies: Add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for more texture and nutrition.
Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in shredded mozzarella or extra Parmesan for added creaminess.
Mild Version: Use less Cajun seasoning or omit red pepper flakes to reduce the heat.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all seasonings are gluten-free.
storage/reheating
Storage:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon also work well for this recipe.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter alternative.
Is this dish very spicy?
The heat is moderate. You can control the spice by adjusting the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep the components separately ahead of time, but combine them just before serving for the best texture.
What kind of Parmesan should I use?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts best and adds optimal flavor compared to pre-packaged options.
How do I avoid overcooking the steak?
Sear it quickly over high heat and remove as soon as it’s browned. It will continue to cook slightly when added back to the sauce.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Freezing is not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate upon thawing.
What can I serve with this dish?
A fresh green salad or garlic bread makes a great side for this rich, hearty meal.
Is rotini better than fusilli?
Both are excellent; they hold sauce well. Choose based on availability or preference.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based cream and butter alternatives, and a dairy-free Parmesan-style cheese.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta is a bold, comforting meal that brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re preparing it for a special dinner or just want to enjoy something indulgent on a weeknight, this dish delivers impressive flavor with minimal fuss.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites & Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-servings
Description
Savor a bold and indulgent meal with these juicy garlic butter steak bites paired with a rich, spicy Cajun Alfredo twisted pasta. This dish packs mouthwatering flavor, creamy heat, and a satisfying texture that’s perfect for dinner any night of the week.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Steak Bites:
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1.5 pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
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3 tablespoons olive oil
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4 tablespoons butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
-
Salt and pepper to taste
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta:
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12 oz twisted pasta (rotini or fusilli)
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 tablespoon butter
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta:
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Boil pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
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Prepare the Steak Bites:
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In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil.
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Season steak with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
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Cook steak bites for 3–4 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove from skillet.
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Make the Garlic Butter:
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In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
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Create the Cajun Alfredo Sauce:
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Add cream, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 3–4 minutes.
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Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce:
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Toss cooked pasta in the sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen.
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Finish and Serve:
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Stir steak bites into the pasta. Mix well.
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Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
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Notes
Adjust Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes for more or less heat. For a smoky twist, grill the steak bites before mixing them in.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
