This spicy Cajun steak with creamy Alfredo pasta is a flavorful, satisfying dish that pairs smoky, seasoned steak with rich and silky linguine. It’s a bold and comforting combination of heat and creaminess that’s perfect for a weeknight indulgence or a dinner that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in your own kitchen. The Cajun-spiced steak brings a fiery, smoky punch that perfectly complements the velvety Alfredo sauce. The balance of spice and cream makes this dish irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to make and ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cajun Steak:
ribeye or sirloin steak, sliced into strips
Cajun seasoning
smoked paprika
For the Alfredo Pasta:
linguine or fettuccine
butter
heavy cream
garlic, minced
Parmesan cheese, grated
salt and black pepper
parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, season the steak strips with Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Toss to coat evenly.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the steak strips for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your desired level. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, and cook until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce and toss until well coated.
- Return the Cajun steak strips to the skillet and mix gently or serve the steak on top of the pasta.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Servings: 3–4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Calories per Serving: Approximately 620 kcal
Variations
- Add vegetables: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make it spicier: Increase the Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Chicken alternative: Substitute the steak with Cajun-seasoned chicken breast strips.
- Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter Alfredo sauce.
- Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your seasonings are certified gluten-free.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.
FAQs
What cut of steak works best?
Ribeye and sirloin are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, but flank or skirt steak can also be used.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the steak and Alfredo sauce ahead and reheat just before serving.
Is Cajun seasoning very spicy?
Cajun seasoning is moderately spicy. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less, or by using a mild blend.
What pasta is best for Alfredo sauce?
Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti are all great choices as they hold the creamy sauce well.
Can I make the Alfredo sauce without cream?
You can substitute with a combination of milk and butter, though the sauce may be less rich.
What can I serve alongside this dish?
A crisp green salad or garlic bread pairs well with this hearty pasta dish.
Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan?
Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly, but pre-shredded can be used in a pinch.
How do I avoid curdling the sauce?
Keep the heat low while adding cream and cheese, and stir continuously to prevent separation.
Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes, but homemade gives a fresher, more flavorful result. If using store-bought, enhance it with fresh garlic and Parmesan.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, as the cream sauce may separate when frozen and reheated.
Conclusion
Spicy Cajun steak with creamy Alfredo pasta is a rich, indulgent meal that delivers bold flavor and comforting texture. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish brings together the best of spice and creaminess in every bite. Quick to make and irresistibly satisfying, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
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Spicy Cajun Steak with Creamy Alfredo Pasta
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2–3
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Turn up the heat with this Spicy Cajun Steak with Creamy Alfredo Pasta! Bold Cajun-seasoned steak strips sizzle to perfection, then served over rich, garlicky Alfredo linguine—this comforting yet spicy combo is a flavor-packed dinner ready to impress. Keywords: Cajun steak pasta, spicy Alfredo steak pasta, Cajun Alfredo linguine, creamy steak pasta, easy Cajun dinner.
Ingredients
For the Cajun Steak:
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1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak, sliced into strips
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1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
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1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Alfredo Pasta:
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8 oz linguine or fettuccine
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2 tablespoons butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for extra heat)
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Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
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Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Toss steak strips with Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak strips and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking. Remove and set aside.
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In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
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Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using.
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Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
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Plate the pasta and top with sizzling Cajun steak strips. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately.
Notes
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Adjust spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning and chili flakes.
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Swap steak for chicken or shrimp for variation.
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Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra depth.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
