Description
This Spicy Cajun Steak with Creamy Alfredo Pasta recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun-seasoned ribeye or sirloin steak with a rich and smooth homemade Alfredo sauce tossed with tender fettuccine. Perfectly seared steaks paired with a luscious, garlicky parmesan cream sauce make a decadent and satisfying meal for two.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak and Seasoning
- 2 ribeye or sirloin steaks
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Alfredo Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Steak: Rub the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly on both sides of the ribeye or sirloin steaks, ensuring full coverage for maximum flavor.
- Sear the Steaks: Heat olive oil and unsalted butter together in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned steaks and sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side to achieve medium-rare doneness or cook to your preferred level. Remove steaks from the skillet and let rest to retain juices.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil water and cook the fettuccine or preferred pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain the pasta and reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for later use.
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce: Using the same skillet used for the steaks, pour in the heavy cream and add garlic powder. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the cream thickens slightly. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese gradually until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust the sauce consistency by adding reserved pasta water as needed.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the drained pasta to the Alfredo sauce in the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the noodles evenly. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve and Garnish: Slice the rested Cajun steaks thinly and arrange them on top of the creamy Alfredo pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Letting the steak rest after cooking helps preserve its juices for a more tender bite.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level.
- Using the same skillet for the sauce adds extra flavor from the steak drippings.
- If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will be less rich.
