Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta Best

Beef steak sizzling in a pan brings me right back to those lively family gatherings in our bustling kitchen. The aroma of garlic butter steak bites would draw everyone in, eagerly awaiting the meal. It was not just about feeding hungry mouths but creating moments of laughter and love over a shared dish.

Cooking has always been my escape—a delightful dance of flavors and aromas. One dish that consistently brings joy is my garlic butter steak bites and spicy cajun alfredo twisted pasta. The rich and creamy sauce paired with tender steak bites creates a symphony of flavors that feels like a warm hug.

There’s something so satisfying about transforming simple ingredients into a dish that feels like an indulgent treat. This recipe captures that magic, blending the comfort of pasta with the boldness of Cajun spices. Every time I make it, I’m reminded of why I love cooking—it’s about sharing happiness one plate at a time.

If you’re looking for a dish to bring warmth and joy to your table, you’ve found it. This garlic butter steak bites and spicy cajun alfredo twisted pasta recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience, a memory waiting to be made.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Chloe
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

Indulge in flavorful Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta! Learn how to create this delicious dish that will elevate your cooking skills.


Ingredients

  • 5 pounds (680 g) beef steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 3 tablespoon (45 ml) s vegetable oil
  • 4 tablespoon (60 ml) s butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) smoked paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon (3 ml) red pepper flakes (optional , for heat)
  • 12 ounce (340 g) s twisted pasta (rotini or fusilli recommended)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoon (30 ml) s Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) butter
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional )


Instructions

  1. Fill a big pot with plenty of salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the twisted pasta and cook it until it’s tender but still has a firm bite, as per the package directions. Save about half a cup of the pasta water for later before draining the pasta. Set the cooked pasta aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, get the steak ready. Use paper towels to pat the steak cubes dry, which is important for a proper sear. Generously season the steak with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, making sure every piece is evenly coated.
  3. Warm the vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat until it shimmers but isn’t smoking. If needed, work in batches to prevent overcrowding, placing the seasoned steak cubes in a single layer in the hot pan. Let them cook without moving for 1-2 minutes to achieve a good sear, then use tongs to turn and brown them on all sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes for medium-rare to medium doneness. Take the seared steak out of the pan and place it on a plate, loosely covering it with foil to keep warm. Repeat with any remaining steak.
  4. In the same pan, with all the flavorful bits left from the steak, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant and lightly golden, ensuring it doesn’t burn. If you’re adding red pepper flakes for heat, do so now.
  5. Pour the heavy cream into the pan with the garlic butter. Mix in the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and some salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly. Lower the heat and gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until it’s fully melted, creating a smooth and creamy sauce.
  6. Add the drained pasta directly into the pan with the Cajun Alfredo sauce. Toss thoroughly to coat each piece of pasta in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you achieve the desired consistency. Adjust the seasonings if necessary.
  7. Carefully mix the seared steak bites back into the skillet, along with any juices from the plate. Stir gently to combine everything, allowing the steak to heat through in the warm pasta and sauce for about 1-2 minutes. Avoid overcooking the steak at this point.
  8. Transfer the pasta and steak bites to a large serving dish or individual plates. Sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. If desired, offer extra grated Parmesan cheese at the table. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Ensure the steak is dried thoroughly before seasoning to achieve a good sear and prevent it from becoming too moist.
  • Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spiciness of the dish according to your preference.
  • Whisk in the Parmesan cheese gradually into the sauce to avoid clumping and ensure a smooth consistency.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Fundamentals

This dish begins with the essentials: tender beef steak, creamy alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. The key lies in balancing these elements to create a harmonious blend of flavors. The garlic butter steak bites serve as the star, providing a rich, savory contrast to the creamy pasta.

Choosing the right pasta is crucial. Rotini or fusilli are recommended for their ability to hold onto the sauce, ensuring each bite is flavorful. The Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick, elevating the dish to new levels of taste and excitement.

Preparation/setup

Start by preparing your ingredients. Pat the beef steak dry and cut it into bite-sized cubes for even cooking. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika to enhance the natural flavors. Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to a boil for the pasta.

Having everything ready before you start cooking ensures a smooth process. Mise en place, or ‘everything in its place,’ is a fundamental step that simplifies the cooking experience, allowing you to focus on perfecting each element of the dish.

Crafting the Perfect Flavor

Technique

The technique for these garlic butter steak bites involves achieving a perfect sear. Heat the vegetable oil until it shimmers, then add the seasoned steak cubes. Allow them to sit undisturbed for a couple of minutes to form a crust before turning. This step ensures the steak retains its juiciness while developing a rich flavor profile.

For the sauce, melt butter in the same pan to capture all the savory bits left from the steak. Sauté minced garlic until it’s fragrant, then add heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Let it simmer to thicken, creating a luscious base for the pasta.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Tips/tricks

One trick for a creamy sauce is to gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese. This prevents clumping and ensures a smooth texture. If the sauce thickens too much, use reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.

Incorporate the cooked pasta directly into the sauce to let it soak up the flavors. This step is vital for ensuring every bite is as delicious as the last. For an extra touch, finish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Refining Your Dish

Perfecting results

To perfect this dish, attention to detail is key. Make sure the steak is cooked to your preferred doneness, whether it’s medium-rare or medium. Letting the steak rest briefly before adding it back to the pasta helps to keep it tender and juicy.

Adjust the seasoning of the sauce to your taste. If you enjoy a bit more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes. Remember, cooking is about personal preference, so feel free to tweak the spice level to suit your palate.

Troubleshooting/variations

If the sauce becomes too thick, the reserved pasta water is your best friend. Add it gradually while stirring to reach the desired creaminess. For a twist, consider adding vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for additional flavor and nutrition.

Experimenting with different types of pasta can also yield interesting results. While rotini and fusilli are recommended, trying other shapes might surprise you with new textures and flavor distribution.

Serving and Presenting Your Masterpiece

Serving/presentation

Presentation is the final step in creating a memorable meal. Serve the garlic butter steak bites and spicy cajun alfredo twisted pasta in a large dish for a family-style meal or plate it individually for a more refined dining experience.

Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of elegance. The vibrant green adds a pop of color, making the dish visually appealing and inviting.

Pairings/storage

While this dish stands alone beautifully, pairing it with a fresh salad or garlic bread can enhance the meal. For a complementary side, consider trying garlic butter shrimp or a garlic bread grilled cheese.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Enjoy within a couple of days for the best flavor.

Conclusion

This garlic butter steak bites and spicy cajun alfredo twisted pasta recipe combines bold flavors with comforting textures, making it a standout dish for any occasion. Its versatility allows for personalization, ensuring it suits your taste perfectly.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of tender steak, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta creates a deliciously satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and delightful to eat.

With this dish, you have a surefire way to create cherished memories in the kitchen. Embrace the joy of cooking, and let this recipe become a beloved part of your culinary repertoire.

FAQs – Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Spicy Cajun Alfredo Twisted Pasta

Absolutely! You can swap the sirloin steak with ribeye, strip steak, or even tenderloin for a more tender option. Flank or skirt steak can also be used if sliced against the grain. Just make sure to follow the same seasoning and cooking instructions for a delicious result.
Adjusting the spice level is easy! To make it milder, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or skip the red pepper flakes. For more heat, increase the red pepper flakes, use hot paprika, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Feel free to customize the spice level to suit your taste preferences.
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep ahead. Cook the pasta al dente and store it in the fridge. Season the steak bites and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, cook the steak, make the sauce, and reheat the pasta by adding it to the creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce. Add a splash of cream or pasta water if needed to revive the sauce.
For a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with evaporated milk or full-fat coconut milk. Another alternative is cashew cream for a dairy-free version. These substitutions may result in a slightly thinner sauce compared to heavy cream, but they will still provide a creamy texture to the dish.
This rich and flavorful dish pairs nicely with lighter sides. Consider serving it with a fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Garlic bread is a classic accompaniment that complements the creamy pasta. For a complete meal, start with a light appetizer like bruschetta or a Caesar salad before diving into the steak bites and Cajun Alfredo pasta.

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star