If you’re looking for a dish that combines rich flavors with a kick of spice, look no further than Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo. This recipe takes tender steak strips, perfectly cooked fettuccine, and envelops them in a luscious, creamy Alfredo sauce infused with Cajun spices. It’s a delightful meal that’s sure to impress family and friends while satisfying your cravings for something hearty and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak (ribeye or sirloin): Choose a cut that’s well-marbled for added flavor and tenderness. Ribeye offers a rich, juicy profile, while sirloin provides a leaner option without compromising on taste.
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta: The flat, ribbon-like shape of fettuccine holds sauces beautifully, making it a perfect companion for the creamy Alfredo.
- 2 cups heavy cream: This will form the base of your Alfredo sauce, giving it that signature creaminess and richness.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-grated, ensuring a smooth, creamy sauce.
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning: A blend of spices that typically includes paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
- 2 tbsp butter: Adds richness and flavor to the sauce.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Used for cooking the steak, it adds a nice flavor and helps to prevent sticking.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds a robust flavor to the dish.
- 1 small onion, diced: Onions provide sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: This bright herb adds freshness and color to the final dish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the dish.
Directions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Reserve a cup of the pasta water for later use if needed.
- Prepare the Steak: While the pasta is cooking, take your steak and slice it into thin strips against the grain. This will help ensure that each piece is tender. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and half of the Cajun seasoning, making sure the meat is evenly coated.
- Sear the Steak: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned steak strips in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure a good sear. Cook the steak for about 4-5 minutes, or until browned on all sides. The goal is to achieve a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside on a plate, covering it with foil to keep warm.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once simmering, add the grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine the Pasta and Steak: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce until fully coated. Return the cooked steak strips to the skillet and gently mix everything together, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning if desired.
Cooking Tips and Techniques
- Choosing the Right Steak: Ribeye and sirloin are both great choices for this dish. Ribeye offers a richer flavor due to its higher fat content, while sirloin is leaner and still tender. Either will work well, so choose based on your preference.
- Seasoning the Steak: Allow the steak to marinate for at least 15-30 minutes after seasoning. This helps to enhance the flavors and tenderize the meat.
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: For a tender and juicy steak, aim for medium-rare to medium doneness. The internal temperature should be around 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare and 145°F (63°C) for medium.
- Homemade Cajun Seasoning: If you prefer, you can make your own Cajun seasoning by combining paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, and black pepper. Adjust the spice levels according to your taste.
- Enhancing the Sauce: For added depth, consider incorporating a splash of white wine or chicken broth after sautéing the garlic and onions. This will help deglaze the pan and infuse more flavor into the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the Alfredo. Consider including mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
- Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread or breadsticks for a complete meal. The bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover Alfredo sauce.
- Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, pairs well with the richness of the Alfredo and complements the spiciness of the Cajun seasoning.
- Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Nutritional Information
This Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo provides a satisfying meal rich in protein and flavor. With approximately 710 calories per serving, it’s a hearty dish perfect for dinner. If you’re looking to reduce the caloric content, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of spicy Cajun flavors with the richness of Alfredo creates a comforting dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the bold flavors and creamy texture as you savor each delicious bite!
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
Indulge in this delightful Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo, and don’t forget to adjust the spice levels according to your preference. Bon appétit
