Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo is a decadent and flavorful dish that combines the rich, creamy texture of Alfredo sauce with the bold, spicy kick of Cajun seasoning and tender steak. It’s perfect for a special dinner or when you’re craving something indulgent yet satisfying. Here’s how to make it!
Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Cajun Steak:
- 2 boneless ribeye steaks (or sirloin, flank, or strip steak – around 1-inch thick)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade – see notes below)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp butter (for searing)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or beef broth for more depth of flavor)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (to match the steak’s flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for the pasta)
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta (or your favorite pasta)
- Salt, for the pasta water
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually about 9-11 minutes), until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water. Set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Cook the Steak
- While the pasta is cooking, season the steaks on both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the steaks to the pan.
- Sear the steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side (for medium-rare) or until they reach your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, the internal temperature should be about 130°F (54°C).
- Once done, remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. Then slice the steaks thinly against the grain.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
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In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt 2 tbsp butter.
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Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant (be careful not to burn it).
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Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Stir in the Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, and salt and pepper to taste. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Note: If the sauce gets too thick, you can thin it out with a little of the reserved pasta water.
Step 4: Combine Steak, Pasta, and Sauce
- Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the Alfredo sauce and toss to coat the pasta with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Stir in the sliced steak and toss everything together gently, so the steak and pasta are evenly coated in the creamy Cajun sauce.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve the Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese (optional).
Tips & Variations:
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Steak Alternatives: You can also use chicken breast or shrimp instead of steak. If using shrimp, just cook them in the skillet for about 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
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Pasta Alternatives: You can swap out the fettuccine for any pasta you like, such as penne, linguine, or rigatoni.
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Spice Level: If you prefer more heat, you can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. If you prefer it milder, reduce the Cajun seasoning by half.
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Homemade Cajun Seasoning: If you’d like to make your own Cajun seasoning, combine the following:
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
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Veggie Addition: For some added veggies, you can toss in some spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers along with the garlic in the Alfredo sauce.
Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo is a rich and flavorful dish with tender steak, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy, spicy Alfredo sauce that ties everything together. The Cajun seasoning adds a delicious kick, while the creamy sauce balances the heat perfectly.
Let me know if you need any more tips or adjustments! Enjoy your meal!