There’s something magical about a dish that brings together rich, creamy indulgence with bold, spicy heat. Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo Penne is exactly that—a perfect balance of flavors, textures, and satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want a restaurant-quality meal at home, this dish is your go-to!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
💥 Big flavors, easy steps – The Cajun-spiced steak bites are juicy and flavorful, while the Alfredo sauce is luxuriously creamy with just the right amount of heat.
⏱ Quick and weeknight-friendly – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
🍝 A match made in heaven – Tender steak bites + spicy Cajun Alfredo pasta? Yes, please!
🔥 Customizable heat level – Love spice? Add more cayenne! Prefer it mild? Reduce the Cajun seasoning.
What Does It Taste Like?
Every bite is an explosion of rich, buttery goodness and bold Cajun spice. The steak is seared to perfection with a golden crust, while the creamy Alfredo sauce clings to the penne, coating every bite with silky, garlicky, and slightly smoky heat. This dish is comfort food with a kick!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Steak Bites:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp butter (for a rich, golden sear)
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Spicy Cajun Alfredo Sauce:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream (for that luscious, creamy texture)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
✔ Large skillet or cast-iron pan
✔ Pasta pot
✔ Strainer
✔ Tongs (for easy flipping of steak bites)
✔ Whisk (for the Alfredo sauce)
How to Make Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo Penne
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the penne according to package instructions (usually around 10-12 minutes).
- Drain and set aside, but don’t rinse—it helps the sauce stick better!
Step 2: Sear the Steak Bites
- Heat 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the steak cubes and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Sear for 3 minutes per side until browned and slightly crispy on the outside but still juicy inside.
- Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Spicy Cajun Alfredo Sauce
- In the same pan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Pour in the heavy cream and whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Add Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
- Toss the cooked penne pasta in the creamy Alfredo sauce until well coated.
- Plate the pasta and top with the garlic butter steak bites.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy every indulgent bite!
What to Serve with This Dish
🌽 Grilled or roasted veggies – Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers add a fresh contrast.
🥖 Garlic bread – Because more garlic and butter is always a good idea!
🥗 A light salad – A crisp Caesar or garden salad balances the richness.
🍷 A glass of red wine – A bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with the steak.
Tips for the Best Steak Bites
🔥 Use a hot pan – This ensures a nice sear and locks in the juices.
🥩 Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cook in batches if needed to prevent steaming.
⏳ Rest the steak bites – Let them sit for a few minutes before serving for maximum juiciness.
🧈 Use butter, not oil – Butter adds richness and enhances the Cajun spices.
Storage & Reheating
🛑 Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
♨ Reheating:
- Stovetop: Heat a splash of cream or milk in a pan before adding leftovers. Stir until warmed through.
- Microwave: Reheat in short intervals, stirring between each, to prevent the sauce from separating.
🥶 Freezing? While the steak freezes well, Alfredo sauce doesn’t hold up great due to the dairy. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes! Ribeye, New York strip, or filet mignon work beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time based on thickness.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! Add extra cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or even a splash of hot sauce.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta, and double-check that your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a bit of cream cheese for richness.
Variations & Customizations
🔄 Swap the Protein – Not a fan of steak? Try chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a different twist! Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
🧀 Extra Cheesy Goodness – Love cheese? Stir in shredded mozzarella or extra Parmesan for an even creamier sauce.
🍋 Brighten it Up – A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving adds a nice contrast to the richness.
🥓 Bacon Lovers’ Twist – Crispy bacon bits sprinkled on top? Yes, please!
Make It a One-Pan Meal
Short on time? Here’s a one-pan shortcut:
- Cook the steak bites first, then remove them from the pan.
- In the same pan, make the Alfredo sauce and toss in the pasta.
- Add the steak bites back in at the end, stir everything together, and serve!
Fewer dishes, same incredible flavor!
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: ~650
- Protein: ~40g
- Carbohydrates: ~55g
- Fat: ~35g
- Sodium: ~750mg
Note: These values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.
The Ultimate Comfort Food with a Kick!
Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Spicy Cajun Alfredo Penne is one of those dishes that makes you feel like a culinary rockstar without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s rich, creamy, spicy, and totally satisfying.
🔥 If you make this, I’d love to see it! Tag me on Pinterest or Instagram with your masterpiece. And don’t forget to leave a review—it means the world!
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Enjoy, and happy cooking! 🍽
