Looking to elevate your pasta night with bold Southern flavors and restaurant-quality flair? This Cajun Creamy Steak Fettuccine with Cheddar Alfredo Sauce is a rich, savory dish that blends perfectly seared steak with a creamy, cheesy Cajun-spiced sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food for anyone who loves a little kick in their creamy pasta.
Advertisements
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
-
One-pan flavor explosion: Savory steak and creamy pasta all in one skillet.
-
Customizable heat: Perfectly spiced with room for extra kick if desired.
-
Perfect for weeknights or entertaining: Rich and satisfying, yet easy to prepare.
-
Packed with protein and bold Cajun flavor.
Ingredients Breakdown
Protein:
-
1 lb steak (ribeye or sirloin), sliced – Adds a meaty, savory richness; seared for extra flavor.
Pasta:
-
12 oz fettuccine pasta – Thick and sturdy, ideal for holding the creamy sauce.
Fats & Oils:
-
2 tbsp olive oil – Used for searing the steak.
-
2 tbsp butter – Adds richness to the sautéed onions and garlic.
Aromatics:
-
1 small onion, diced – Brings sweetness and depth to the sauce.
-
2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with classic garlicky flavor.
Seasonings & Spices:
-
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning – Delivers a spicy, smoky kick.
-
1/2 tsp smoked paprika – Enhances the smoky depth.
-
1/2 tsp garlic powder – Boosts the savory notes.
-
Salt and black pepper to taste
-
Red pepper flakes (optional) – For those who like extra heat.
Cream Sauce:
-
2 cups heavy cream – Forms the luxurious base of the Alfredo sauce.
-
1 tbsp tomato paste – Adds a subtle umami and color to the sauce.
-
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Classic Alfredo ingredient for depth and sharpness.
-
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Adds richness and tangy contrast.
Garnish:
-
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley – Adds freshness and a pop of color.
Tips and Tricks:
-
Slice steak thinly for even cooking and tenderness.
-
Reserve some pasta water to thin the sauce if it gets too thick.
-
Make it milder by reducing Cajun seasoning and skipping the red pepper flakes.
-
Double the sauce if you prefer extra creaminess.
Variations and Customizations:
-
Swap the protein: Try grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage instead of steak.
-
Vegetarian option: Omit the steak and add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
-
Use different pasta: Penne, linguine, or tagliatelle work just as well.
-
Make it smoky: Add a splash of liquid smoke or diced smoked sausage.
Pairing Suggestions:
This spicy, creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with:
Advertisements
-
Garlic bread or toasted baguette
-
Steamed broccoli or grilled asparagus
-
Sparkling lemonade or an iced tea with citrus for a non-alcoholic option
Storage Instructions:
-
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
-
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed.
-
Do not freeze: Cream sauces tend to separate when thawed.
Popular Questions:
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. You can prepare the sauce and steak ahead, then cook the pasta fresh and combine everything before serving.
Is this too spicy for kids?
You can easily control the heat. Reduce or omit the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes for a milder version.
Can I use pre-cooked steak?
Yes. Simply warm the steak in the sauce instead of searing it fresh.
Advertisements
What’s the difference between this and classic Alfredo?
Traditional Alfredo sauce doesn’t contain cheddar, Cajun seasoning, or tomato paste. This version adds bold flavor and a Southern twist.
Print
Cajun Creamy Steak Fettuccine with Cheddar Alfredo Sauce
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Cajun-Style Creamy Steak Fettuccine – Tender, spiced steak strips tossed in a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce with garlic, onions, and Cajun kick. Bold, creamy, and ready in no time—the ultimate comfort dish for spice lovers
Advertisements
Ingredients
-
1 lb steak (ribeye or sirloin), sliced into strips
-
12 oz fettuccine pasta
-
2 tablespoons olive oil
-
2 tablespoons butter
-
1 small onion, diced
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
-
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
-
½ teaspoon garlic powder
-
2 cups heavy cream
-
1 tablespoon tomato paste
-
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
-
Salt and black pepper, to taste
-
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
-
Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
-
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
-
Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente.
-
Drain and set aside.
2. Sear the Steak
-
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
-
Add steak strips and season with salt, black pepper, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
-
Cook for 4–5 minutes, or until the steak is nicely browned.
-
Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics
-
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
-
Add diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
-
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce
-
Stir in tomato paste and let it cook for 1 minute to deepen flavor.
-
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly.
-
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
5. Add Cheeses and Season
-
Reduce heat to low.
-
Stir in Parmesan and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
-
Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
6. Combine Pasta and Steak
-
Return steak to the skillet, along with cooked fettuccine.
-
Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated and heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve
-
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes.
-
Serve hot for a creamy, spicy, and hearty meal.
Notes
-
Use high-quality cheese for the smoothest sauce texture.
-
Avoid overcooking the steak—it should remain tender, not chewy.
-
Stir the pasta into the sauce immediately for best absorption and flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Advertisements