Here’s a recipe for Sizzling Cajun Steak & Parmesan Pasta, a rich, spicy, and creamy dish that blends bold Cajun flavors with juicy steak and cheesy pasta. This recipe is great for a hearty dinner and serves 3–4 people.
🔥 Sizzling Cajun Steak & Parmesan Pasta
🕒 Total Time:
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Prep: 15 minutes
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Cook: 25–30 minutes
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Total: ~45 minutes
📝 Ingredients:
For the Cajun Steak:
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1 lb (450g) sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak (thinly sliced or whole if searing first)
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1½ tbsp Cajun seasoning
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp butter
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Salt & black pepper to taste
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Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice
For the Parmesan Pasta:
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8 oz (225g) fettuccine or penne pasta
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1 tbsp butter
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1 tbsp olive oil
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3–4 cloves garlic, minced
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1½ cups heavy cream
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1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
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½ cup milk (optional for thinning)
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Salt & pepper to taste
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Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
Optional Add-ins:
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1 small onion, sliced
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1 bell pepper (red/yellow), sliced
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1 cup spinach or mushrooms
🍳 Instructions:
🔪 Step 1: Prepare the Steak
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Marinate/Season Steak
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In a bowl, mix sliced steak with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and a bit of olive oil.
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Let it marinate for 15–30 minutes if time allows (for deeper flavor).
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Sear the Steak
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Heat a skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat.
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Add butter and olive oil.
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Sear steak slices until browned and cooked to your desired doneness (about 2–3 min per side for medium). Avoid overcooking.
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Remove steak and set aside. Deglaze pan with a splash of water or broth if needed.
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🍝 Step 2: Cook the Pasta
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In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
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Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
🧄 Step 3: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce
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In the same pan used for the steak, add butter and a bit of olive oil.
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Sauté garlic (and onion/pepper/mushrooms if using) for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
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Pour in heavy cream and stir continuously on low to medium heat.
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Add Parmesan cheese gradually, whisking until smooth and melted.
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Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if desired).
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If too thick, thin with milk or reserved pasta water a little at a time.
🍽️ Step 4: Combine & Serve
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Add drained pasta into the sauce. Toss well to coat.
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Add back the cooked steak and let it heat through.
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Finish with a squeeze of lemon for brightness (optional).
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Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh parsley, or chopped scallions.
🧄 Tips for Best Results:
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Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smooth, creamy sauce.