Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Cajun Twisted Pasta

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A rich, buttery plate of perfectly seared steak bites paired with creamy, Cajun-spiced rotini pasta is the kind of dinner that transforms your average weeknight into something special. The crisp sear on the beef locks in juicy tenderness, while the spiral pasta captures every bit of the bold, cheesy Cajun sauce. This dish brings together classic steakhouse comfort and the playful heat of Southern spices in a single forkful.

Whether you’re cooking to impress or just need something soul-satisfying on the table fast, this Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Cajun Twisted Pasta recipe will win hearts. From the first golden sear to the final cheesy sprinkle, every step delivers on bold flavor and easy prep. A cozy meal you can dress up or keep simple, depending on your mood and pantry.


What Cut of Beef Works Best for Steak Bites?

Opt for sirloin, tenderloin, or ribeye when making steak bites. These cuts are naturally tender and quick-cooking, making them ideal for high-heat searing. Sirloin is a budget-friendly favorite with great flavor, while tenderloin yields a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Ribeye adds richness thanks to its marbling—just be sure to trim excess fat for even cooking.


Ingredients for the Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Cajun Twisted Pasta

Steak – Choose tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye. The quality of the beef makes all the difference in flavor and texture.

Rotini Pasta – The twisty shape holds onto that creamy Cajun-Parmesan sauce in every crevice.

Garlic – Freshly minced garlic infuses the butter and beef with aromatic depth.

Parmesan Cheese – Aged Parmesan melts into the sauce and gives the steak that perfect salty crust.

Butter – Used to sear the steak and blend into the sauce, adding richness.

Heavy Cream – This is the base of the sauce for the pasta, making it lush and velvety.

Cajun Seasoning – Brings bold heat and smokiness. Adjust to taste.

Parsley – Fresh chopped parsley brightens and balances all the rich flavors.

Salt & Pepper – Essential seasoning to enhance the meat and sauce.


How To Make the Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Cajun Twisted Pasta

Step 1: Prep and Season the Steak

Cut the steak into bite-sized cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches thick. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help them sear properly. Generously season with salt, pepper, and a light sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. Let them sit at room temperature while you prep the rest.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a pot of salted water and cook the rotini pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a half cup of pasta water for later to loosen the sauce if needed.

Step 3: Sear the Steak Bites

Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with butter. Once sizzling, add the steak cubes in batches to avoid crowding. Sear each side for about 2 minutes until a brown crust forms. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cajun Parmesan Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add more butter if needed and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk in Cajun seasoning. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until it thickens slightly, then stir in grated Parmesan until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Toss and Finish

Add the drained pasta into the sauce and toss to coat. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust consistency. Return the steak bites to the skillet and stir gently to warm everything together. Garnish with chopped parsley and more Parmesan on top.


Serving and Storing Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Cajun Twisted Pasta

Serve this dish hot, directly from the skillet, topped with a final dusting of Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess.


Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, penne or rigatoni work well too. Just choose a shape that holds sauce.

How spicy is this dish?

That depends on your Cajun seasoning. Start with a small amount and build up as desired.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter and cream alternatives, and a dairy-free Parmesan-style topping.

What’s the best way to reheat it?

Reheat gently with a bit of cream or milk on the stove over low heat to maintain texture.

Can I prep it ahead?

You can cook the steak bites and pasta ahead of time. Store separately and combine when ready to serve.

Is this freezer friendly?

Cream sauces can separate when frozen, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge within a few days.


Want More Dinner Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Cajun Twisted Pasta, check out these other hearty and flavor-packed meals:

  • Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for a smoky, spicy one-pan dinner.
  • Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry for a sweet-savory combo ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Parmesan Crusted Chicken Alfredo if you’re craving that same creamy-cheesy richness.
  • Spicy Shrimp and Grits for a Southern comfort classic.
  • Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Penne for a tangy, creamy twist.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the Cajun spice? Try a different cut of steak? Add mushrooms or spinach?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better, one bite at a time.


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Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites with Cajun Twisted Pasta


  • Author: Jam Scott
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 3-4 servings

Description

This comforting and flavor-packed dinner features juicy steak bites seared in garlic butter alongside creamy rotini pasta coated in a bold Cajun-Parmesan sauce. It’s the perfect balance of rich, spicy, and cheesy, all on one plate.


Ingredients

1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes

8 oz rotini pasta

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)

1 cup heavy cream

1 to 1.5 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Prep and Season the Steak:
    • Pat steak cubes dry and season with salt, pepper, and a light sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. Let sit while preparing the pasta.
  2. Cook the Pasta:
    • In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook rotini until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  3. Sear the Steak:
    • In a hot skillet, melt 1–2 tbsp of butter and sear steak bites for 1.5–2 minutes per side until browned. Do not overcrowd the pan. Remove and set aside.
  4. Make the Sauce:
    • Lower heat to medium. Add 1 tbsp butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant.
    • Pour in heavy cream and stir in Cajun seasoning. Simmer 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
    • Stir in Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  5. Combine and Finish:
    • Toss cooked pasta in the sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen.
    • Return steak bites to skillet and stir gently. Garnish with parsley and more Parmesan before serving.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner

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