If you’re craving something rich, creamy, and unapologetically bold, this Spicy Cajun Steak with Parmesan Fettuccine Pasta is your answer. With tender ribeye or sirloin coated in fiery Cajun seasoning and paired with silky parmesan cream sauce over fettuccine, each bite is the perfect balance of heat and comfort. This recipe was born out of a “treat yourself” night, where I had one steak in the fridge and a half-box of pasta—and the results were magical. You’re just one skillet and saucepan away from a meal that feels indulgent, yet comes together easily at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to adore about this spicy Cajun steak pasta combo:
- Flavor-Packed: The Cajun rub brings heat and smokiness, perfectly mellowed by the rich, cheesy pasta.
- Simple Yet Fancy: It looks gourmet, but it’s surprisingly easy—no fancy tools or techniques required.
- Flexible Protein Choice: Works great with ribeye, sirloin, or even chicken or shrimp.
- Comfort Food Magic: Cream, butter, garlic, and parmesan turn ordinary pasta into a restaurant-worthy dish.
History & Fun Facts About Spicy Cajun Steak with Parmesan Fettuccine Pasta
Let’s break down the roots of this crave-worthy dish:
- Cajun seasoning comes from Louisiana’s French-speaking Acadian settlers. It’s all about bold, rustic flavors.
- Steak and pasta pairings became trendy in American cuisine in the 2000s, especially in Southern-inspired restaurants.
- Creamy parmesan sauce is a spin on Alfredo, rich with dairy and often found in comforting Italian-American meals.
- TikTok and Pinterest helped popularize this exact combo—search “Cajun steak pasta” and you’ll find endless variations!
Key Ingredients in Spicy Cajun Steak with Parmesan Fettuccine Pasta
- Ribeye or Sirloin Steak – Juicy and tender, these cuts soak up the Cajun flavor and sear beautifully.
- Cajun Seasoning – Adds smoky spice and character; the heart of this dish’s bold flavor.
- Fettuccine Pasta – Wide ribbons that catch every drop of creamy parmesan sauce.
- Heavy Cream – The velvety base that gives the sauce its luscious, rich texture.
- Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated cheese brings sharp, nutty goodness to the sauce.
- Butter & Garlic – Classic aromatics that create the savory backbone of your pasta.
How to Make Spicy Cajun Steak with Parmesan Fettuccine Pasta
The Easy Step-by-Step Method
- Season the Steak:
Pat your steak dry, rub with olive oil, and coat generously in Cajun seasoning. Add a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Let rest at room temperature for 15–20 minutes. - Cook the Fettuccine:
Bring salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, then reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining. - Make the Parmesan Sauce:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add parmesan and whisk until smooth and melted. Season with salt and pepper. - Sear the Steak:
Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Sear the steak 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Let rest for 10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain. - Toss the Pasta:
Add drained fettuccine to the sauce. Toss gently to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to thin out the sauce. - Assemble the Dish:
Plate the creamy fettuccine, then top with sliced Cajun steak. Garnish with chopped parsley, red pepper flakes, and more parmesan.
Spicy Cajun Steak with Parmesan Fettuccine Pasta Tips and Twists
Make this dish your own with these ideas:
Cooking Tips:
- Use freshly grated parmesan—it melts better and tastes richer.
- Let your steak rest after cooking for maximum juiciness.
- Don’t skip salting the pasta water—it’s the foundation of flavor.
- Add pasta water a little at a time for the perfect sauce texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before plating.
Variations:
- Make It Shrimp: Swap steak for Cajun shrimp for a lighter version.
- Add Greens: Stir in spinach or kale just before serving.
- Low Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles instead of fettuccine.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips
Here’s how to keep your Spicy Cajun Steak with Parmesan Fettuccine Pasta fresh and tasty:
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
- Make-Ahead: You can cook the steak and prepare the sauce ahead. Reheat both and toss with fresh pasta when ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Take your Cajun steak pasta to the next level with these pairings:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery, and perfect for scooping up extra sauce.
- Green Salad: Something acidic, like a lemon vinaigrette, balances the richness.
- Sautéed Greens: Quick-cooked spinach or broccolini adds color and nutrients.
- Wine Pairing: Try a lightly chilled rosé or full-bodied white like chardonnay.
- A Dash of Heat: Offer hot sauce on the side for those who love it spicy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best cut of steak for this?
Ribeye and sirloin are ideal—flavorful and tender when seared.
Can I use pre-shredded parmesan?
You can, but it won’t melt as smoothly. Freshly grated is worth it.
Is there a dairy-free version?
You can use coconut cream and vegan cheese, though it will change the flavor.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes—just use gluten-free fettuccine and double-check your Cajun seasoning ingredients.
How spicy is this dish?
It’s moderately spicy, but you can reduce or increase the Cajun seasoning to your liking.
Enjoy Your Spicy Cajun Steak with Parmesan Fettuccine Pasta
This Spicy Cajun Steak with Parmesan Fettuccine Pasta is the definition of comfort meets kick. You’ll love how the seasoned steak sizzles to perfection and how the velvety pasta wraps around every bite. It’s a date-night dish, a dinner party favorite, or a solo treat-yourself meal—no matter when or how you serve it, it’s bound to impress. So grab your skillet, your pasta pot, and dive into this flavorful, easy-to-master recipe!
Explore More Recipes Like This
If you love bold flavors and creamy textures, check these out from Abby’s Recipes:
- Try the Smoked Spatchcock Chicken for another smoky, juicy dinner idea.
- Love pasta? The Simple Marry Me Chicken Pasta brings creamy, herby magic.
- Want something handheld and spicy? This Easy Spicy Chicken Sandwich is a crowd-pleaser.
- Indulge in layers of cheese and pasta with Chicken Alfredo Lasagna.
- Finish with sweet comfort—our Chocolate Fudge Cake is rich and fudgy perfection.
Spicy Cajun Steak with Parmesan Fettuccine Pasta
Ingredients
For the Cajun Steak:
- 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Parmesan Fettuccine:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup freshly grated parmesan
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup reserved pasta water as needed
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Red pepper flakes
- Extra parmesan
Instructions
- Pat the steak dry. Rub with olive oil and coat generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 15–20 minutes.
- Cook fettuccine in salted water until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds. Stir in cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add parmesan and whisk until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat. Sear steak for 3–4 minutes per side. Rest for 10 minutes, then slice thin.
- Toss cooked pasta with the parmesan sauce, adding pasta water as needed to loosen.
- Plate the pasta and top with sliced Cajun steak.
- Garnish with parsley, red pepper flakes, and extra cheese if desired.
Notes
Calories: 750 kcal (approx. per serving)
Protein: 42g | Carbs: 52g | Fat: 45g | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g
(Note: Nutrition is estimated.)