Seared Garlic Steak Bites with Creamy Cajun Tortellini Pasta
Ingredients:
1.5 pounds sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (extra for sauce)
2 tablespoons butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak cubes with salt, pepper, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic.
2. Add the steak to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, and extra Cajun seasoning. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
6. Add the cooked tortellini to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy Cajun sauce. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to achieve the desired sauce consistency.
7. Add the cooked steak bites back into the skillet and stir everything together to combine and heat through.
8. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4