Spicy Cajun Steak with Creamy Alfredo Pasta
Ingredients:
For the Steak:
2 (8-ounce) sirloin steaks, about 1-inch thick
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the Alfredo Pasta:
1 pound fettuccine pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Steak: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the steaks.
2. Sear the Steak: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steaks and sear for 3-4 minutes per side, until a nice brown crust forms.
3. Finish the Steak: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, minced garlic, and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Tilt the skillet and spoon the melted butter mixture over the steaks for about 2-3 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (130-135°F for medium-rare, 140-145°F for medium).
4. Rest the Steak: Remove the steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for 5-7 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender steak.
5. Cook the Pasta: While the steak rests, cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
6. Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet (wipe it clean if necessary), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
7. Combine Sauce Ingredients: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
8. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the Alfredo sauce.
9. Serve: Slice the rested steak and serve it alongside the creamy Alfredo pasta. Garnish both the steak and pasta with fresh parsley. Enjoy!