Indulge in a dish that marries the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with the silky richness of Alfredo sauce, all brought together with tender steak strips and vibrant charred bell peppers. This Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo with Charred Peppers is a decadent dinner that feels restaurant-worthy but is surprisingly simple to whip up on a weeknight. The smoky char from the peppers cuts through the creamy sauce, while the Cajun-spiced steak adds a lively kick that keeps every bite exciting. Whether you’re a pasta lover or a steak enthusiast, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.
Why Cooks Rave About It
There’s something undeniably satisfying about a pasta dish that combines creaminess, spice, and a bit of char. The Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo with Charred Peppers stands out because it balances rich and bold flavors effortlessly. The Cajun seasoning lends a smoky, slightly spicy profile to the steak, complementing the luscious Parmesan-infused Alfredo sauce. Meanwhile, the charred red and yellow bell peppers add texture and a subtle sweetness that brightens the dish. Beyond flavor, this recipe is straightforward and uses pantry staples, making it a go-to for anyone craving comfort food with a twist.
If you enjoy dishes that bring together hearty proteins and creamy pasta, be sure to check out the Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo Penne for another delicious take on Alfredo with a flavorful protein.
The Essentials
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto that creamy sauce.
- 1 pound steak (ribeye or sirloin), cut into strips: Ribeye offers more marbling and richness, while sirloin is leaner but still flavorful.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: A blend of spices like paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano that packs a punch.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the steak and sautéing the peppers.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced: Complements the red pepper with a mild, fruity flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The base of the Alfredo sauce, creating that rich texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for flavor layering.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: For a bright, herbal garnish that finishes the dish beautifully.
Prep & Cook Tools
- Large pot: For boiling the fettuccine pasta until al dente.
- Large skillet or cast iron pan: To sear the steak and char the bell peppers.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: For stirring the sauce and sautéing ingredients.
- Knife and cutting board: For slicing steak and peppers.
- Grater: To freshly grate the Parmesan cheese for the best flavor.
- Colander: To drain the cooked pasta.
Build Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo with Charred Peppers Step by Step
Step 1: Cook the Fettuccine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining as it may come in handy to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak
While the pasta cooks, toss the steak strips with the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak in a single layer and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until nicely browned but still juicy inside. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Char the Bell Peppers
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers and cook over medium-high heat. Let the peppers sit undisturbed for a couple of minutes to develop char marks, then stir occasionally until they’re softened and slightly blackened, about 6-8 minutes. Add the minced garlic in the last minute to cook until fragrant.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the peppers and garlic. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine Steak, Pasta, and Sauce
Return the seared steak strips to the skillet and stir to coat them in the creamy sauce. Add the drained fettuccine to the pan, tossing everything together. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm.
For a similar steak-based dinner that’s equally comforting, you might enjoy the Garlic Butter Steak And Mushroom Skillet With Rice, which also features tender steak and rich flavors.
Flavor-Forward Alternatives
- Protein swap: Use chicken breast or shrimp instead of steak for a lighter option.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra heat.
- Cheese variations: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
- Veggie add-ins: Toss in sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra texture and nutrients.
- Herb enhancements: Stir in fresh basil or thyme for a fragrant twist.
Steer Clear of These
- Avoid overcooking the steak to prevent it from becoming tough and dry.
- Don’t skip reserving pasta water—it helps adjust the sauce’s texture perfectly.
- Refrain from using pre-grated Parmesan, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect sauce smoothness.
- Avoid cooking the garlic too early or at too high a heat to prevent bitterness.
Shelf Life & Storage
Store any leftover Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo with Charred Peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Top Questions & Answers
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ribeye and sirloin are great choices because of their flavor and tenderness, but you can also use flank steak or strip steak. Just be mindful to cut the steak against the grain and cook it to your preferred doneness to keep it tender.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative, and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute. Keep in mind the flavor and texture will be slightly different, but still delicious.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?
The Cajun seasoning adds a moderate level of spice and smokiness. If you prefer less heat, use a smaller amount or opt for a mild Cajun blend. Conversely, add more if you like it spicy!
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
You can slice and season the steak and chop the peppers ahead of time. The sauce is best made fresh, but you can prepare the sauce base without cheese and add it just before serving for best results.
Weekend Projects
- Lemon Pepper Chicken Alfredo Penne – Explore a lighter Alfredo pasta with a zesty twist.
- Garlic Butter Steak And Mushroom Skillet With Rice – A hearty skillet meal combining steak and earthy mushrooms.
- Make your own Cajun seasoning blend from scratch to customize your spice levels.
- Experiment with homemade fettuccine pasta for an extra special touch.
The Takeaway
Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo with Charred Peppers is a flavorful, comforting dish that elevates classic Alfredo pasta with a Cajun twist and smoky vegetables. The combination of tender steak, creamy sauce, and charred sweetness creates a memorable meal perfect for sharing or treating yourself. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a recipe that invites you to impress without stress. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish brings bold flavors and creamy indulgence to the table every time.
Bring the spirited flavors of Cajun seasoning and the luxurious texture of Alfredo sauce together in this unforgettable pasta dish. Enjoy!
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Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo with Charred Peppers
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.
- Toss the steak strips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned but juicy. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet. Add sliced red and yellow bell peppers and cook over medium-high heat. Let peppers char undisturbed for a couple minutes, then stir occasionally until softened and slightly blackened, about 6-8 minutes. Add minced garlic in the last minute.
- Lower heat to medium. Pour heavy cream into the skillet with peppers and garlic. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Return seared steak strips to the skillet and stir to coat in sauce. Add drained fettuccine and toss everything together. Add reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency perfectly.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for a smooth, rich Alfredo sauce.
- Don’t overcook the steak to keep it juicy and tender.
- Try swapping steak with chicken or shrimp for a different protein option.
- Add vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition and texture.
