Creamy, bold, and undeniably satisfying, this Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Alfredo Tortellini is a dream dinner you’ll want on repeat. Imagine perfectly seared steak bites seasoned with Cajun spice and garlic butter, paired with cheesy tortellini drenched in rich Alfredo sauce—it’s the comfort food duo you didn’t know you needed.
This dish marries southern spice with Italian indulgence, creating a plate that’s as flavorful as it is comforting. Whether you’re making dinner for guests or craving a hearty meal for two, this recipe checks every box: quick to prepare, stunning on a plate, and overflowing with flavor.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process, set yourself up for success with the right tools:
- Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Pan: Crucial for getting that restaurant-style sear on the steak. Cast iron retains high heat, helping to lock in the juices and build flavor.
- Medium Saucepan: Used to warm and mix the Alfredo sauce with the tortellini without scorching the dairy.
- Tongs: These allow you to flip the steak cubes precisely and safely without piercing the meat.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring creamy sauces without scratching your pan.
- Meat Thermometer (Optional): Helpful to ensure your steak hits that perfect internal temperature.
Having these tools ready means smoother cooking and a better final result.
Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Alfredo Tortellini
- Sirloin Steak: Tender and flavorful, sirloin holds up beautifully to searing and absorbs the Cajun butter perfectly.
- Cheese Tortellini: These little pasta pockets offer a creamy, cheesy center that complements the boldness of the steak.
- Heavy Cream: The foundation of our Alfredo sauce, it brings richness and silkiness.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth to the Alfredo sauce and helps it cling to every bite.
- Unsalted Butter: Used to create the garlic butter and control salt levels.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is a must—it infuses the butter and steak with unmistakable flavor.
- Cajun Seasoning: The heart of this recipe, providing a smoky, spicy punch that transforms the steak.
- Olive Oil: Helps in searing the steak evenly and enhances the garlic butter.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Fresh Parsley (Optional): A bright finishing touch for presentation and freshness.


How To Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Alfredo Tortellini
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Chop your steak into bite-sized cubes and season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mince the garlic and set aside. Start boiling water for the tortellini.
Step 2: Cook the Tortellini
Boil the cheese tortellini according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside while you make the Alfredo sauce.
Step 3: Sear the Steak
Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak cubes until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat and melt butter. Add in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Return the steak to the pan and toss to coat in the garlic butter.
Step 5: Prepare Alfredo Sauce
In a separate saucepan, heat heavy cream and stir in grated Parmesan until smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste. Let it thicken for a couple of minutes.
Step 6: Combine Tortellini and Sauce
Gently fold the cooked tortellini into the Alfredo sauce. Stir to coat evenly.
Step 7: Plate and Serve
Serve the Cajun garlic butter steak alongside the cheesy Alfredo tortellini. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and more Parmesan if desired.
Serving and Storing Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Alfredo Tortellini
This dish is best served hot, right off the stove, when the steak is juicy and the Alfredo is creamy and fresh. Arrange the steak and tortellini side by side on a plate, or layer the steak right over the pasta for a bistro-style presentation. Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium-low heat and add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating works too—just stir halfway through to ensure even warming.
Frequently Asked Questions
How spicy is Cajun seasoning?
Cajun seasoning typically carries a moderate heat level with smoky and peppery undertones. If you’re spice-sensitive, reduce the amount or opt for a milder blend.
Can I use another cut of steak?
Absolutely. Ribeye, New York strip, or even filet mignon work well. Just keep an eye on the cook time to maintain tenderness.
Is store-bought Alfredo okay to use?
Yes! While homemade Alfredo is richer, a quality store-bought sauce can save time. Just heat gently and season to taste.
Can I substitute the tortellini?
Sure thing. Ravioli, gnocchi, or even penne pasta can work, though tortellini’s cheesy filling is part of what makes this dish special.
How do I make this dish low-carb?
Swap the tortellini with roasted cauliflower or zucchini noodles and skip the Alfredo for a garlic butter drizzle.
Do I need to marinate the steak?
No marinating is needed. The Cajun rub and garlic butter give the steak tons of flavor without waiting time.
Want More Pasta and Steak Combo Ideas?
If this Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Alfredo Tortellini has your tastebuds tingling, you’ll definitely want to check out these other hearty and satisfying meals:
- Sticky Honey Garlic Steak and Rotini with a savory-sweet glaze.
- Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce for a creamy twist on family pasta night.
- Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini for a garlicky, herby upgrade.
- Spicy Cajun Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta if you want to keep the Cajun vibe going.
- Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake for a bold, baked pasta finish.
Save This Recipe for Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Life With Olivia on Pinterest
Let me know in the comments how it turned out for you! Did you try a different pasta or crank up the Cajun? I’d love to hear how you made this dish your own.
Have a question or tip to share? Drop it below—let’s make dinnertime easier and tastier together.


Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Alfredo Tortellini
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Alfredo Tortellini blends smoky, seared steak bites with rich, cheesy tortellini smothered in creamy Alfredo sauce. A comforting, flavor-packed dish perfect for weeknight indulgence or impressing guests.
Ingredients
1 lb sirloin steak, cubed
9 oz cheese tortellini
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Chop the steak into bite-sized cubes and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mince garlic.
2. Bring a pot of salted water to boil and cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high. Sear the steak cubes for 3–4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
4. Lower heat and melt butter in the same skillet. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Return steak to skillet and toss in garlic butter.
5. In a saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium-low. Stir in Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season to taste.
6. Fold tortellini into the Alfredo sauce until evenly coated.
7. Serve steak alongside or on top of the Alfredo tortellini. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Make sure your skillet is hot before searing to get a perfect crust on the steak.
Stir Alfredo sauce constantly to prevent the cream from separating.
You can use fresh or refrigerated tortellini for best results—avoid dry shelf-stable versions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 39g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: steak, pasta, Cajun, Alfredo
