Ingredients

1 ½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes

1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or to taste)

½ tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp garlic powder

Salt & black pepper, to taste

2 tbsp olive oil

6 tbsp unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

1 tsp Dijon mustard

Juice of 1 lemon

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped

12 oz cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tortellini according to the package directions until tender but still firm to the bite. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels. Season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak bites for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside to rest.

Step 4: Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice, then add parsley and chives, mixing well.

Step 5: Return the cooked tortellini and steak bites to the skillet. Toss until coated in the cowboy butter sauce. Add reserved pasta water as needed to create a silky, smooth sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

Step 6: Plate the dish while hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan, freshly chopped parsley, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for color and spice. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor, or substitute with dried herbs if needed, adjusting quantity accordingly.

For extra heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Try swapping the cheese tortellini for spinach or mushroom-filled varieties for a different twist.

Resting the steak after cooking helps keep the bites juicy and tender.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of tortellini?

Yes, you can substitute tortellini with other filled pastas like ravioli, or even small shapes such as penne or farfalle. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

How do I prevent the steak bites from becoming tough?

Make sure to pat the steak dry before seasoning and searing to get a good crust. Cook quickly over medium-high heat and avoid overcooking. Allow the meat to rest briefly before combining with the sauce.