If you love bold flavors and comforting pasta dishes, then you are in for a real treat with this Creamy Cajun Butter Steak Pasta Skillet Recipe. It brings together tender, perfectly seasoned steak slices with a luxuriously creamy sauce infused with Cajun spices, all tossed with your favorite pasta. This dish is an irresistible combination of smoky, spicy, and buttery goodness that will have your whole kitchen smelling amazing and your family begging for seconds. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this skillet meal is both quick to prepare and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish unforgettable. From the rich cream and savory Parmesan to the bold Cajun spices and tender steak, every element works harmoniously to create something truly special.
- 2 ribeye steaks or flank steak: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and juicy tenderness.
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine): The hearty base that soaks up that creamy sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps develop a silky sauce texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Balances the butter by adding a subtle fruity flavor and helps sear the steak.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning: The cornerstone of bold flavor with a perfect blend of spices and heat.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a delicate smoky aroma that complements the Cajun spices perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory depth without overpowering the fresh garlic.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the spice.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh and fragrant, essential for that warm, aromatic base.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, creamy texture the pasta coats perfectly.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Adds a savory backbone and keeps the sauce light enough to enjoy.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a salty, nutty finish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that tie all the flavors together.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor at the end.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Butter Steak Pasta Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. This ensures the noodles have the perfect bite and won’t get mushy once tossed in the creamy sauce later. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, keeping it warm for the next steps.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter and olive oil together. Adding both creates a beautiful balance for browning. Toss the thinly sliced steak in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, coating each piece evenly. Sear the steak slices for about 4 to 5 minutes until they develop a golden-brown crust—this is where the magic starts with lots of flavor building. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Right in the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. This simple step infuses the sauce with fresh garlic aroma without overpowering the other tastes. Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, stirring to combine all the flavors left behind from the steak. Let it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes irresistibly creamy.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Steak
Return the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring gently to coat every nook with that velvety Cajun cream sauce. Now, add the seared steak back into the pan, tossing everything together so the tender meat and sauce mingle perfectly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top and let it melt into the sauce for 2 to 3 minutes, creating a smooth, cheesy finish that ties everything together.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve
Give your creamy Cajun concoction a quick taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed to your preference. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a vibrant burst of color and freshness. Your Creamy Cajun Butter Steak Pasta Skillet Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed hot and full of flavor.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Butter Steak Pasta Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is your go-to garnish here, adding more than just color—it brings a light herbal note that perfectly balances the rich, creamy sauce. If you want a little extra flair, a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes or a twist of lemon zest can add a nice punch and brightness to each bite.
Side Dishes
Because this skillet recipe is so rich and satisfying on its own, it pairs beautifully with simple green sides. Consider a crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to provide a refreshing contrast. Some crusty garlic bread is also a crowd-pleaser for sopping up every last bit of that creamy Cajun sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests or add a bit of wow-factor, serve the pasta right in the skillet it was made in for a rustic, inviting presentation. You can also dish it out into individual bowls and top each serving with a bit of extra Parmesan and parsley. For a fun twist, add a poached egg on top to elevate the creaminess even more, making it a perfect brunch or special dinner option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your creamy Cajun butter steak pasta, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This gives you the convenience of a ready-to-go meal that warms up wonderfully if you want a quick lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this dish can be frozen, but keep in mind the cream sauce might change texture slightly after thawing. Freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
When reheating, do so slowly over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and bring back that creamy consistency. Stir often to prevent sticking and ensure the steak remains tender. Avoid high heat which can cause the sauce to separate.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of steak for the Creamy Cajun Butter Steak Pasta Skillet Recipe?
Absolutely! Ribeye and flank steak work wonderfully because they’re flavorful and tender when sliced thinly, but sirloin or even skirt steak can also be used. Just be sure to slice thin to ensure quick cooking and tenderness.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour or cornstarch for thickening, but keep in mind the sauce won’t be quite as rich and creamy as the original.
How spicy is the Creamy Cajun Butter Steak Pasta Skillet Recipe?
The level of spiciness depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. Most have a moderate heat, but you can adjust by adding less or more seasoning or balancing with extra cream to tone down the spice if desired.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the pasta for a gluten-free pasta variety. Make sure your Cajun seasoning and beef broth are also gluten-free to keep the dish completely safe for gluten sensitivities.
What pasta works best in this dish?
Penne and fettuccine are excellent choices because they hold onto the creamy sauce well. However, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape—just be sure it’s sturdy enough to carry the sauce without getting soggy.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cajun Butter Steak Pasta Skillet Recipe is truly one of those dishes that feels like a big warm hug on a plate. With its melty, creamy sauce, tender Cajun-seasoned steak, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a meal that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. I can’t wait for you to try it and share that delicious satisfaction with your friends and family!
Print
Creamy Cajun Butter Steak Pasta Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Irresistible Creamy Cajun Butter Steak Pasta Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender slices of ribeye steak are seared with bold Cajun spices, then tossed with al dente pasta in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce, finished with fresh parsley for a vibrant touch.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 2 ribeye steaks or flank steak, sliced thinly
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat Fat in Skillet: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add butter and olive oil, allowing them to melt and combine.
- Season and Sear Steak: Add the thinly sliced steak to the skillet. Season it evenly with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sear the steak for 4–5 minutes until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Make Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, stirring constantly to combine with the garlic and pan drippings. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Return the cooked pasta to the skillet and stir well to coat the noodles evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Add Steak Back: Add the seared steak slices back into the skillet and toss everything together so the steak is coated in the Cajun cream sauce.
- Melt Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and steak mixture and cook for another 2–3 minutes until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Adjust Seasoning and Garnish: Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve Warm: Serve the creamy Cajun butter steak pasta skillet immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute ribeye or flank steak with sirloin or strip steak if preferred.
- If you want a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though sauce may be less thick.
- Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes when seasoning the steak.
