Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni Recipe

If you are craving a dish that masterfully combines bold Cajun spices with creamy, cheesy indulgence, then this Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni is exactly what you need in your kitchen. Every forkful bursts with the smoky richness of perfectly seared steak, the aromatic garlic butter sauce, and a velvety rigatoni blanketed in luscious cheese sauce. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels fancy enough for special occasions yet is surprisingly easy to whip up on any weeknight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but chosen with care to build layers of flavor and texture in your Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni. From tender rigatoni that holds onto the sauce beautifully to the perfectly seasoned steak and that dreamy mix of cheeses, each component contributes something special.

• 12 oz rigatoni: The ridges and hollow centers are perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
• 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak (about 1-inch thick): Choose a cut with good marbling for juicy and flavorful bites.
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning: Adds that signature smoky, spicy punch essential to the dish.
• 1 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle sharpness that wakes up the palate.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: For a perfect sear on the steak, locking in those juices.
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter: The base for a rich garlic butter sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Hands down, garlic elevates the sauce and steak to irresistible levels.
• 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky texture in the pasta sauce.
• 1/2 cup reserved pasta water: Helps loosen the sauce and marry it beautifully with the rigatoni.
• 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth: Adds depth and umami without overwhelming saltiness.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella: Melts into a gooey, bubbly delight in the creamy sauce.
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan: Provides sharpness and a nutty finish.
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional): Kicks up the heat just a touch if you’re feeling bold.
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: Brightens every bite with a fresh herbal note.
• 1 tsp lemon juice: Adds a little zing, balancing the richness perfectly.

How to Make Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

Step 1: Prep Your Steak and Pasta

Start by seasoning your steak generously with the Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soak in those vibrant spices. Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve half a cup of pasta water before draining, since this will be key for your sauce.

Step 2: Sear the Steak to Perfection

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the pan is smoking hot, add the steak and sear it for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness. Once cooked, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest while you make the sauce. Resting helps preserve all the delicious juices inside.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the unsalted butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden, about 1-2 minutes—make sure not to burn it! Pour in the heavy cream, reserved pasta water, and beef broth, stirring constantly to combine into a smooth sauce. Let it gently simmer and thicken for 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Cheese It Up and Spice It Right

Lower the heat and stir in shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if using. The cheese will melt slowly, creating that indulgently creamy and cheesy sauce that coats every rigatoni piece. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Steak

Slice your rested steak into thin strips. Toss the rigatoni in the sauce until perfectly coated, then gently fold in the steak slices. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness that balances all the richness on your plate.

How to Serve Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra grated Parmesan and fresh parsley right before serving to enhance the cheesy goodness and add a lively herbal contrast. A few red pepper flakes on top can bring a lovely hint of heat if your guests like it spicy. The visual appeal of bright green parsley against the creamy pasta will also wow your dinner party.

Side Dishes

This hearty main pairs beautifully with crisp, refreshing sides like a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli. Garlic bread or toasted baguette slices are also fantastic for mopping up every last bit of that luscious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a more elegant presentation, serve the creamy rigatoni on warmed plates and fan the steak slices on top or alongside. You can also try plating with microgreens or edible flowers to impress guests visually. If you want to turn this into a casserole style, bake the assembled dish with extra mozzarella on top until golden and bubbly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making leftovers even tastier. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing to keep it fresh.

Freezing

This dish freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Note that the texture of the steak may soften slightly upon thawing, but the overall flavor remains fantastic. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce feels too thick. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to maintain creamy consistency without drying out the steak or pasta. Garnish again with fresh parsley before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While rigatoni is perfect for holding onto the sauce, penne, fusilli, or even farfalle will work beautifully if that’s what you have on hand.

How spicy is this Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni?

The spice level can be tailored to your taste; the Cajun seasoning provides a warm, smoky heat, and you can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them altogether for a milder dish.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with whole milk combined with a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch to thicken, but heavy cream delivers that extra richness this dish is known for.

Can I prepare the steak ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the steak earlier and add it just before serving. However, searing it fresh will give you the best texture and flavor in your final presentation.

Is this dish suitable for a dinner party?

Definitely! It’s both decadent and impressive but easy enough to prepare without stress, making it a fantastic choice to wow your guests.

Final Thoughts

If you want to savor a dish that is the perfect marriage of bold Cajun spices, creamy cheesy sauce, and tender steak, then I wholeheartedly encourage you to make this Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni. It effortlessly turns any meal into a celebration and might just become one of your new favorite comfort foods. Trust me, once you try it, it’s hard not to fall in love with.

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