Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni Recipe
Savor the rich and flavorful Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak paired with creamy rigatoni pasta. This comforting dish features tender sirloin or ribeye steak seasoned with Cajun spices, cooked to perfection in garlic butter, and served with rigatoni enveloped in a luscious creamy sauce bursting with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Ideal for a satisfying dinner, this recipe combines bold Cajun flavors and indulgent creaminess for a memorable meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing and Simmering
- Cuisine: American Cajun
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
Scale
For the Pasta
- 12 oz rigatoni
For the Steak
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining the pasta. Set both aside.
- Season the Steak: Pat the steak dry and rub both sides evenly with Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper to enhance flavors.
- Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a heavy skillet. Add the steak and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, adjusting time to desired doneness. Once cooked, remove steak from the pan and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in heavy cream, reserved pasta water, and low-sodium beef broth. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan until melted and smooth. If desired, add red pepper flakes for a subtle heat. Season with lemon juice and adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine Rigatoni and Sauce: Add cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss gently to coat the pasta thoroughly in the creamy, cheesy sauce.
- Serve with Steak: Plate the creamy rigatoni and top with sliced Cajun garlic butter steak. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use ribeye for a richer, more tender steak or sirloin for a leaner option.
- Reserve some pasta water to help achieve the perfect sauce consistency.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning amount to control the spice level.
- Resting the steak is crucial for juicy, tender slices.
- Optional red pepper flakes add a nice mild heat but can be omitted for a milder dish.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute rigatoni with gluten-free pasta.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 680 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 52 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg
Keywords: Cajun steak, garlic butter steak, creamy rigatoni, cheesy pasta, easy dinner, comfort food, Cajun seasoning recipe
