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Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni Recipe

Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni Recipe
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★★★★★

4.7 from 8 reviews

This Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni is a rich and flavorful dish combining perfectly seared steak with a spicy Cajun twist, garlic butter sauce, and a luscious creamy rigatoni pasta. Ideal for a comforting yet sophisticated meal, this recipe balances bold spices with creamy cheese for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz rigatoni

Steak & Seasoning

  • 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

Sauce & Garnish

  • 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

  1. Cook 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, then drain and set pasta aside.
  2. Season the Steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels, then rub both sides with Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper evenly.
  3. Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook for about 4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness. Remove steak from skillet and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
  4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to burn it.
  5. Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, low-sodium beef broth, and reserved pasta water. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow sauce to thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
  6. Add Cheese and Season: Stir in shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and red pepper flakes (if using) until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth.
  7. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked rigatoni into the sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
  8. Finish and Serve: Add the sliced steak back into the skillet, drizzle with lemon juice, and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. Toss lightly and serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Use sirloin for leaner steak or ribeye for extra richness and marbling.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning to your desired spice level or substitute with your favorite spice blend.
  • For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy alternative, though the sauce will be less rich.
  • Let the steak rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Reserve pasta water to help loosen the sauce and help it stick to the pasta.
  • Red pepper flakes add heat but are optional depending on your spice preference.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun steak, garlic butter steak, creamy rigatoni, cheesy pasta, spicy steak dinner, Cajun pasta recipe

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