Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

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This indulgent comfort dish is the ultimate fusion of rich, cheesy pasta and bold Cajun-spiced steak. Imagine tender, juicy bites of steak bathed in a garlicky Cajun butter sauce, nestled atop a bed of creamy rigatoni, all finished with melted cheese that brings it all together. It’s hearty, flavorful, and every bite will make your taste buds dance.

Perfect for a cozy dinner night or when you’re craving something luxurious but easy to make at home, this dish feels like a restaurant-quality meal straight from your own kitchen. The layers of flavor and contrasting textures—creamy, spicy, cheesy, and savory—create an unforgettable experience.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

• It’s packed with bold, spicy Cajun flavor balanced by smooth, cheesy rigatoni.
• Ideal for weeknight dinners but impressive enough for guests.
• Ready in under an hour for a satisfying, indulgent meal.
• Combines the best of pasta and steak in one dish.

What Kind of Steak Should I Use?

The best steak for this dish is sirloin or ribeye—they’re flavorful, tender, and cook quickly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, flank steak or strip steak also works beautifully. Just make sure it’s well-marbled to keep things juicy, and slice it thinly after resting to maximize tenderness.

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Ingredients for the Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

To bring this decadent dish to life, you’ll need a combination of pantry staples and fresh ingredients that complement each other perfectly. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Sirloin or Ribeye Steak – Rich in flavor and tender in texture, perfect for searing and slicing.
• Rigatoni Pasta – Its tubular shape holds the creamy cheese sauce beautifully.
• Butter – Essential for the garlic butter base that coats the steak.
• Fresh Garlic – Adds deep, aromatic flavor that enhances the Cajun spice.
• Cajun Seasoning – Brings the bold, spicy kick that defines the dish.
• Heavy Cream – Creates a rich, velvety sauce that clings to the pasta.
• Shredded Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese – For that luscious, gooey, and tangy cheese layer.
• Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.
• Olive Oil – Helps sear the steak and keeps everything from sticking.

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How To Make the Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

Follow these step-by-step instructions to bring this delicious dish together with ease:

Step 1: Cook the Rigatoni

Boil the rigatoni in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak

Rub the steak with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a hot skillet, sear both sides until a nice crust forms, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and let it rest before slicing thinly.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same pan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Stir in a little more Cajun seasoning to flavor the butter.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Pour heavy cream into the pan with the garlic butter, simmer for a couple of minutes, then stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained rigatoni to the cheese sauce and toss to coat evenly.

Step 6: Top with Steak

Slice the rested steak and place it over the creamy pasta. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter over the top.

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How to Serve and Store Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

This recipe yields about 4 hearty servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or an indulgent meal with friends. Serve it hot, straight from the stove, so the cheese is gooey and the steak remains tender. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra Parmesan for that finishing touch.

To store leftovers, let everything cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving the steak to maintain its texture.

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What to Serve With Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni?

Pair this rich dish with lighter sides and crisp textures to balance the flavors.

Garlic Bread

Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, perfect for scooping up extra sauce.

Caesar Salad

The fresh crunch and tangy dressing complement the creamy pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds a healthy, earthy element with just the right bite.

Grilled Asparagus

A crisp and slightly smoky vegetable to cut through the richness.

Sparkling Water with Lemon

A simple palate cleanser that refreshes between bites.

Sauteed Spinach

A quick, garlicky green to add color and nutrients.

Bruschetta

Light and fresh tomato topping offers contrast to the creamy rigatoni.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, you can use flank, strip, or even filet if preferred. Just adjust cooking times to prevent overcooking.

Is this dish spicy?
The Cajun seasoning brings a mild to moderate heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with half the amount and adjust to taste.

Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prep components like the sauce and steak in advance, but for the best texture, combine everything just before serving.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Whole milk can work, but it won’t be as rich or creamy. A combination of milk and a little butter can help substitute the texture.

Can this be made gluten-free?
Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free as well.

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Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use sirloin or go fancy with filet? Add extra cheese? Or more Cajun heat?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and dinner inspiration on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next weeknight favorite!

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Conclusion

Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni is more than just dinner—it’s a celebration of bold flavor and comforting textures. Perfectly seared steak meets luscious cheesy pasta, delivering a dish that’s as impressive as it is easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy. Add it to your rotation for an unforgettable mealtime experience.

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