Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet

Save this recipe on:

If you’re craving something rich, spicy, and downright indulgent, this Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet is going to be your new obsession. Imagine perfectly seared slices of tender steak resting over a bed of creamy, Cajun-spiced pasta—every bite a perfect mix of heat, butter, and savory goodness. It’s the kind of comfort food that turns an ordinary dinner into something unforgettable.

This dish brings the bold flavors of Louisiana straight to your kitchen, balancing smoky paprika and garlic with the creamy texture of the sauce and the juicy tenderness of well-seasoned steak. Whether you’re serving it up for a cozy date night or impressing guests at a dinner party, this skillet is a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to make.

---

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet

This recipe delivers the perfect combination of creamy and spicy, with the Cajun butter sauce elevating the steak and pasta to restaurant-quality status. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for entertaining. Plus, it’s a one-skillet meal—less cleanup, more flavor!

---

What Kind of Steak Should I Use?

The best cuts for this dish are those that cook quickly and stay tender—think sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip. These cuts sear beautifully and soak up the Cajun butter flavor like a dream. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, flank steak also works well, just be sure to slice it thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.

---

Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet

Each ingredient in this recipe has a purpose—from building flavor to creating that luxuriously creamy texture we all crave in a skillet pasta.

• Sirloin or Ribeye Steak – These tender cuts are ideal for high-heat searing and soaking up all the spicy butter flavor.
• Penne Pasta – A sturdy pasta that holds the creamy sauce well in every crevice.
• Butter – The base of our Cajun sauce that gives it a rich, velvety texture.
• Heavy Cream – Essential for that thick and creamy consistency that hugs each pasta piece.
• Garlic – Freshly minced for deep savory notes.
• Cajun Seasoning – Brings the heat and boldness. Choose your favorite blend or make your own.
• Paprika – Adds warmth and color.
• Salt and Black Pepper – To enhance and balance all the flavors.
• Parsley – Freshly chopped for a pop of color and freshness to finish.

---

How To Make the Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet

Step 1: Sear the Steak

Season your steak generously with salt, pepper, and a bit of Cajun seasoning. In a hot skillet, sear both sides until a golden-brown crust forms and the inside is just tender. Remove from skillet and let it rest before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While your steak is resting, cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cajun Butter Sauce

In the same skillet used for the steak, lower the heat and add butter and minced garlic. Stir in Cajun seasoning and paprika, letting the spices bloom for about a minute. Pour in heavy cream and stir until smooth and bubbly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta directly into the sauce. Toss to coat thoroughly, letting the sauce thicken and cling to the noodles.

Step 5: Add the Steak

Slice the rested steak and lay it beautifully over the pasta. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a little extra paprika if you like some extra heat.

---

Serving and Storing This Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet

This dish is best served hot and fresh from the skillet when the creamy Cajun sauce is at its peak and the steak is still juicy. It feeds about 4 people generously, making it perfect for family dinners or when you’re hosting a casual dinner party.

To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to bring back that velvety texture. We don’t recommend freezing this dish as the cream sauce can separate.

---

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet?

H3: Garlic Bread

A classic side that’s perfect for scooping up any extra creamy sauce left on the plate.

H3: Green Salad with Vinaigrette

A crisp salad with a tangy dressing helps cut through the richness of the pasta.

H3: Grilled Asparagus

Smoky grilled asparagus adds a fresh, slightly bitter contrast that works beautifully with the Cajun flavors.

H3: Roasted Broccoli

Tossed in olive oil and baked until crispy, broccoli adds some crunch and a healthy touch.

H3: Corn on the Cob

Sweet, buttery corn brings a Southern vibe that pairs so well with Cajun spice.

H3: Sauteed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms boost the umami and complement the steak perfectly.

H3: Iced Tea or Lemonade

Cool, refreshing drinks to balance out the warmth and spice in the dish.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish less spicy?
Absolutely! You can reduce the Cajun seasoning and skip the extra paprika. If you’re sensitive to spice, try using a mild Cajun blend or make your own so you can control the heat.

Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, flank steak, flat iron, or even tenderloin will work. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and always slice against the grain for tenderness.

Is there a dairy-free option?
You can swap the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or a cashew-based sauce. Use vegan butter as a substitute for the regular one.

What kind of pasta works best?
Penne is great for holding sauce, but you can use rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine. Just pick something with texture to grab onto the creamy sauce.

Can I prep this ahead of time?
You can prep the steak and the sauce separately, then reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta right before serving. It’s great for planning ahead without sacrificing flavor.

---

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 crank up the Cajun spice or keep it mild? Did you try it with another protein?

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

Explore beautifully curated comfort meals and health-boosting dishes on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feel-good food!

---

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet is a bold and satisfying dish that’s perfect for when you’re craving something rich, spicy, and indulgent. With seared steak, creamy Cajun sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a complete meal in one skillet that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making it for a cozy night in or sharing it with friends, it hits the spot every time.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: