Rich, cheesy, and full of bold Cajun flavor, this Cheesy Cajun Steak Linguine is the kind of dinner that brings serious comfort to the table. It all began with a craving for something hearty, steak and pasta, but not the usual Alfredo. I wanted more flavor, more heat, and a sauce that really clings to the noodles. So I grabbed what I had and started experimenting.
Now it’s one of our go-to comfort meals. The steak is seasoned with smoky Cajun spices and seared until golden, then tossed with linguine and smothered in a creamy blend of cream cheese, mozzarella, and provolone. It’s rich without being too heavy and has just the right kick to keep things exciting.
This is the kind of recipe that works for anything: a chill weeknight dinner, an easy but impressive meal for guests, or just something warm and satisfying to wind down with. One bite and you’ll get why it’s made its way into our regular dinner rotation.
Essential Elements
What makes this Cheesy Cajun Steak Linguine unforgettable is the way it layers bold flavor with simple, satisfying textures. At the core, it’s all about balance:
- Cajun-spiced steak: Pan-seared for a golden crust and tender center, seasoned with just the right mix of Cajun spice and paprika.
- Velvety cheese sauce: A rich blend of heavy cream, cream cheese, shredded mozzarella, and provolone that melts down smooth and clings to every noodle.
- Perfect pasta: Linguine brings the ideal bite and soaks up the sauce without going soft or mushy.
It’s comforting and creamy, but with a spicy edge that keeps it interesting, and it all comes together easily in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for when you want something that feels fancy but doesn’t take all night to make. It’s ready in about 30 minutes, yet delivers that cozy, restaurant-quality flavor that makes people think you worked a lot harder than you did.
Here’s what makes it so lovable:
- Quick but indulgent: You get the richness of a steakhouse-style pasta dish without spending hours over the stove.
- Flexible flavor: Like it spicier? Add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Want it extra cheesy? Toss in some Parmesan at the end.
- Creamy without being heavy: The combo of cream cheese and heavy cream gives you that silky texture without weighing everything down.
- Great for leftovers: The sauce stays creamy when reheated, making it ideal for meal prep or next-day lunches.
- A crowd-pleaser: It works for busy weeknights, dinner parties, or just treating yourself to a little comfort at the end of a long day.
Bottom line? It’s hearty, flavorful, and seriously satisfying, and once you make it, you’ll be adding it to your regular dinner lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This cheesy Cajun steak linguine comes together with simple, flavorful ingredients you probably already have on hand.
For the Steak & Pasta:
- 1 lb linguine pasta
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- Fresh chopped green onions
How to Make It
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water to help loosen the sauce later if needed. Set pasta aside.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the steak cubes with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Sear for 3–4 minutes, turning to brown all sides. Work in batches if necessary. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion & Garlic
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Let it cook for a few minutes over medium-low heat until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Add the cooked pasta and seared steak to the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Sprinkle in the mozzarella and provolone, then dot the top with butter. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 3–5 minutes so the cheese melts into gooey perfection.
Step 6: Serve
Top with fresh green onions and serve hot. This one’s best enjoyed fresh and cheesy, but it reheats beautifully, too.
Variations
This recipe is easy to tweak depending on your dietary needs or taste preferences. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:
- Spicier Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a full teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. You can also use a hot Cajun blend instead of a mild one.
- Gluten-Free Swap: Use your favorite gluten-free linguine or even a spiralized veggie noodle like zucchini if you’re cutting back on carbs. Just remember to slightly reduce the sauce so it doesn’t feel too loose.
- Low-Dairy Option: Swap the cream cheese and mozzarella with dairy-free alternatives (there are some great plant-based cheeses on the market). Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a surprisingly creamy texture.
- Add Veggies: Toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for a boost of color and nutrients. These ingredients won’t overpower the steak and will soak up that incredible sauce.
- Change the Protein: Don’t have steak on hand? Try sliced grilled chicken, shrimp, or even Italian sausage for a different twist. This sauce is friendly with just about any protein.
How to Serve
This Cheesy Cajun Steak Linguine is a showstopper all on its own, but with the right sides and a few simple touches, you can turn it into a full meal that feels extra special.
- Pair it with a fresh side salad: A mix of arugula, baby spinach, or spring greens tossed in a light lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheese and steak.
- Add warm bread on the side: Garlic knots, crusty baguette, or even toasted sourdough are perfect for mopping up the extra sauce.
- Choose a refreshing drink: Iced tea, cucumber water, or sparkling water with lime keeps things light.
- Serve in shallow bowls: This helps the pasta cool slightly, lets the sauce cling beautifully, and gives a restaurant-style presentation.
- Garnish just before serving: Fresh green onions add a pop of color and brightness. A little extra Parmesan on the table is always a good idea.
This dish is all about cozy comfort, but with a little attention to the sides and presentation, it can easily become the highlight of your dinner table.
Recipe Tips
A few simple tricks can elevate this recipe and help everything come together smoothly, creamy, and full of flavor:
- Use room temperature cream cheese: Softened cream cheese melts easily and blends smoothly into the sauce without clumps.
- Don’t crowd the skillet: Sear steak in batches if needed. You want a golden crust, not steamed meat.
- Save some pasta water: That starchy liquid is gold for loosening up the sauce and helping it cling perfectly to the pasta.
- Taste before you serve: Cajun seasoning can vary in spice and salt. Adjust seasoning as needed before tossing everything together.
- Choose a good pan: A cast-iron or heavy-bottomed skillet holds heat well and gives the steak a great sear.
- Spice it up if you like: Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce over each bowl for an extra kick.
These small tips make a big difference in texture and flavor, and ensure your pasta turns out perfect every time.
Cooking Note
- For extra tender steak, cut it against the grain before cooking.
- If your steak releases a lot of moisture, pat it dry with paper towels before searing.
- The sauce thickens as it cools. Add a splash of milk or pasta water when reheating.
- Make sure to use low heat when adding cheese to avoid breaking the sauce.
- This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 750 per serving
- Protein: 38g
- Sodium: 620mg
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep this in advance. Make the sauce and cook the steak a day ahead, then store them separately. Cook the pasta fresh when ready to serve and warm everything together in a skillet, adding a splash of pasta water or milk to loosen the sauce.
2. What type of steak works best for this recipe?
Sirloin is great because it’s lean but still flavorful. Ribeye is more tender and rich if you’re looking to impress. You can also use NY strip or filet, but always aim for a quick-searing cut. Avoid stew meat or tougher cuts unless you plan to braise them longer.
3. How do I make this recipe less spicy?
Simply cut back on the Cajun seasoning or use a mild version. You can skip the red pepper flakes entirely and let anyone who wants extra spice add hot sauce at the table.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Cajun Steak Linguine with Creamy Garlic Sauce is one of those recipes that hits every note, comforting, flavorful, creamy, and just the right amount of bold. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat but doesn’t require a huge production in the kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family, planning a cozy dinner date, or just treating yourself on a Tuesday night, this dish fits beautifully into your rotation.
I love how easy it is to customize. You can make it milder or spicier, swap out the protein, or toss in a few veggies to lighten it up. No matter how you tweak it, the base of garlic, creamy sauce, and perfectly seared steak gives you something delicious to look forward to.
What makes it even better is that it reheats well. I always double the batch so we have leftovers the next day, it’s that good. It’s a comfort food dream come true, but with a grown-up, restaurant-style twist. Don’t be surprised if this becomes one of your go-to pasta dishes. It’s definitely earned a permanent spot in my recipe box.
Give it a try and let me know what you think, whether it’s your new date-night dish or just something you whip up when you need a little comfort on a plate.
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Cheesy Cajun Steak Linguine with Creamy Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Steak & Pasta:
- 1 lb linguine pasta
- 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded provolone cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- Fresh chopped green onions
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water to help loosen the sauce later if needed. Set pasta aside.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the steak cubes with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Sear for 3–4 minutes, turning to brown all sides. Work in batches if necessary. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion & Garlic
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer, then stir in the heavy cream and cream cheese. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Let it cook for a few minutes over medium-low heat until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Add the cooked pasta and seared steak to the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Sprinkle in the mozzarella and provolone, then dot the top with butter. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 3–5 minutes so the cheese melts into gooey perfection.
Step 6: Serve
Top with fresh green onions and serve hot. This one’s best enjoyed fresh and cheesy, but it reheats beautifully, too.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 750
- Sodium: 620
- Protein: 38