I love meals that feel like a treat but don’t take hours to make. This Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni hits that sweet spot perfectly. It’s packed with bold Cajun spices, juicy steak seared to perfection, and rigatoni pasta swimming in a rich, garlicky cheese sauce that’s just downright addictive.
The best part? You can have this dinner ready in about 30 minutes, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or whenever you want to impress without stressing. The Cajun seasoning adds just the right kick, and the garlic butter finishes the steak with flavor that’s impossible to resist. Meanwhile, the creamy rigatoni soaks up all that cheesy goodness, making every bite feel like a little celebration.
Whether you’re cooking for family or just craving a comforting meal after a long day, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s satisfying, flavorful, and simple enough to make any night feel special.
Essential Elements and Equipment
While this recipe is straightforward, having the right tools makes the whole process smoother and more enjoyable:
- Cast-Iron Skillet: This is key for searing the steaks to get that perfect crust and flavorful garlic butter finish. If you don’t have cast iron, a heavy stainless steel skillet will work too.
- Large Pot for Pasta: Rigatoni needs plenty of space to cook evenly, so use a pot big enough to give the pasta room to dance.
- Saucepan or Dutch Oven: For making the creamy sauce. A heavy-bottomed pan helps prevent scorching as you simmer the cheese and cream.
- Tongs: Essential for flipping the steak and tossing the pasta with the sauce.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: For slicing the rested steak thinly and cleanly.
- Whisk: To keep your sauce smooth and creamy as you add cheeses and seasoning.
With these basics, you’ll feel confident tackling this recipe even if you’re new to cooking steak or creamy sauces.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is truly a winner on many levels, and here’s why it has become a go-to recipe for so many home cooks:
- Bold and Balanced Flavors: The Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, spicy layer that elevates the steak without overpowering it. The garlic butter basted over the steak adds richness and depth.
- Creamy, Cheesy Sauce: The rigatoni is coated in a luscious sauce combining Parmesan, mozzarella, and heavy cream, which is comforting and indulgent.
- Perfectly Textured Steak: Searing the steak in a hot cast-iron skillet locks in juices and creates a delicious crust, while resting ensures the meat stays tender.
- Quick to Make: This whole meal comes together in just about 30 minutes, ideal for weeknights when time is short but you still want something special.
- Picky-Eater Friendly: The creamy pasta and flavorful steak are crowd-pleasers that appeal to kids and adults alike.
- Flexible and Customizable: You can adjust the spice level, swap rigatoni for your favorite pasta, or add vegetables to the sauce to suit your preferences.
This recipe balances comfort and excitement, making it both familiar and impressive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the full list of ingredients to make this dish shine:
For the Steak:
- 2 (8-ounce) sirloin steaks, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Rigatoni:
- 1 pound rigatoni pasta
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Season the Steak
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to help get a good sear. In a small bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning all over both sides of the steaks, making sure they’re evenly coated. Let them rest while you heat your pan.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully add the steaks and cook undisturbed for about 3 to 4 minutes, so they develop a nice crust. Flip and cook another 3 to 4 minutes for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer your steak more done.
Step 3: Add Garlic Butter and Baste
In the last minute of cooking, add 2 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, and smoked paprika to the skillet. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted garlic butter over the steaks continuously to infuse them with flavor.
Step 4: Rest the Steak
Remove the steaks from the skillet and place on a plate. Tent loosely with foil and let rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the steak juicy and tender.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While the steak rests, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Step 6: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Lower the heat to low. Stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes thick and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 8: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss gently to coat every piece with cheesy goodness.
Easy Variations to Try
Want to put your own spin on this dish? Here are some tasty ideas to mix things up:
- Different cuts of steak: Try ribeye, New York strip, or even flank steak if you want a leaner or fattier cut. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Add vegetables: Toss in some sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for a pop of color and extra nutrients.
- Extra heat: If you love spice, add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper to both the steak rub and the sauce.
- Cheese options: Swap mozzarella for fontina or provolone for a slightly different cheesy flavor.
- Pasta swaps: Penne, fusilli, or farfalle work great if you don’t have rigatoni on hand.
- Lighter version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the butter slightly to lighten the sauce.
This recipe is versatile enough to let you play with your favorite flavors.
How to Serve
- Fresh herb garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over the finished dish. This simple step adds a burst of color and a subtle fresh flavor that elevates the entire meal.
- Fresh green salad: Toss mixed greens or arugula with a simple lemon vinaigrette or olive oil and vinegar. The bright acidity balances the rich, creamy pasta and steak, making each bite feel lighter and more refreshing.
- Garlic bread or warm rolls: Serve crunchy garlic bread or soft dinner rolls on the side. They’re perfect for mopping up every last bit of the cheesy sauce, adding a comforting, hearty touch to your meal.
- Roasted or steamed vegetables: Add color and texture with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or steamed green beans. These veggies offer a fresh crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta and tender steak.
Recipe Tips
- Steak Prep: Pat steaks dry before seasoning to help develop a perfect crust.
- Resting Steak: Always let steak rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender.
- Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella for a smooth, creamy sauce. Pre-shredded cheese can contain additives that affect texture.
- Pasta Water: Save some pasta cooking water; it’s great for loosening the sauce if it gets too thick.
- Leftovers: Store leftover pasta and steak separately to maintain texture, and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth.
- Make Ahead: You can cook the steak ahead and reheat it while preparing the sauce and pasta for quick assembly.
Cooking Note
- Keep the heat medium to medium-low when making the sauce to prevent burning or curdling.
- Stir the sauce constantly as you add cheeses to ensure a smooth melt and avoid lumps.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing steaks; this helps achieve a better sear.
- Use a sharp knife to slice steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Adjust seasoning gradually, tasting as you go, since cheeses can add saltiness.
Nutritional Information (approximate per serving)
- Calories: 950
- Protein: 55g
- Sodium: 850mg
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
FAQs
1. How do I know when my steak is perfectly cooked?
Using a meat thermometer is the most reliable method. For medium-rare, aim for 135°F internal temperature. Otherwise, cook 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness and preference. Let the steak rest to finish cooking and retain juices.
2. Can I substitute the rigatoni with another pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or farfalle are excellent alternatives. Just make sure to cook according to package instructions and toss gently with the sauce to prevent breaking.
3. What’s the best way to store and reheat leftovers?
Store steak and pasta separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwave reheating if possible, as it can dry out the steak and separate the sauce.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni is the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary night into something special. With juicy, flavorful steak paired with perfectly coated rigatoni in a rich, garlicky cheese sauce, it strikes the perfect balance of bold and comforting flavors. The best part? It’s quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough to serve guests.
Whether you’re craving hearty comfort food, looking for an easy dinner that feels indulgent, or simply want to mix up your pasta nights, this recipe delivers. It’s full of layers of flavor and creamy goodness, with enough flexibility to customize to your taste.
Give it a try and I promise it’ll quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation, one that everyone at the table will be asking for again and again. way to bring bold flavors and creamy indulgence together on a busy night. Whether you’re feeding family or impressing friends, it delivers every time.
So go ahead, grab your skillet and pasta pot, and whip up this delicious dish. Trust me, it’s going to be your new favorite go-to for steak and pasta nights.
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Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Steak:
- 2 (8-ounce) sirloin steaks, about 1-inch thick
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Rigatoni:
- 1 pound rigatoni pasta
- 6 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Steak
Pat the steaks dry with paper towels to help get a good sear. In a small bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning all over both sides of the steaks, making sure they’re evenly coated. Let them rest while you heat your pan.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering. Carefully add the steaks and cook undisturbed for about 3 to 4 minutes, so they develop a nice crust. Flip and cook another 3 to 4 minutes for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer your steak more done.
Step 3: Add Garlic Butter and Baste
In the last minute of cooking, add 2 tablespoons of butter, minced garlic, and smoked paprika to the skillet. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted garlic butter over the steaks continuously to infuse them with flavor.
Step 4: Rest the Steak
Remove the steaks from the skillet and place on a plate. Tent loosely with foil and let rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the steak juicy and tender.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
While the steak rests, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rigatoni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Step 6: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Seasonings
Lower the heat to low. Stir in Parmesan, mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes thick and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 8: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss gently to coat every piece with cheesy goodness.
Nutrition
- Calories: 950
- Sodium: 850
- Protein: 55