Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Imagine sinking your fork into a tender, juicy steak seared to perfection, its surface glistening with rich garlic butter infused with the bold, smoky kick of Cajun spices. Now picture that savory bite paired with a bed of creamy rigatoni pasta, each tube coated in a luscious cheese sauce that wraps around the Cajun heat like a warm embrace. This dish isn’t just dinner – it’s a full-on comfort experience that combines hearty steakhouse indulgence with cozy Italian pasta bliss.

This recipe is perfect for when you want something truly satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The Cajun seasoning gives the steak an irresistible crust, while the garlic butter and creamy pasta create a luxurious balance of flavors. Whether you’re making it for a special date night, a family gathering, or just a self-care dinner after a long day, it will feel like a restaurant-quality meal made right at home.

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

You get the best of both worlds: bold Cajun flavors and creamy, cheesy pasta all on one plate. The steak is rich, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, while the rigatoni brings a velvety, indulgent texture. It’s an elevated yet approachable meal that can impress guests but is still simple enough for a weeknight treat.

What Cut of Steak Works Best for This Recipe?

While you can use a variety of cuts, ribeye and sirloin are both excellent choices for their tenderness and flavor. Ribeye offers more marbling for a buttery bite, while sirloin is leaner but still juicy when cooked right. Whatever cut you choose, be sure it’s at least one inch thick so you can achieve that perfect sear without overcooking the inside.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

The ingredients here are simple yet purposeful, each one playing a role in creating a dish that’s both flavorful and comforting. The Cajun seasoning brings a smoky spice, the garlic butter adds richness, and the rigatoni is perfect for catching every bit of creamy sauce.

• Ribeye or sirloin steak – The star protein, providing tenderness and deep flavor.
• Cajun seasoning – Delivers that signature smoky-spicy kick.
• Butter – For a rich, silky garlic butter base.
• Garlic cloves – Infuses the butter and steak with aromatic depth.
• Rigatoni pasta – Holds the creamy sauce beautifully in its ridges.
• Heavy cream – Forms the luscious base for the cheese sauce.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds sharp, nutty notes to the sauce.
• Mozzarella cheese – Melts into the sauce for a gooey, creamy texture.
• Olive oil – Helps sear the steak to perfection.
• Salt and black pepper – To enhance and balance all the flavors.

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

Step 1: Season and Sear the Steak

Pat your steak dry, then generously coat it with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear each side until a deep crust forms, about 3–4 minutes per side for medium-rare. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour the garlic butter over the resting steak to soak in the flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the steak rests, boil rigatoni in salted water until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

In the pasta pot or a separate pan, pour in heavy cream and warm over medium heat. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Add a splash of pasta water to loosen if needed.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Slice the steak against the grain. Toss the rigatoni with the creamy sauce, plate it, and top with the Cajun garlic butter steak slices. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter over the top for extra indulgence.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

This hearty recipe serves about 4 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering of friends. Serve it hot straight from the pan for the ultimate creamy-meets-savory experience. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life without drying out the steak.

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

Garlic Bread

Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A light salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta and steak.

Roasted Vegetables

Try roasted asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra color and nutrients.

Sauteed Spinach

Quickly wilted with garlic and olive oil for a fresh, earthy side.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

If you want to go full comfort mode, add a scoop of buttery mashed potatoes alongside.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet corn with a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning makes a great pairing.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with a drizzle of balsamic for a refreshing bite.

Steamed Broccoli

A simple, no-fuss side that adds vibrant green to the plate.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If this Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni has you hooked, here are more hearty pasta dinners you’ll love:

• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for a savory, meaty twist.
• Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta if you’re craving something with a similar spicy kick but faster to make.
• Rattlesnake Pasta for creamy heat with a peppery edge.
• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli when you want a rich, earthy pasta night.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta for a cozy, family-style dinner.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it anytime. I’d love to hear how yours turns out – did you go all out with the Cajun spice or keep it mild? Did you try swapping in a different cut of steak?

I always enjoy hearing how you put your own twist on these recipes. Let’s share ideas and help each other cook even better meals.

Explore even more delicious dinner ideas and comfort food inspiration on Luna Meals on Pinterest, where I share recipes daily.

Conclusion

Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni is proof that a home-cooked dinner can be both luxurious and simple. With tender steak, creamy pasta, and bold spices, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Perfect for impressing guests or just treating yourself to a well-deserved feast, it’s comfort food at its finest.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?