Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

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Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food mash-up you didn’t know you needed. Imagine tender, juicy Cajun-seasoned steak bites paired with creamy rotini pasta, drenched in a velvety garlic parmesan sauce that clings to every swirl. It’s rich, spicy, and cheesy in all the right ways—perfect for when you’re craving something hearty and indulgent.

What makes this dish a weeknight hero is that it brings together bold flavor with effortless elegance. The Cajun spice gives the steak a smoky heat that contrasts beautifully with the buttery garlic and nutty parmesan in the sauce. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just treating yourself, this pasta delivers comfort with a kick.

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What Cut of Steak Works Best for Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta?

When making this recipe, opt for a tender, quick-cooking cut. Sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip are excellent choices. They sear beautifully and stay juicy in every bite. You want that melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs perfectly with the creaminess of the pasta.

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Ingredients for the Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

• Steak: Use sirloin or ribeye for tenderness and flavor. The Cajun rub adds the right spice.
• Rotini Pasta: Its spirals hold onto the creamy garlic sauce like a dream.
• Cajun Seasoning: Smoky, spicy, and essential for that Southern kick.
• Butter: Helps sear the steak and builds a rich flavor base for the sauce.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with irresistible aroma.
• Heavy Cream: The base of your garlic parmesan sauce—ultra creamy and decadent.
• Parmesan Cheese: Nutty, salty, and melty. It’s the flavor star of the sauce.
• Parsley (optional): Adds freshness and color to balance the richness.

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How To Make the Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Prep and Season the Steak

Pat the steak dry with paper towels and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, ensuring each piece is well coated. Let it sit while you prep the other ingredients—this allows the spices to penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the rotini according to package instructions. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

Step 3: Sear the Cajun Steak Bites

In a hot skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak bites in a single layer, searing each side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness (about 3–5 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt a little more butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Pasta

Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. Add the cooked rotini to the sauce, tossing gently to coat.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Return the seared steak bites to the skillet and gently toss to combine everything. Let it sit on low heat for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld together. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

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Serving and Storing Your Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta

Serve this dish hot and creamy straight from the skillet for the best flavor experience. A side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad rounds out the meal beautifully. The spice from the Cajun steak and richness of the parmesan sauce are a perfect balance, making it ideal for cozy dinners or casual gatherings.

For leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s silky texture. This dish is not ideal for freezing, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of Cajun seasoning should I use?

You can use store-bought Cajun seasoning or make your own blend using paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and black pepper.

Can I substitute a different cut of meat?

Absolutely. Flank steak or even boneless short ribs (cut small) work too. Just be sure to adjust cook time for tenderness.

Is there a dairy-free alternative to the garlic parmesan sauce?

Yes. Swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk and use nutritional yeast in place of parmesan. The flavor will change, but it will still be delicious.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Definitely! Add more cayenne or red pepper flakes to your Cajun seasoning. A few dashes of hot sauce in the cream sauce also work wonders.

What other pasta shapes work besides rotini?

Fusilli, penne, or farfalle are all great alternatives. Choose shapes that hold creamy sauces well.

How do I keep the steak tender?

Avoid overcooking. Sear the steak quickly over high heat and let it rest before combining with the pasta to lock in juices.

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Want More Pasta Recipes with Bold Flavor?

If you’re loving this Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta, you’re in for a treat with these other mouthwatering meals from my kitchen:

• Try the Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a cheesy, buttery experience with a milder twist.
• Dig into Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli when you’re craving loaded comfort in one bite.
• Craving shrimp instead? Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta brings the heat and richness just like this recipe.
• One skillet and done! One Skillet Cheesy Spicy Garlic Butter Steak Pasta is another favorite if you want to mix things up.
• And for the ultimate cheesy twist, don’t miss the Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Velveeta Beef Sauce that’s perfect for family dinners.

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I’d love to hear how your Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta turned out. Did you go heavy on the spice? Maybe tossed in some mushrooms or spinach? Drop a comment and let’s swap tips!

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