Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet

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Golden-seared steak strips nestled over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta coated in a rich, creamy Cajun butter sauce – this dish is comfort food with a spicy Southern soul. Every forkful delivers a burst of smokiness from Cajun spices, a velvety smoothness from the sauce, and the juicy tenderness of steak cooked just right. It’s the kind of dinner that makes you want to linger at the table for just one more bite.

Perfect for weeknights when you crave something indulgent but easy, this skillet recipe brings restaurant-level flavor straight to your kitchen. In under an hour, you’ll have a dish that looks like it came from a chef’s menu but feels as cozy as a homemade classic.

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

• Bold Cajun Flavor: A beautiful balance of smoky, garlicky heat without overpowering the creamy base.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pan.
• Luxurious Yet Simple: Steakhouse vibes in a recipe that’s easy enough for busy weeknights.
• Customizable Heat: Dial the Cajun spice up or down to suit your taste.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To nail this recipe, you’ll need a few key tools:

• Large Heavy Skillet (Cast Iron Preferred): Ensures the steak gets that gorgeous sear and even heat for the sauce.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping steak without piercing it, keeping those juices locked in.
• Large Pot for Pasta: Boil your pasta separately until just al dente before adding to the skillet.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the creamy sauce without scratching your pan.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife: To slice the steak into tender, even strips.

The right tools mean better texture, richer flavor, and less stress during cooking.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet

• Steak Strips: Juicy, tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye bring rich beefy flavor.
• Penne Pasta: Holds the creamy sauce beautifully in every bite.
• Cajun Seasoning: Adds the smoky-spicy flavor base.
• Butter: Creates richness and silkiness in the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: The heart of the creamy sauce.
• Garlic: Adds depth and aromatic warmth.
• Parmesan Cheese: Brings salty, nutty balance to the sauce.
• Olive Oil: Helps sear steak to perfection.
• Fresh Parsley: For color and freshness.

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How To Make the Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet

Step 1: Season and Sear the Steak

Pat steak dry, season generously with Cajun seasoning, then sear in a hot skillet with olive oil until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a separate pot, boil pasta until al dente. Drain and reserve a bit of pasta water.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add Cajun seasoning, stirring to bloom the spices.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Pour in heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Thin with pasta water if needed.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add pasta to the skillet, toss to coat, then top with sliced steak. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

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Serving and Storing Your Pasta

Serve this pasta straight from the skillet for a rustic, inviting presentation. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread and a fresh green salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream to keep it luscious.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken instead of steak?

Absolutely! Chicken breast or thighs work well, but adjust cooking times to avoid overcooking.

How spicy is Cajun seasoning?

It varies by brand. Start with less, taste, and adjust to your heat preference.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and steak ahead, then combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

What other pasta shapes work?

Fettuccine, rigatoni, or bowties all hold the sauce well.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Cream-based sauces can separate when frozen, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

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Want More Pasta Skillet Ideas?

If you love this steak pasta, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• Garlic Butter Beef Cheesy Bowtie Pasta
• Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet
• Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta
• Garlic Butter Steak Tips with Cheesy Rigatoni
• Sticky Honey Garlic Steak Rotini

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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 swap the steak for shrimp? Did you add extra Cajun heat? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too – let’s help each other cook smarter.

Find more of my daily recipes on Pinterest: Kitchen By Kate

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