Sink your fork into a steamy plate of Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips, where bold Southern spice meets rich, comforting pasta. This dish brings together the smoky heat of Cajun seasoning, a luscious garlic butter cream sauce, and tender seared beef strips, perfectly paired with al dente spaghetti. It’s a dinner that tastes like a weekend indulgence but is easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight.

Each bite is packed with flavor, thanks to a generous coating of buttery sauce that clings to every strand of pasta and juicy slice of beef. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress with its vibrant color, decadent aroma, and unforgettable flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips

Bold Flavors: The Cajun seasoning delivers just the right kick, balanced with a rich garlic butter base and creamy finish.
Hearty & Satisfying: Tender beef strips provide plenty of protein, turning this into a complete meal.
Quick & Easy: Despite its gourmet look and taste, this dish comes together in under 40 minutes.
Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or pasta shape.
Perfect for Entertaining: It’s as impressive in presentation as it is in flavor.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To ensure smooth cooking and perfect texture, having the right tools makes all the difference:

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Pan: Ideal for getting that perfect sear on your beef strips and building flavor.
Large Pot: For boiling the spaghetti without crowding.
Tongs or Spaghetti Spoon: Helps lift and mix pasta gently without breaking it.
Chef’s Knife: For slicing the beef evenly and prepping any garnish.
Whisk: Essential for emulsifying the creamy Cajun garlic butter sauce into a velvety consistency.

A good prep station and mise en place will speed things up and make your cooking experience feel seamless. Make sure your beef is at room temperature before searing—it ensures even cooking and a juicy texture.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips

Spaghetti: The pasta base that holds all the rich sauce and spices.
Beef Strips (Sirloin or Ribeye): Tender, juicy, and sears beautifully to add a meaty bite.
Garlic: The foundation of the butter sauce that infuses deep flavor.
Butter: Adds richness and silkiness to the sauce.
Heavy Cream: Balances the Cajun spice with creamy texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty depth and a cheesy finish.
Cajun Seasoning: Brings the smoky, spicy Southern flavor.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential to highlight and balance all the other ingredients.
Fresh Parsley: For a pop of freshness and color.
Olive Oil: Helps sear the beef while adding flavor.

How To Make the Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips

Step 1: Sear the Beef Strips

Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef strips with salt, pepper, and a bit of Cajun seasoning. Sear the strips in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet used for the beef, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Pour in heavy cream and whisk until smooth. Stir in Cajun seasoning and parmesan cheese. Add some reserved pasta water to adjust consistency if needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Toss in the cooked spaghetti and coat it thoroughly in the sauce. Return the beef strips to the pan and let everything simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan if desired. Serve hot.

Serving and Storing Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips

This dish is best served immediately, with the beef still tender and the sauce coating every noodle. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.

Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy content in the sauce, which can separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of beef is best for this recipe?

Sirloin, ribeye, or even flank steak works beautifully. Choose a cut that remains tender when quickly seared.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Absolutely! Use a mild Cajun seasoning or cut the quantity in half and balance with more cream.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Fettuccine, linguine, or even penne can hold up well to the sauce.

What vegetables pair well with this dish?

Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach make great additions and enhance the flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and checking the Cajun seasoning label for gluten.

Can I make it dairy-free?

While it won’t be as creamy, you can use coconut cream and a dairy-free butter alternative.

Want More Pasta Ideas with Bold Flavors?

If you loved this Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips, you’ll definitely want to try these dishes next:

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