Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni

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This Cajun garlic butter linguine is the kind of comfort food that doesn’t ask for much, yet delivers on every front. Imagine tender beef strips seared to perfection, coated in a buttery Cajun-spiced garlic sauce, and nestled over silky linguine. It’s a fusion of Southern boldness and Italian heartiness in one steaming bowl.

Whether it’s a cozy night in or a quick way to impress guests, this dish nails that rich, slightly spicy, deeply savory profile that makes people ask for seconds. The garlic butter sauce wraps everything in warmth while the Cajun seasoning offers that just-right kick.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni

It’s the ultimate one-pan indulgence with both elegance and ease. You get protein-packed beef, aromatic herbs, and buttery pasta in every forkful. The Cajun spice blend adds a lively heat that balances beautifully with the smooth richness of garlic butter.

This dish is a weeknight winner that still feels special. Plus, it’s versatile enough to work with whatever pasta shape you have on hand, but there’s something particularly luxurious about long strands of linguine or the robust texture of rigatoni.

What Cut of Beef Should I Use for Cajun Garlic Butter Pasta?

Opt for sirloin or ribeye for quick searing and juicy tenderness. You want beef that stays flavorful and soft even after it’s browned and simmered in sauce. Slice it against the grain for maximum tenderness, and avoid anything too lean or tough like stew meat. Thinly sliced strips cook fast and soak up all that buttery Cajun flavor, making them the perfect addition to this pasta.

Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni

The magic of this dish lies in its balance of boldness and creaminess. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor that cling perfectly to pasta and beef alike.

• Linguine or rigatoni
• Beef sirloin or ribeye
• Garlic cloves
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Cajun seasoning
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Fresh parsley
• Red pepper flakes (optional)

How To Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni

Step 1: Prep the Pasta

Cook the linguine or rigatoni according to package directions in generously salted water. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Slice the beef into thin strips, season with salt, pepper, and a bit of Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sear the beef over medium-high heat until browned and just cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter and minced garlic. Stir constantly until fragrant and golden, about 1 minute.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Sprinkle in the remaining Cajun seasoning, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan until melted and creamy. Add reserved pasta water little by little to reach your desired sauce consistency.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Add cooked pasta and seared beef to the sauce. Toss until everything is coated and heated through. Finish with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 6: Serve

Plate the pasta hot and serve with extra Parmesan and parsley on top. It’s best enjoyed immediately while the sauce is silky and the beef still tender.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Don’t overcook the beef. It should be browned quickly over high heat so it stays juicy. If you cook it too long, it will become tough and chewy. Be sure not to burn the garlic either—once it turns golden, you’re ready to move on.

When making the sauce, don’t add the cheese all at once or over high heat. It should melt gradually into the cream to avoid clumps. Also, be cautious with salt since Cajun seasoning and Parmesan already bring in quite a bit.

Finally, don’t skip the pasta water. That starchy liquid is your secret weapon for a silky sauce that clings to every bite.

How to Serve and Store This Pasta Dish

This recipe serves 4 hearty portions and is best served hot, straight from the skillet to the plate. Pair it with a crisp side salad or a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the beef.

What to Serve With Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery garlic bread is the perfect partner for sopping up any extra sauce.

Caesar Salad

The tangy, creamy dressing of a Caesar salad cuts through the richness of the pasta.

Sautéed Green Beans

Lightly sautéed with olive oil and lemon, green beans bring a fresh crunch to the meal.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

The caramelized edges of Brussels sprouts add depth and a little bitterness to contrast the buttery sauce.

Creamed Spinach

Rich and velvety, it pairs well with the Cajun kick of the pasta.

Balsamic Roasted Mushrooms

Earthy and tangy, mushrooms round out the umami flavors.

Cornbread Muffins

Southern-style cornbread adds a touch of sweetness and a crumbly texture.

Tomato Basil Soup

A light, fragrant soup as a starter makes a comforting introduction to this bold dish.

Want More Pasta Ideas with Bold Flavor?

If this Cajun garlic butter linguine with tender beef strips left you craving more saucy, comforting dishes, here are a few favorites you won’t want to miss:

• Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta for a rich, sun-dried tomato and spinach twist.
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta with a velvety sauce that lives up to its name.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini that’s pure comfort with a garlicky Parmesan kick.
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a streamlined version packed with flavor.
• Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach if you’re in the mood for a surf-and-turf pasta night.

Save This Recipe 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 go all-in with the spice or dial it back? Did you swap linguine for rigatoni or try something entirely new?

I love hearing your creative twists on my recipes. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other make dinner exciting again.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Cajun garlic butter linguine with tender beef strips rigatoni is one of those recipes that turns a weeknight dinner into something unforgettable. It blends Southern spice, creamy richness, and hearty pasta for a plate that comforts and excites in equal measure. Whether you’re sharing with family or treating yourself, it delivers every time.

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