Let me tell you about the dish that’s been saving my weeknight dinners—creamy Cajun butter tender steak pasta skillet. It’s rich, it’s flavorful, and it comes together in just 25 minutes. I mean, who doesn’t love a one-pan wonder that tastes like it took hours? I’ve always been a sucker for Cajun flavors—that smoky, spicy kick just hits different.
And when you pair it with tender steak, silky pasta, and a buttery cream sauce? Wow. It’s like a hug for your taste buds. I first tried this combo after a trip to New Orleans, where I fell in love with Cajun cuisine. Now, it’s my go-to when I need something quick, indulgent, and totally satisfying. Trust me, this skillet is a game-changer.
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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet
Oh, where do I even start? This dish checks ALL the boxes:
- Fast & easy: Ready faster than takeout—just 25 minutes from fridge to plate!
- Bold flavors: That Cajun spice wakes up every taste bud while the creamy butter sauce mellows it out perfectly.
- One-pan magic: Minimal cleanup means more time enjoying your meal (and less time scrubbing pans).
- Restaurant-worthy: Feels fancy but uses simple ingredients you probably have already.
- Customizable: Love spice? Add more Cajun seasoning. Prefer milder? Dial it back—it’s YOUR kitchen!
Seriously, this skillet meal became my husband’s birthday request after the first time I made it. That’s how good it is.
Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet
- 1 lb sirloin steak, sliced thin
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment You’ll Need
Here’s the short list of tools to make this skillet magic happen:
- Large skillet (I use my trusty cast iron, but any will do)
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Sharp knife for slicing steak
- Wooden spoon or spatula
That’s it—simple, right? No fancy gadgets needed, just the basics to get this creamy Cajun goodness on the table fast.
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Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet in 25 Minutes
- Total Time: 25 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A rich and creamy pasta dish with tender steak, seasoned with Cajun spices and finished with butter.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak, sliced thin
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions, then drain and set aside.
- Season steak with Cajun spice, salt, and pepper.
- Melt 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook steak for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove from pan.
- Add remaining butter and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 30 seconds.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan until melted.
- Return steak to the skillet and add cooked pasta. Toss to coat.
- Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning based on spice preference.
- For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
How to Make Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet
Okay, let’s get cooking! This creamy Cajun butter steak pasta comes together in four simple steps. Follow along, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality meal in no time.
Cook the Pasta
First things first—get that pasta going! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (trust me, the salt makes all the difference). Add your fettuccine and cook until al dente, usually about 8-9 minutes. Drain it, but don’t rinse—we want that starch to help the sauce cling later!
Sear the Steak
While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tbsp butter in your skillet over medium-high heat. Toss your thinly sliced steak with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. When the butter’s sizzling, add the steak in a single layer—don’t crowd the pan! Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until beautifully browned. Remove the steak and set aside (it’ll finish cooking later).
Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Same skillet—keep all those tasty brown bits! Add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn!). Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until it melts into silky perfection. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon—that’s when you know it’s ready!
Combine and Serve
Time for the grand finale! Return the steak and any juices to the skillet, then add your cooked pasta. Toss everything together until every strand is coated in that luscious sauce. Finish with a shower of fresh parsley—the bright green makes it look as good as it tastes. Serve immediately while it’s piping hot and creamy!
If you’re a fan of creamy steak pasta combinations, you’ll also love our Garlic Butter Steak with Cheesy Linguine in Four Cheese Sauce — another luxurious yet simple recipe that takes comfort food to the next level.
Tips for the Best Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet
Want to make this dish absolutely perfect? Here are my foolproof tricks:
- Spice control: Cajun seasoning varies by brand—start with 1 tsp and taste as you go. My husband likes it fiery, so I often add an extra pinch!
- Cheese matters: Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoother than the pre-shredded stuff (which has anti-caking agents).
- Steak doneness: Since we’re slicing thin, aim for medium-rare when first cooking—it’ll finish in the sauce.
- Cream trick: If your sauce gets too thick, stir in a splash of pasta water to bring it back.
Little tweaks make all the difference between good and “oh-my-goodness” amazing.
Variations to Try
Oh, the possibilities! This creamy Cajun skillet is so versatile. Not a steak person? Swap in chicken breast or juicy shrimp—they soak up the spices beautifully. Vegetarian? Toss in mushrooms and bell peppers for extra texture. For a smoky twist, andouille sausage works magic here. And if you’re feeling fancy? A handful of spinach wilted into the sauce at the end adds color and nutrients. The beauty is—you make it your own!
Serving Suggestions
Now for my favorite part—what to serve with this creamy Cajun masterpiece! A crusty loaf of garlic bread is my go-to for soaking up every last drop of that luscious sauce. If you’re feeling fancy, a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. On busy nights? I just grab a baguette straight from the oven—no shame! This skillet pasta shines bright all on its own too. Honestly? I’ve been known to eat it straight from the pan while standing at the counter. No judgement here!
Storage and Reheating
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store this creamy Cajun pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to bring back that silky texture—microwave or stovetop both work. Pro tip: The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day!
For more delicious dinner inspiration, easy skillet meals, and creamy pasta ideas, follow us on Pinterest. We share new recipes and cooking hacks that bring restaurant-style flavor straight to your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
I get questions about this creamy Cajun butter steak pasta all the time! Here are the answers you’re craving:
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can, but it won’t be as lush. Heavy cream gives that signature silky texture. If you must substitute, try half-and-half—it’s my happy medium. Milk tends to make the sauce watery, so I’d avoid it unless absolutely necessary.
How spicy is Cajun seasoning?
It’s got a kick, but not mouth-on-fire hot! Most store-bought blends are medium spice level. Start with 1 tbsp, then taste and add more if you’re brave. My trick? Add a pinch of brown sugar if it gets too spicy—balances the heat beautifully.
What cut of steak works best?
Sirloin’s my go-to for tenderness and value, but flank or ribeye work great too. Just slice against the grain—this makes even cheaper cuts melt-in-your-mouth tender. Frozen steak? No problem! Thaw it first, then pat dry so it browns nicely.
Can I make this ahead?
The sauce thickens when chilled, so I recommend eating it fresh. BUT if you must prep ahead, cook everything separately and combine when reheating—just add extra cream to loosen it up. The flavors actually improve overnight!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers—because I know some of you are curious! Keep in mind these estimates vary based on your exact ingredients (especially if you tweak the cream or cheese amounts). Here’s the scoop per hearty serving:
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 35g (that steak really delivers!)
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 38g (hey, butter and cream are the stars here)
- Saturated Fat: 22g
Not gonna lie—this is definitely an indulgent dish. But sometimes your soul needs that creamy, buttery comfort! Balance is key—I like pairing mine with a big salad the next day.
Alright, friends—that’s my creamy Cajun butter tender steak pasta skillet in all its glorious, buttery detail! Now it’s your turn to work some magic in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a regular in your dinner rotation. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Did you add extra spice? Swap in shrimp? Maybe sneak in some veggies? Drop your twists and tips in the comments below—we’re all about sharing the food love here. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to lick the spoon when no one’s looking!