Julia Walton
There’s a certain comfort that only a rich, creamy pasta dish can bring — and this Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni does just that, but with a bold twist. Imagine a luscious garlic butter sauce with a Cajun kick, clinging to al dente rigatoni, and crowned with perfectly seared beef strips. It’s the kind of weeknight indulgence that turns dinner into a little celebration.
This recipe combines the smoky warmth of Cajun seasoning with the richness of garlic butter and heavy cream, resulting in a dish that’s savory, spicy, and comforting all at once. It’s hearty enough for a family dinner but impressive enough to serve guests. And thanks to the seared beef, every bite is loaded with flavor and protein.
What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?
While this dish includes “linguine” in the title, rigatoni is the real star of the show here. Its ridges and tube-like shape catch all the creamy Cajun garlic butter sauce, making every bite irresistibly flavorful. But feel free to use any sturdy pasta if needed — penne, fettuccine, or even pappardelle work beautifully, just avoid delicate shapes that can’t hold the sauce well.
Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni
- Beef Strips: Choose well-marbled sirloin or ribeye for juicy, tender bites that sear beautifully.
- Rigatoni Pasta: Rigatoni holds the thick, creamy sauce perfectly in every ridge and tube.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is essential for that deep, savory base in the butter sauce.
- Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning and enriches the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious body and creaminess to balance the spice.
- Cajun Seasoning: Brings the smoky heat and depth — adjust to taste for mild or fiery versions.
- Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the sauce for a salty, umami-packed finish.
- Paprika & Parsley (for garnish): A pop of color and final flavor lift to the dish.
How To Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni
Step 1: Sear the Beef Strips
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of oil. Season your beef strips with salt, pepper, and a touch of Cajun spice. Sear each side until caramelized and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Boil the Rigatoni
In a large pot of salted water, cook the rigatoni until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Base
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning for that smoky kick.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, whisking to combine with the butter and garlic. Let it simmer until thickened slightly. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if it becomes too thick.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Toss the cooked rigatoni into the sauce, coating every piece. Stir in parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the seared beef strips back into the pan and garnish with parsley and a sprinkle of paprika.
Serving and Storing Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni
Serve this dish immediately while warm for the creamiest experience. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce.
What to Serve With This Recipe?
Garlic Bread
The classic choice to soak up the extra Cajun garlic butter sauce.
Simple Side Salad
A crisp, green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness.
Roasted Asparagus
Adds a touch of earthy freshness and crunch.
Creamy Coleslaw
The creamy, tangy crunch pairs well with the spicy pasta.
Parmesan Roasted Potatoes
For a double-carb indulgence on cozy nights.
Lemon Wedges
Bright citrus cuts through the creamy sauce beautifully.
Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?
If you love this bold Cajun pasta, you’ll enjoy these other comforting favorites from SavorQueen:
- Garlic Butter Steak Parmesan Rigatoni
- Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce
- Cheesy Ranch Chicken Garlic Butter Fettuccine
- Ultimate One-Pan Creamy Honey Butter Steak Pasta
- One-Pan Cajun Honey Butter Steak Pasta Wonder
Save This Pin For Later
Save this hearty and flavorful pasta to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s ready for your next weeknight dinner idea.
Tried it with your own twist? Maybe an extra sprinkle of parmesan or a dash of hot sauce? Share your experience and tips in the comments below!
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next comfort meal is waiting there!
Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Colander
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin or ribeye, sliced into strips
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika, for garnish
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat a skillet with oil over medium-high heat. Season beef strips with salt, pepper, and ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning. Sear 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain.
- In the skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning.
- Pour in heavy cream, simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
- Toss in cooked rigatoni and Parmesan until creamy. Return beef strips, garnish with parsley and paprika. Serve immediately.