Craving a weeknight dinner that hits all the marks—rich, bold, creamy, and satisfying? This Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce blends the deep flavors of perfectly seared steak with the kick of Cajun spice, all tied together with a luscious garlic parmesan cream. It’s the kind of meal that turns a simple evening into something memorable.

This dish doesn’t just look comforting, it delivers in every bite. Tender steak slices are tossed with al dente pasta and a homemade parmesan sauce that’s fragrant with garlic and full of cheesy goodness. It’s bold without being overpowering, creamy but still full of heat. A true crowd-pleaser that works just as well for a quiet night in or an easy dinner for friends.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving in, gather the essential tools for a smooth cooking experience:

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan – Crucial for searing the steak to lock in flavor and build that beautiful crust.
Large Pot – Needed for boiling your pasta. A wide, deep pot ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
Sharp Knife & Cutting Board – A quality chef’s knife helps slice the steak thinly and cleanly, especially after it’s rested.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – These tools are perfect for stirring the garlic parmesan sauce without scratching your pan.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – Precision matters for balancing spices in both the Cajun seasoning and the sauce.

These basics will make your cooking smoother and ensure each component of the dish is prepped and cooked with care.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Each ingredient plays a specific role in bringing depth, creaminess, and heat to this dish:

Ribeye or Sirloin Steak – Marbled and juicy, these cuts deliver flavor and tenderness after a quick sear.
Fettuccine or Penne Pasta – These pasta shapes hold the creamy sauce well and add texture.
Heavy Cream – The base for the garlic parmesan sauce, adding richness and velvety texture.
Garlic Cloves – Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with a robust, aromatic backbone.
Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated, it melts smoothly into the sauce for deep umami and creaminess.
Cajun Seasoning – A mix of spices (like paprika, cayenne, garlic powder) that adds heat and a smoky punch.
Butter and Olive Oil – Used for searing the steak and building the sauce base with flavor.
Salt and Black Pepper – Balances and enhances the dish’s flavors.
Parsley (optional) – For a fresh finish and a pop of color.

How To Make the Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Steak

Season your steak with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat butter and oil in a skillet until shimmering, then sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side. Rest the meat before slicing thinly across the grain.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, add a touch more butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and simmer gently.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add more Cajun seasoning to taste and a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen.

Step 5: Combine and Toss

Add the cooked pasta and sliced steak into the sauce. Toss until everything is well coated and heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan before serving hot.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Serve this dish immediately while hot, ideally in shallow bowls that let the creamy sauce pool around the pasta. A sprinkle of parsley or extra parmesan on top makes for a beautiful finishing touch. Pair with garlic bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness.

For storing, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s smoothness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, flank or skirt steak works well if sliced thin against the grain. They cook fast and absorb seasoning beautifully.

Is there a non-dairy substitute for the cream?

You can use full-fat coconut milk or unsweetened oat cream for a dairy-free version, though the flavor will slightly differ.

Can I make it ahead of time?

You can prep the steak and sauce in advance, but cook the pasta fresh for best texture. Reheat the sauce gently and toss with pasta right before serving.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

Make your own with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme. Adjust spice to taste.

Will this freeze well?

Cream sauces tend to separate after freezing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated rather than frozen.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach are great additions. Sauté them in the skillet before adding the cream.

Want More Cajun Pasta Ideas?

You might also like the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, where tender chicken meets a creamy, spiced sauce that’s ideal for weeknights. Or check out the One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta for a similar flavor combo with fewer dishes.

For variety, try the Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce, which brings a slightly different texture and a milder sauce. If you’re into seafood, the Louisiana Seafood Gumbo adds that Cajun flair with a Southern twist.

And if you prefer comforting classics, the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta offers a rich and hearty dish that’s pasta night perfection.

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If you make this Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce, I’d love to know how it turned out! Did you go heavy on the spice? Try a different pasta? Drop a comment below. I’m always curious to see your take.

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Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce brings together bold Cajun flavors and creamy comfort. Juicy seared steak slices are tossed with tender pasta in a rich garlic-parmesan cream sauce, perfect for indulgent weeknight dinners or entertaining guests.