Craving something rich, spicy, and utterly satisfying? This Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet is about to become your go-to indulgence. Imagine perfectly seared steak slices, resting on a bed of creamy Cajun-spiced pasta, all made in a single skillet for minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. It’s the kind of comfort food that feels like a restaurant dish but comes together easily at home.

Each bite balances velvety sauce, punchy Cajun heat, and the deep savoriness of juicy, pan-seared steak. Whether you’re looking for a bold weeknight dinner or want to impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe delivers on every level.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To nail this Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet, the right tools make all the difference:

Cast Iron or Heavy Skillet: Retains heat evenly, giving the steak that golden-brown crust while holding up to the creamy sauce without scorching.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: A must for slicing steak against the grain for ultra-tender bites.
Tongs: Makes flipping the steak and tossing the pasta effortless without damaging the meat.
Large Pot: For boiling your pasta to al dente perfection.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.

These tools streamline the process and ensure every component—from the seared steak to the creamy pasta—turns out as intended.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet

Ribeye or Sirloin Steak – Rich and tender, it provides the meaty centerpiece.
Penne Pasta – Holds onto that creamy sauce beautifully.
Heavy Cream – The base of the sauce, giving it that luscious, velvety texture.
Butter – Infuses richness and helps meld the Cajun spices into the sauce.
Cajun Seasoning – The star flavor, bringing heat and smokiness.
Garlic (Minced) – Adds aromatic depth that balances the creamy base.
Parmesan Cheese – Melts into the sauce for a nutty finish and added body.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning at every stage.
Fresh Parsley (Chopped) – A bright, fresh garnish to cut through the richness.

How To Make the Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet

Step 1: Prep the Steak

Pat the steak dry with paper towels, season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

Heat your skillet over medium-high and melt a tablespoon of butter. Sear the steak on both sides until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove and let it rest before slicing thinly against the grain.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the penne until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add more butter and garlic. Sauté briefly until fragrant. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, then pour in the heavy cream. Simmer gently until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Toss It All Together

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, sprinkle in Parmesan cheese, and stir until coated. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Top with the sliced steak, sprinkle fresh parsley, and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra kick. Serve hot.

How to Serve and Store Your Cajun Steak Pasta

Serve this dish hot and fresh, straight from the skillet. Garnish with extra parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice if you want to brighten the richness. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus for a balanced meal.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool and transfer it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes! While ribeye and sirloin are ideal, New York strip or filet mignon also work beautifully. Just make sure it’s a tender cut suitable for quick searing.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter (or dairy-free) version, though the sauce may be slightly less thick.

How spicy is this recipe?

It has a medium Cajun kick. Adjust the heat by using more or less Cajun seasoning, or opt for a mild blend if you prefer.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the steak and boil the pasta ahead, but combine everything fresh for the creamiest texture.

What pasta shapes work besides penne?

Rotini, rigatoni, or fettuccine all pair well with the sauce. Just choose something with enough surface area to catch the cream.

Can I freeze it?

Cream-based sauces don’t freeze perfectly, as they can separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge within a few days.

Want More Creamy Steak Pasta Ideas?

If you’re into bold, creamy, and savory steak pasta combos, here are some recipes you’ll want to try next:

Check out the One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta, which uses a cheesy garlic punch for a bold twist.

Or dive into Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Parmesan Shells — a bite-sized take with irresistible buttery notes.

If you’re craving a tomato-forward variation, Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta might hit the mark.

For spice lovers, Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta offers a wild heat-and-cream combo, while Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce gives a comforting creamy finish.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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And if you make it, I’d love to hear your spin on it. Did you go extra spicy? Try a different cut of beef? Let me know in the comments. Your feedback makes these recipes even better.

Looking for more daily recipes and kitchen inspo? Follow me on Pinterest at LadyPlate where I share new meals every day.

Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

A bold, spicy, and creamy pasta dish topped with perfectly seared steak slices. This Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet delivers restaurant-level flavor in just one pan. Cajun heat, buttery richness, and al dente pasta come together for a dish that’s hearty, comforting, and easy enough for a weeknight dinner.

Instructions

1. Pat steak dry with paper towels, then season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.

2. Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a cast iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to desired doneness. Let rest, then slice thinly against the grain.

3. Cook pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

4. Lower skillet heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons butter. Sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Stir in Cajun seasoning and heavy cream. Simmer until sauce thickens slightly.

6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Mix in Parmesan cheese and toss until pasta is fully coated. Add pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

7. Top with sliced steak and garnish with parsley and optional red pepper flakes. Serve hot.

Notes

Letting the steak rest before slicing keeps the juices locked in for maximum tenderness.

Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melt and flavor in the sauce.

If the sauce thickens too much while sitting, loosen it with a splash of warm cream or milk when reheating.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 745
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 720mg
Fat: 43g
Saturated Fat: 23g
Unsaturated Fat: 17g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 41g
Cholesterol: 165mg

Keywords: cajun steak pasta, creamy pasta, steak skillet