If you are craving a meal that delivers bold flavors, velvety textures, and a touch of elegance all in one plate, then this Cajun Garlic Butter Steak over Creamy Parmesan Linguine Recipe is going to be your new favorite dinner. Imagine juicy, perfectly seared steak seasoned with spicy Cajun kicks resting atop a bed of rich and creamy Parmesan-coated linguine—each bite a harmonious blend of savory, spicy, and buttery goodness that feels both comforting and indulgent. This recipe captures the magic of restaurant-quality steakhouse dining right in your own kitchen and makes it effortlessly approachable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is the key to nailing this dish. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and adding that ideal balance of texture and color, bringing this Cajun Garlic Butter Steak over Creamy Parmesan Linguine Recipe to life.
- 2 steaks (ribeye, strip, or sirloin): Choose steaks about 1 inch thick for perfect searing and juiciness.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning: This spice blend packs in a flavorful punch with hints of paprika, garlic, and cayenne pepper.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps achieve the perfect sear and keeps the steak moist.
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided: Adds rich creaminess to both the steak and the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with fragrance and sharp, savory notes.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxuriously smooth base for the Parmesan sauce.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the cream for that classic sharp, nutty flavor and creamy texture.
- 8 ounces linguine pasta: The perfect long pasta choice to soak up all that amazing sauce.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for properly seasoning the dish and balancing the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and subtle herbaceous flavor.
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak over Creamy Parmesan Linguine Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Steak
Start by patting your steaks dry to ensure a beautiful crust when searing. Generously coat both sides with Cajun seasoning, then sprinkle salt and pepper to taste. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter with the olive oil. Place the steaks in the hot pan and sear for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, depending on your preferred doneness. After searing, remove the steaks and let them rest—this step locks in the juices and keeps them tender and flavorful.
Step 2: Cook the Linguine Pasta
While the steak rests, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the linguine until just al dente. Don’t forget to reserve about half a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining—it comes in handy for adjusting the sauce’s consistency in the next step.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Reduce the skillet heat to medium and add the remaining butter. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant and golden, but not burnt. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and stir gently until it reaches a simmer. Then add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts completely, creating a luscious, smooth sauce. Use the reserved pasta water if you want to thin it out just a bit—it’s all about that perfect creamy texture.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Return the drained linguine to the skillet and toss thoroughly in the creamy Parmesan sauce. Let the pasta cook in the sauce for one to two minutes to absorb all those rich flavors, stirring gently to coat every strand evenly.
Step 5: Slice Steak and Serve
Slice your rested steaks against the grain into juicy strips and generously place them over your creamy Parmesan linguine. For a bright finishing touch, sprinkle on chopped parsley if you like. This step completes your Cajun Garlic Butter Steak over Creamy Parmesan Linguine Recipe with a professional and inviting presentation that tastes as incredible as it looks.
How to Serve Cajun Garlic Butter Steak over Creamy Parmesan Linguine Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate your dish instantly. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top to add color and a hint of fresh, earthy flavor that offsets the richness perfectly. You could also add a light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the creamy sauce even more.
Side Dishes
Serve this hearty Cajun Garlic Butter Steak over Creamy Parmesan Linguine Recipe alongside a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli rabe. The veggies add crunch and freshness, balancing the indulgence of the creamy pasta and buttery steak. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread also makes a fantastic accompaniment to mop up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, plate with precision by swirling a generous forkful of linguine on each plate, then fanning the steak slices over the top. Drizzle some extra garlic butter from the skillet around the edges for a glossy finish. Consider serving in shallow bowls to contain all that creamy, dreamy sauce and use edible flowers or microgreens as a fancy garnish that hints at the vibrant flavors within.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers from your Cajun Garlic Butter Steak over Creamy Parmesan Linguine Recipe, pack them in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. The steak and pasta will keep well for up to three days, allowing you to enjoy this flavorful dish again with minimal effort.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal for the pasta texture. If you do freeze it, separate the steak from the linguine and sauce, placing each in airtight containers. The steak holds up better in the freezer for up to two months, but the creamy pasta sauce may become grainy once thawed.
Reheating
Reheat leftover Cajun Garlic Butter Steak over Creamy Parmesan Linguine Recipe gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream or pasta water to revive the sauce’s creaminess, stirring often. Reheat the steak just until warm to keep it tender and juicy, as overcooking will make it tough.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ribeye, strip, or sirloin steaks are all great options and will work beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time to your preferred doneness since thicker or thinner cuts will cook differently.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast. Keep in mind the flavors will shift slightly, but it can still yield a delicious creamy pasta experience.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?
The level of heat depends on the Cajun seasoning blend you use. Typically, it offers a mild to moderate spice kick with smoky, savory notes. You can always adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
Can this recipe be doubled to serve more people?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients to serve four or more. Just be sure to use a larger skillet or cook the steak in batches to maintain a good sear and even cooking.
What’s the best way to slice the steak?
Always slice against the grain of the meat. This means cutting perpendicular to the direction of the muscle fibers, which ensures each bite is tender and easy to chew.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Garlic Butter Steak over Creamy Parmesan Linguine Recipe brings the perfect balance of bold spices, rich creaminess, and melt-in-your-mouth steak that is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share your table. Whether for a special date night or a comforting weekend treat, this dish is a celebration of simple ingredients done spectacularly well. Don’t hesitate—grab your skillet and get cooking. Your taste buds will thank you for it!
Print
Cajun Garlic Butter Steak over Creamy Parmesan Linguine Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cajun Garlic Butter Steak over Creamy Parmesan Linguine is a flavorful and satisfying dish combining perfectly seared, seasoned steaks with a rich, creamy Parmesan pasta. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an impressive yet easy meal that brings together bold Cajun spices and smooth garlic butter sauce for a delightful dinner experience.
Ingredients
Steak
- 2 steaks (ribeye, strip, or sirloin), about 1 inch thick
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 ounces linguine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (from cooking linguine)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare and Season Steaks: Pat the steaks dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to enhance flavor.
- Heat Butter and Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of butter along with the olive oil. Allow to heat until the butter melts and the oil shimmers.
- Sear Steaks: Place the steaks in the hot skillet and sear for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they reach your preferred level of doneness. Remove steaks from skillet and let them rest to retain juices.
- Cook Linguine: In a pot of salted boiling water, cook linguine until al dente, following package instructions. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the pasta completely.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet used for the steaks, reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously until the mixture begins to simmer gently.
- Add Parmesan and Adjust Sauce: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and cook until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, thin it gradually with the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is achieved.
- Toss Linguine in Sauce: Add the drained linguine to the skillet with the sauce. Toss and cook together for 1-2 minutes to ensure the pasta is thoroughly coated and heated through.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the rested steaks against the grain for tenderness. Serve the sliced steak atop the creamy Parmesan linguine and garnish with chopped parsley if desired for a fresh finish.
Notes
- For best results, use high-quality steaks such as ribeye or strip steak.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning based on your preferred spice level.
- Reserving pasta water is key to adjusting the sauce’s consistency without thinning the flavor.
- Letting the steak rest after cooking helps keep it juicy and tender.
- Feel free to add a splash of white wine to the cream sauce for extra depth.
