Picture this: tender, juicy steak bites sizzling in a rich garlic butter sauce, infused with the bold kick of Cajun spices. Now pair that with perfectly cooked rigatoni coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce that hugs every bite. This recipe is the kind of indulgence that feels like a restaurant treat, yet comes together in your own kitchen with minimal fuss.

It’s a marriage of hearty comfort food and bold, mouthwatering flavor. The Cajun seasoning brings a warm, smoky spice, the garlic butter melts into a silky coating for the steak, and the creamy rigatoni balances it all with a velvety, cheesy finish. Whether you’re planning a cozy date night, hosting friends, or simply craving something indulgent, this dish delivers on all fronts.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

This recipe is an explosion of flavor and texture. The savory seared steak, the richness of garlic butter, the gentle heat of Cajun spices, and the decadent creaminess of the rigatoni create a complete and satisfying meal. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough for guests. Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily tweak the spice level or swap the pasta shape to your liking.

What Cut of Steak Should I Use for the Best Results?

For tender, juicy bites, choose cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin. These cuts have enough marbling to stay moist and flavorful when seared quickly. Slice them into bite-sized pieces before cooking so each morsel gets evenly coated in that irresistible garlic butter Cajun sauce.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

This recipe is all about big flavor, so every ingredient plays a key role in making it unforgettable.

Steak – The star of the show, bringing tender, juicy bites to the dish.
Cajun seasoning – Adds a smoky, slightly spicy kick that wakes up every bite.
Butter – Creates a rich base for the garlic and herbs to bloom.
Garlic – Infuses the butter with irresistible aroma and flavor.
Heavy cream – Brings luscious creaminess to the rigatoni sauce.
Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for a salty, nutty finish.
Rigatoni pasta – Holds the creamy sauce perfectly in its ridges.
Olive oil – Helps sear the steak to golden perfection.
Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning every layer.
Fresh parsley – Adds a pop of freshness to balance the richness.

How To Make the Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

Step 1: Prepare the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rigatoni until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and sear the steak

Pat the steak dry and season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the steak pieces until browned on all sides and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.

Step 3: Make the garlic butter sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 4: Create the creamy sauce

Pour in heavy cream and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Combine and serve

Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss until coated. Return the steak to the skillet, tossing gently to combine. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Serving and Storing Your Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

This hearty meal is best enjoyed right after it’s prepared, when the steak is juicy and the rigatoni is perfectly coated in sauce. It’s designed to serve about four people, making it perfect for a family dinner or small gathering. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s silky texture.

What to Serve With Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.

Roasted Asparagus

Lightly seasoned and oven-roasted, asparagus adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich pasta.

Caesar Salad

The tangy dressing and crunchy croutons of a Caesar salad offer a refreshing balance.

Sautéed Spinach

Quickly wilted with garlic, this makes a light, nutrient-packed side.

Grilled Zucchini

Charred and tender zucchini pairs beautifully with the Cajun flavors.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a light starter.

Herb Roasted Potatoes

A crispy, herby side dish that complements the steak perfectly.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni, you’ll probably enjoy these other comforting and flavorful pasta recipes:

One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni for a hearty, savory twist.
Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta when you crave something rich yet bright.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for a seafood spin with Cajun heat.
Tuscan Chicken Pasta loaded with Mediterranean-inspired flavors.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you crank up the Cajun spice or keep it mild? Did you add extra cheese for even more indulgence?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated, flavor-packed dinner ideas on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite meal.

Conclusion

Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni is a true celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures. From the tender, spiced steak to the creamy, cheesy pasta, it’s the perfect dish for when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it with your favorite sides, share it with loved ones, and enjoy every bite.