Description

Bring bold flavor and creamy indulgence to your dinner table with this *Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni*. This easy dinner idea blends smoky Cajun spices with a rich garlic butter cream sauce, tossed in pasta that clings to every bite of tender seared beef. It’s the perfect mix of Southern heat and Italian comfort, making it one of the best quick dinner ideas or hearty food ideas for cozy nights. Whether you’re looking for a new easy recipe or crave something luxurious with minimal effort, this dish is packed with protein, flavor, and personality.

Ingredients

1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized cubes

1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

1 tbsp olive oil

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1 tsp smoked paprika

12 oz rigatoni pasta

Water and salt for boiling

4 tbsp unsalted butter

5 cloves garlic, finely minced

1 ½ cups heavy cream

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ tsp Cajun seasoning

1 tsp Italian seasoning

¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Splash of pasta water

Fresh parsley for garnish

Extra Parmesan for garnish

Sprinkle of paprika or chili flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Pat the beef cubes dry, season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.

5. Pour in the heavy cream, stir in Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, Italian herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 4–5 minutes.

6. Stir in pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to desired consistency.

7. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, toss to coat evenly, and simmer for 1–2 minutes.

8. Top with seared beef, chopped parsley, and optional garnishes before serving.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor.

Let the beef rest after cooking to retain juices.

Always taste and adjust Cajun seasoning based on your preferred spice level.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Searing & Simmering
Cuisine: Cajun-Italian Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 650
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 36g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 14g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: easy dinner, creamy pasta, beef pasta, spicy pasta, cajun recipe, comfort food, dinner ideas, quick meals