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Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni Recipe

Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 9 reviews

A rich and flavorful Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak paired perfectly with creamy rigatoni pasta. This comforting dish features tender, pan-seared steak seasoned with bold Cajun spices, enveloped in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce loaded with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, tossed with al dente rigatoni and garnished with fresh parsley and a hint of lemon.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 12 oz rigatoni

Steak & Seasoning

  • 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak (about 1-inch thick)
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Sauce

  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium beef broth
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Cook Rigatoni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rigatoni and cook until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta.
  2. Season Steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper to ensure a flavorful crust.
  3. Sear Steak: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once melted and hot, sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness. Remove steak from skillet and set aside to rest, allowing juices to redistribute.
  4. Prepare Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  5. Add Liquids: Pour in the beef broth and let it simmer for 1 minute to reduce slightly. Then add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously.
  6. Add Cheeses: Whisk in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, loosen it by gradually adding the reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
  7. Toss Pasta: Add the cooked rigatoni to the sauce and toss well, ensuring each piece is coated generously with the cheesy garlic butter sauce.
  8. Finish and Serve: Slice the rested steak against the grain into thin strips. Return the steak to the skillet with the pasta. Stir in optional red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, and lemon juice for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • For best steak results, use a cast iron skillet for even searing.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to control spice level or omit altogether for a milder taste.
  • Reserve pasta water is key to adjusting sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
  • Letting the steak rest after cooking is essential for juicy cuts.
  • This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cheesy Cajun Steak, Garlic Butter Steak, Creamy Rigatoni, Cajun Pasta, Steak Dinner, Comfort Food

Find it online: https://chefmilacook.com/cheesy-cajun-garlic-butter-steak-with-creamy-rigatoni-recipe/