Cheesy Cajun Steak Linguine with Creamy Garlic Sauce

Bold, Creamy, and Packed with Steakhouse Flavor

If you’re craving something indulgent, bold, and downright delicious, this Cheesy Cajun Steak Linguine hits all the right notes. Tender slices of Cajun-seasoned steak are tossed with linguine in a silky, garlicky cream sauce, then topped with melty cheese for a dish that feels both decadent and down-home. It’s like your favorite steakhouse pasta but with a spicy Cajun kick and a rich, cheesy finish that makes every bite crave-worthy.

This one-pot wonder brings together deep flavor, creamy texture, and a touch of Southern heat—perfect for weeknights, date nights, or feeding a hungry crowd.

🌟 Why This Recipe Works

  • Steak + Pasta = Power Couple:
    Savory, seared steak brings richness and heft to the creamy pasta.

  • Cajun Kick:
    A bold spice blend adds heat and depth without overwhelming the dish.

  • Creamy Garlic Sauce:
    Lush and flavorful, it coats the pasta perfectly with every swirl.

  • Cheesy Finish:
    A final touch of Parmesan and mozzarella brings it all together.

  • Easy But Impressive:
    Despite its rich flavor, it comes together quickly in one pan!

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cajun Steak

  • 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, thinly sliced

  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Pasta

  • 8 oz linguine pasta (or fettuccine)

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream

  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning (more to taste)

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional, to brighten)

  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

  • Extra Cajun seasoning, for garnish (optional)

💡 Tip: You can substitute shrimp or chicken for the steak—or use all three for a surf-and-turf pasta feast!

🔥 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook linguine in salted boiling water according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak

While the pasta cooks, toss the steak strips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Pour in heavy cream and stir, scraping any browned bits off the bottom for flavor. Simmer 2–3 minutes.

Add Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice to brighten the flavor.

Step 4: Toss the Pasta

Add the drained linguine to the sauce and toss to coat. Add a splash of pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Add Steak and Serve

Return the steak to the pan and toss gently to combine. Let everything warm through for 1–2 minutes.

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheese, or a dusting of Cajun seasoning for color.

🔄 Variations to Try

  • Add Veggies: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers are great additions.

  • Use Chicken or Shrimp: Swap or add for a surf-and-turf experience.

  • Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.

  • Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of cream and reduce cheese slightly.

🍽️ Serving Ideas

Pair With:

  • Garlic bread or warm baguette

  • A crisp Caesar or wedge salad

  • Grilled or roasted asparagus

  • A glass of chilled white wine or iced sweet tea

Garnishes:

  • Fresh parsley or basil

  • Shaved Parmesan

  • A sprinkle of paprika or Cajun seasoning

  • Lemon zest for brightness

🧊 Storage + Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

Freezer: Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, so freezing is not recommended.

To Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s texture.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta?
Yes! Fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni work great.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, and salt.

Can I make it spicier?
Definitely—add more Cajun seasoning, cayenne, or a few dashes of hot sauce.

What’s the best steak for this?
Sirloin is great for tenderness and flavor, but ribeye or flank steak work beautifully too.

🥩 Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Cajun Steak Linguine is what creamy, spicy comfort food dreams are made of. It’s rich without being heavy, and every bite is laced with savory steak, gooey cheese, and garlicky goodness. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just feeding yourself something next-level on a weeknight, this dish delivers the flavor—and then some.