When bold Cajun spice meets creamy garlic Parmesan, the result is an irresistible, flavor-packed comfort dish: Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta. This recipe is for those nights when you want to indulge without spending hours in the kitchen. Tender, seared steak slices are nestled next to creamy, cheesy rotini pasta that absorbs every bit of that rich garlic-Parmesan goodness.

It’s a weeknight dinner that feels like a steakhouse treat, balanced by the heat of Cajun seasoning and the smooth, mellow richness of the sauce. Whether you’re cooking for guests or craving something satisfying after a long day, this one-pan dish delivers major flavor with minimal cleanup.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting this dish just right depends on a few kitchen essentials:

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottom Pan: This helps achieve that beautiful crust on your steak, locking in juices and adding that crave-worthy sear.
Large Pot for Pasta: Boil your rotini in a roomy pot to keep the pasta from sticking together.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: Clean, even cuts of steak are important for even cooking and gorgeous presentation.

Whisk: Crucial for blending the garlic Parmesan sauce to a creamy consistency without clumps.
Tongs: Perfect for flipping steak and tossing the pasta gently with the sauce.

Having everything ready makes the cooking process seamless—and ensures your steak stays juicy while your pasta turns out perfectly coated.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta

Ribeye or Sirloin Steak – Juicy and flavorful, this protein soaks up the Cajun spices beautifully.
Rotini Pasta – The spiral shape clings to the garlic Parmesan sauce in every bite.
Heavy Cream – Builds the luscious base of your sauce.

Parmesan Cheese – Salty, nutty, and essential for that creamy finish.
Fresh Garlic – A bold aromatic that sets the foundation for the sauce.
Butter – Helps with richness and depth in the sauce.

Cajun Seasoning – Brings heat and complexity to the steak.
Olive Oil – Ideal for searing the steak to perfection.
Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances and balances all the flavors.

Parsley (optional) – Adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal.

How To Make the Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta

Step 1: Season & Sear the Steak

Rub the steak generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Once cooked to your liking, remove from heat and let it rest before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the steak cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for steak, lower the heat and melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, then whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Pasta & Sauce

Add the drained rotini into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat every piece of pasta. If the sauce is too thick, splash in a bit of reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Assemble & Serve

Slice the rested steak into strips. Plate the creamy pasta and top with the Cajun steak slices. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta

This dish is best enjoyed hot and fresh, with the steak still juicy and the sauce silky. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.

For leftovers, store pasta and steak separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy texture. Steak is best gently warmed in a skillet to preserve its tenderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes! Sirloin, New York strip, or even filet mignon will work well. Just adjust cooking times based on thickness.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make your own using paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely. Add red pepper flakes or extra Cajun seasoning for a kick.

Is there a non-dairy version of this recipe?

Use plant-based cream and Parmesan alternatives. Make sure the cheese melts well for a creamy consistency.

Can I substitute the pasta type?

Yes, penne, fusilli, or farfalle all hold the sauce well.

How do I know when the steak is done?

Use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F (medium rare) to 145°F (medium), depending on your preference.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

Save This Recipe for Later

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

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or swap the steak? Did you go for extra cheese?

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

You can find more daily recipes on my Pinterest page here: Life With Olivia on Pinterest

Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce is the perfect fusion of spicy and creamy comfort food. Juicy Cajun-rubbed steak slices top a bed of rotini pasta tossed in a rich garlic Parmesan sauce. This one-pan meal is fast enough for weeknights and bold enough for special occasions.

Instructions

1. Rub steak with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear steak 3–4 minutes per side until desired doneness. Let rest and slice thin.

2. Cook rotini pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and reserve ¼ cup pasta water.

3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium-low. Melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.

4. Pour in heavy cream and whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

5. Add the drained pasta into the skillet. Toss to coat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to thin the sauce.

6. Plate pasta and top with sliced steak. Garnish with parsley if using. Serve hot.