Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight

Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight

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Tender Cajun-spiced beef tips seared to perfection and served alongside rotini pasta drenched in a velvety, creamy cheese sauce—this dish is pure comfort with a little Southern kick. Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight brings bold flavor and rich texture to your plate in a way that satisfies both weeknight cravings and special dinner occasions.

The Cajun seasoning infuses the beef with a spicy, smoky punch, while the creamy rotini soothes the palate with its buttery, cheesy goodness. The contrast between the tender char of the beef and the luscious swirl of sauce over rotini makes each bite unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing dinner guests, this recipe delivers both ease and elegance.


Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create this creamy Cajun masterpiece, you need just a few reliable kitchen tools:

  • Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan: Crucial for searing the beef. It provides an even, high heat that forms that perfect crust on the meat.
  • Large Pot for Boiling Pasta: Rotini needs room to move around and cook evenly. Choose a wide pot to avoid clumping.
  • Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring sauces and scraping up all those flavorful bits from the pan.
  • Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: For slicing beef into even chunks, ensuring even cooking.
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons: To accurately balance the Cajun spices and sauce ingredients.

With these essentials, you’ll be set up for success, ensuring both flavor and finesse in every step.


Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight

Each component in this dish plays a vital role in building a flavorful, comforting meal.

  • Beef Sirloin or Ribeye Tips – These cuts provide rich marbling and tenderness, making them perfect for searing and soaking in Cajun spices.
  • Rotini Pasta – The spiral shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, delivering flavor in every bite.
  • Heavy Cream – Acts as the luxurious base of the cheese sauce, giving it that silky, rich texture.
  • Cheddar Cheese – Adds sharpness and depth to the sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese – Brings a nutty, salty contrast to balance out the creaminess.
  • Cajun Seasoning – The bold spice mix that gives the beef its signature kick. Use homemade or store-bought.
  • Garlic (minced) – Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
  • Butter – Adds richness to the sauce and helps brown the beef beautifully.
  • Olive Oil – Assists in the initial sear for the beef.
  • Salt and Pepper – Basic seasonings to enhance the flavor throughout.
  • Parsley (optional, for garnish) – Adds freshness and a pop of color.
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How To Make the Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight

Step 1: Season and Sear the Beef

Generously season your beef chunks with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a hot skillet and sear the beef on all sides until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Boil the Rotini

In a large pot of salted water, cook the rotini until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of pasta water.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet used for the beef, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a low simmer. Gradually stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked rotini into the sauce, tossing gently to coat. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Step 6: Assemble the Dish

Plate the creamy rotini and top with the seared Cajun beef. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.


Serving and Storing Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight

Serve this dish hot and fresh, ideally right after assembling. The creamy sauce is at its silkiest when it’s just off the heat, clinging lovingly to the rotini. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a full, indulgent meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid freezing, as the dairy-based sauce may separate.


Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

That depends on your Cajun seasoning! You can tone it down by using less, or balance it with extra cream and cheese for a milder experience.

Can I substitute the beef with another protein?

Absolutely. Chicken breast, shrimp, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well and still hold up to the creamy Cajun sauce.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or whole milk can be used, but the sauce will be less rich. Add a little flour or cream cheese to thicken if needed.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the beef and sauce ahead, but for best texture, cook the pasta fresh and combine everything just before serving.

Is this kid-friendly?

Yes! Just adjust the Cajun spice level and they’ll love the creamy, cheesy pasta.

How do I keep the sauce from getting too thick?

Use some reserved pasta water or a splash of milk when reheating to loosen it up without losing flavor.


Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you loved this Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight, here are a few more bold and comforting pasta recipes you should try:

For more daily recipe inspiration, follow me on Pinterest at Life With Olivia — your go-to for indulgent comfort meals and creative kitchen twists!


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 go for spicy or keep it creamy and mild? Did you sneak in extra cheese or top it with crispy onions?

I love hearing your twists and tips. Got questions or suggestions? Drop them below—let’s make dinner even better together.


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Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight

Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight


  • Author: Olivia McKenney
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Creamy Cajun Beef and Rotini Delight is the perfect fusion of bold Cajun spice and comforting creamy pasta. Tender seared beef tips are paired with rotini pasta and tossed in a rich cheese sauce with garlic and herbs. This dish is hearty, flavorful, and comes together beautifully for family dinners or casual entertaining.


Ingredients

1 lb beef sirloin or ribeye tips

12 oz rotini pasta

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tbsp Cajun seasoning

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp butter

1 tbsp olive oil

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)


Instructions

1. Season beef chunks with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear beef on all sides until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3. In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook rotini pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.

4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually add cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.

6. Add cooked rotini to the sauce and toss gently to coat. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

7. Plate the creamy pasta and top with the seared Cajun beef. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

For less spice, reduce Cajun seasoning and add more cream to mellow the heat.

Don’t skip searing the beef—it adds a rich, caramelized layer of flavor.

Reserve some pasta water; it’s great for thinning the sauce without losing creaminess.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet + Boil
  • Cuisine: Cajun-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 680
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 19g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 47g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 115mg

Keywords: Cajun beef, creamy pasta, rotini, skillet dinner

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