Bold, buttery, and absolutely packed with flavor, this Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips is the weeknight pasta dish that eats like a restaurant meal. Imagine tender strips of seasoned beef seared to perfection and tossed with linguine in a creamy garlic butter sauce that’s been kissed with just the right amount of Cajun spice.

This dish is the ultimate comfort food with a kick. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, every bite of this pasta is rich, garlicky, and just a little spicy. It combines the heartiness of steakhouse favorites with the soul of Southern cuisine in one easy-to-make dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips

This dish is all about indulgence and simplicity. You get that deep, buttery garlic flavor paired with smoky Cajun heat, and it all clings beautifully to linguine. It’s filling, flavorful, and comes together fast, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or a special weekend treat. Plus, it’s totally customizable—toss in veggies, switch up the protein, or play with spice levels to suit your taste.

What Kind of Beef Should I Use for Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine?

For the best results, go for a cut that cooks quickly and stays tender, like sirloin, ribeye, or flank steak. Slice the beef thin against the grain to keep each bite melt-in-your-mouth tender. Avoid tougher cuts that require slow cooking—this is a fast skillet dish, and the beef should sear quickly without becoming chewy.

Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips

This dish brings together rich, bold ingredients that work in perfect harmony. The Cajun seasoning infuses the beef with just the right amount of smoky heat, while the butter and garlic create a luscious sauce that coats every strand of linguine.

Linguine
Beef strips (sirloin or flank steak)
Cajun seasoning
Butter
Garlic cloves (minced)
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Salt
Black pepper
Olive oil
Fresh parsley (chopped)
Red pepper flakes (optional)

Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips 1

How To Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips

Step 1: Season and Sear the Beef

Start by seasoning your beef strips generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef for 2-3 minutes per side, or until just cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Linguine

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet used for the beef, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Combine

Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked linguine and toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Add Beef and Finish

Return the seared beef strips to the skillet and gently toss to combine. Let it all warm through for a minute or two. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and serve hot.

How to Serve and Store Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips

This recipe makes enough to satisfy 4 hungry people comfortably, making it perfect for a family meal or small dinner gathering. Serve it hot straight from the skillet, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a little extra Parmesan on top if you like it cheesy.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or water to bring the sauce back to life, and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

What to Serve With Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips?

Garlic Bread with Herbs

A warm slice of buttery garlic bread is the ultimate partner to this pasta, perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce on the plate.

Simple Arugula Salad

Add some brightness to your plate with a peppery arugula salad dressed in lemon juice and olive oil. The freshness balances out the richness of the dish.

Roasted Vegetables

A tray of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes adds a splash of color and earthy sweetness that complements the Cajun flavors.

Creamed Spinach

The creamy texture of spinach makes a smooth contrast to the boldness of the linguine, adding a mild, nutritious layer to the meal.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet and slightly charred grilled corn brings a hint of summer BBQ to the table, playing beautifully with the spices.

Southern-Style Coleslaw

A cool, crunchy side of coleslaw adds a tangy bite that cuts through the creamy sauce.

Buttery Green Beans

Quickly sautéed green beans with garlic and lemon are a fresh and crisp side that keeps the meal feeling balanced.

Want More Pasta Ideas with Bold Flavor?

If you can’t get enough of savory, creamy pasta dishes like this Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine, here are some more deliciously hearty recipes worth checking out:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a rich, satisfying bowl packed with ground beef and cheesy goodness.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a quick and cozy one-pot dinner.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce brings the iconic sandwich flavor to a comforting pasta twist.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta blends the richness of Alfredo with bold beefy bites.
One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta if you’re craving smoky depth with minimal cleanup.