There’s something undeniably satisfying about a sizzling hot skillet loaded with juicy, tender steak and silky, rich rigatoni drenched in a velvety garlic butter sauce. This Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni is where steakhouse luxury meets comforting pasta night, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.

The bold Cajun spices give the seared steak a smoky kick, while the cheesy rigatoni wraps around each bite like a blanket of comfort. It’s indulgent without being heavy, flavorful without being overwhelming, and the kind of dinner that stops conversation at the table because everyone’s too busy savoring each forkful.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

If you’re the type of person who craves flavor-packed meals that hit every craving at once, this recipe checks every box. The Cajun seasoning adds that Southern warmth, while the garlic butter and cheese deliver richness that clings perfectly to pasta. Plus, it all comes together in under an hour.

This dish brings the best of both worlds: hearty, juicy steak and cozy, creamy pasta. It’s weeknight-friendly yet dinner-party worthy, and leftovers taste just as dreamy the next day.

What Cut of Steak Works Best for Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak?

When it comes to steak, not all cuts are created equal, especially for a recipe like this where tenderness matters. Ribeye is our top pick for its fat marbling and juicy texture, but sirloin or NY strip also work well. Whatever cut you choose, aim for about 1-inch thick slices so you get that perfect sear on the outside while keeping the inside tender.

Avoid super lean cuts like eye of round unless you’re marinating beforehand. A bit of fat equals a lot of flavor—and when you’re cooking in garlic butter, more is definitely more.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

This recipe is a flavor bomb, and each ingredient plays a key role in bringing the rich, zesty magic together. You don’t need anything fancy, just simple ingredients with bold personalities.

Rigatoni: This pasta is perfect for catching creamy sauces in every groove.
Steak: Ribeye or sirloin works beautifully, giving you rich flavor and tender bites.
Cajun seasoning: Brings heat and bold smoky flavor to the steak.
Garlic: Fresh cloves elevate the butter and sauce with aromatic depth.
Butter: Helps create that silky garlic sauce and gives the steak a golden sear.
Heavy cream: Makes the rigatoni sauce extra luxurious and creamy.
Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, cheesy sharpness to balance the richness.
Mozzarella cheese: Melts into the sauce for stretch and creaminess.
Olive oil: Used for searing the steak to perfection.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the pasta water and enhancing all other flavors.

Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni 2

How To Make the Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

Step 1: Boil the Rigatoni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak

While the pasta cooks, pat the steak dry and season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak for 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Remove from the pan and let it rest before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until the sauce becomes rich and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked rigatoni into the sauce until well coated. Add sliced steak on top or gently stir it into the pasta. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan sprinkled over the top.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni

This dish is best served piping hot, right after it’s finished. The sauce clings to the rigatoni beautifully when it’s fresh, and the steak stays tender and juicy. Plate it up with a bit of extra Parmesan or even a sprinkle of chopped parsley if you’re feeling fancy.

This recipe comfortably feeds 4 hungry people, or up to 6 if you’re serving with sides. It makes a great dinner centerpiece, especially for steak lovers who don’t mind getting a little indulgent with their pasta.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works too, just don’t overheat the steak.

What to Serve With Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is a must to mop up that cheesy Cajun sauce. Bonus points if it’s toasted with herbs.

Caesar Salad

The cool, crisp crunch of a Caesar salad brings balance and freshness to the richness of the steak and pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted broccoli with a little lemon zest is a simple veggie side that adds texture and color.

Creamy Coleslaw

Add a Southern twist with a cold, creamy coleslaw to contrast the warm Cajun spice.

Sautéed Green Beans

Lightly sautéed green beans with garlic or shallots make for a clean and simple side.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet, charred corn is a great seasonal add-on that pairs especially well with Cajun flavors.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Add a touch of sweetness and acidity with balsamic-glazed carrots to complement the savory depth of the dish.

Want More Steak and Pasta Ideas?

If this Cheesy Cajun Garlic Butter Steak with Creamy Rigatoni has you hungry for more savory, saucy creations, check out these indulgent recipes next:

Try the Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for another rich and meaty pasta dish.
The Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a quick, satisfying weeknight wonder.
Love cheese-loaded pasta? The Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce has your name written all over it.
Warm up with the ultra-comforting Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta, loaded with creamy flavor in every bite.
For something a little smoky and cozy, the One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is an easy, flavor-packed alternative.