There is something truly irresistible about digging into a plate of Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips Recipe. This dish perfectly combines tender, juicy strips of beef with a luxurious, flavorful sauce that hugs every strand of spaghetti. The richness of garlic butter mingles with vibrant Cajun spices, creating a meal that is both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress friends, this recipe brings bold, creamy, and smoky flavors together in a genuinely unforgettable way that will have you reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to whip up this dish is a breeze because it calls for simple, carefully chosen ingredients that each play an essential role. From the creamy texture that the heavy cream brings to the bright kick of Cajun seasoning, every component is here to elevate your meal experience.
- 12 oz spaghetti: The perfect pasta base that holds the sauce beautifully with just the right bite.
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, sliced into strips: Tender, flavorful beef strips that add a hearty component.
- 3 tbsp butter: For that rich garlic butter sauce that’s utterly addictive.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: A fragrant punch that forms the backbone of the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds the creamy smoothness that makes the sauce luscious and indulgent.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: This cheesy note melts into the sauce, balancing heat and creaminess.
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning: The soul of this recipe — delivering heat and deep spices.
- ½ tsp paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and a vibrant color.
- ¼ tsp black pepper: Freshly ground for a slight, sharp edge.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For searing the beef to golden perfection.
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish): A fresh, colorful touch to finish the dish.
- Salt to taste: To bring all the flavors into harmony.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then add your spaghetti. Cooking the pasta until it’s al dente ensures that it has just the right firm texture to complement the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Don’t forget to reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining; this starchy water will help loosen the sauce later, making it silky and well-coated.
Step 2: Season the Beef Strips
While the pasta cooks, give your beef strips a well-deserved seasoning treatment with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of Cajun seasoning. This step is crucial because the beef absorbs these spices deeply, building layers of flavor that perfectly echo the sauce’s spicy notes.
Step 3: Sear the Beef Strips
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the beef strips. Cooking them until golden brown on each side seals in those juicy flavors, creating a satisfying texture contrast with the tender pasta. Once cooked to your preference, transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and toss in the minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant, about one minute — this gentle cooking releases garlic’s aromatic oils without bitterness, setting the stage for your sauce’s creamy base.
Step 5: Build the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it gently to a simmer. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, and black pepper. Let the sauce bubble softly for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and the cream to thicken slightly, creating that signature velvety texture.
Step 6: Add Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan and stir it until fully melted and smooth. This step enriches the sauce, adding a subtle nutty flavor that balances beautifully with the spice and cream elements, bringing harmony to the dish.
Step 7: Combine Spaghetti and Sauce
Return the drained spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together to coat every noodle with that luscious sauce. If the mixture feels too thick, slowly add reserved pasta water, stirring gently until you reach the perfect consistency that’s creamy but not heavy.
Step 8: Add Beef and Garnish
For the grand finale, nestle the seared beef strips on top of the creamy pasta, and sprinkle chopped parsley over everything for a fresh pop of green. For an extra cheesy finish, add a little more Parmesan if you like, then serve immediately while it’s hot and indulgent.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and an extra handful of Parmesan cheese on top brighten the dish visually and in flavor. You could also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a subtle zing that cuts through the richness, making every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This creamy, flavorful main pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette, which refreshes the palate. Roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or bell peppers, add a nice textural contrast and boost the meal’s vibrancy without overpowering the dish’s distinctive flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the spaghetti in individual shallow bowls topped with beef strips arranged like little flavor towers. Alternatively, twist the pasta into elegant nests and crown each with beef strips and parsley for a restaurant-worthy presentation that will impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from your creamy Cajun garlic butter spaghetti with beef strips recipe, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. They will stay good for up to 3 days, and the flavors tend to intensify overnight, making an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. After it cools, pack it tightly in freezer-safe containers or bags, separating the beef from the pasta if you prefer. It can be stored frozen for up to two months, perfect for when you want a delicious home-cooked meal without the fuss.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as slow reheating preserves the beef tenderness and prevents the pasta from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully here, you can use fettuccine, linguine, or even penne if you prefer. Just keep in mind that wider noodles might hold the creamy sauce differently.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour can work, but the sauce won’t be as rich. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream is a good alternative, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?
The Cajun seasoning adds a nice moderate heat with aromatic spices, but it’s not overpoweringly spicy. You can adjust the amount to suit your heat preference or even add a pinch of cayenne for extra kick.
Can I prepare the beef strips ahead of time?
You can slice and season the beef strips ahead, but it’s best to sear them fresh for optimal tenderness and flavor. If prepping early, store the seasoned beef covered in the fridge for up to a few hours before cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes! This Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips Recipe makes for excellent meal prep. Keep portions in separate containers to maintain freshness and reheat as directed for an easy, flavorful lunch or dinner during your busy week.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the rich, comforting joy of Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips Recipe. It’s a vibrant, satisfying meal that surprises and delights with each bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it one of your own favorites. Once you do, I promise it will become a staple in your recipe rotation for good reason — warm, indulgent, and utterly delicious.
Print
Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips is a flavorful and comforting pasta dish featuring tender seared beef strips in a rich, creamy Cajun-spiced sauce. Perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner, it combines the zest of Cajun seasoning with the smoothness of garlic butter and Parmesan cream for a satisfying and delicious meal.
Ingredients
Spaghetti
- 12 oz spaghetti
Beef and Seasoning
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak, sliced into strips
- Salt to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
Sauce and Cooking
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- Season the Beef: Season beef strips with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of Cajun seasoning to enhance flavor.
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a hot skillet. Sear the beef strips on each side until golden brown and cooked to your preference, then remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Make the Cajun Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Toss Spaghetti in Sauce: Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss well to coat. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed for desired consistency.
- Finish and Serve: Top the spaghetti with the seared beef strips. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve the dish hot for best flavor.
Notes
- Be sure not to overcook the spaghetti; al dente texture is preferred for the best bite.
- Use high-quality steak like sirloin or ribeye for tender, flavorful beef strips.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning amount depending on your spice preference.
- Reserved pasta water helps to adjust sauce consistency and helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
