Lorenzo Devereaux
Imagine twirling your fork into a bed of silky linguine coated in a rich Cajun-spiced garlic butter sauce, only to discover tender, juicy strips of beef hidden within each bite. This dish takes the comfort of pasta night and elevates it with bold Southern flavors and a luscious, buttery finish.
Perfect for weeknight indulgence or a date-night showstopper, Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine delivers spice, creaminess, and hearty satisfaction in one bowl. The seared beef strips lock in savory juices, while the pasta clings to every drop of garlicky, pepper-kissed sauce.
What Kind of Beef Should I Use for Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine?
For this recipe, opt for tender cuts like sirloin, ribeye, or beef tenderloin. These cuts stay juicy and flavorful when quickly seared. Avoid tougher cuts that require long cooking times, as the magic here comes from high-heat caramelization paired with the creamy Cajun butter sauce.
Ingredients for Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips
- Linguine pasta – the perfect surface to soak up buttery sauce.
- Tender beef strips – choose high-quality cuts for melt-in-your-mouth bites.
- Cajun seasoning – brings warmth and depth with paprika, cayenne, and herbs.
- Butter – the heart of the sauce, adding richness and gloss.
- Garlic – fresh cloves for bold aroma and flavor.
- Heavy cream – balances spice with silky smoothness.
- Parmesan cheese – for nutty, salty complexity.
- Spinach – adds a pop of freshness and color.
- Olive oil – helps sear the beef to perfection.
- Salt and pepper – to enhance every element.
How To Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips
Step 1: Cook the Linguine
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Beef
Pat the beef strips dry with paper towels. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear beef strips for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Base
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Pour in heavy cream and sprinkle in extra Cajun seasoning to taste. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens slightly. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked linguine directly into the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Use reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Step 6: Add the Beef and Serve
Return the beef strips to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them in the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for color.
Serving and Storing Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips
Serve this pasta immediately while the sauce is silky and the beef is still juicy. A sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley on top adds brightness and a restaurant-worthy finish. If storing, let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to revive the sauce.
What to Serve With Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine?
Garlic Bread with a Twist
Crusty bread brushed with garlic butter and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning.
Crisp Green Salad
Light mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
Roasted Parmesan Green Beans
Adds a crunchy, salty vegetable side.
Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup
Pairs beautifully with the spice and butteriness of the pasta.
Grilled Asparagus with Lemon
Bright, fresh, and slightly smoky.
Classic Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil for a refreshing counterbalance.
Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta
Sweetness and tang to complement the Cajun heat.
Want More Pasta Ideas with a Cajun Kick?
If this Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips had you swooning, you might fall in love with these other pasta creations too:
- Spicy Cajun Chicken and Linguine in One Pan Wonder for a weeknight-friendly heat fest.
- One Pot Cheesy Mozzarella Cajun Steak Pasta Fest when you want melty cheese and Cajun spice.
- Ultimate Cajun Mozzarella Chicken Ranch Pasta for a creamy, zesty twist.
- Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta Recipe that’s perfect for when time is short but cravings are high.
- Smoky Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta for that irresistible smoky edge.
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Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips
Equipment
- Large pot
- 12-inch skillet
- Tongs
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 oz linguine
- 1 lb sirloin beef, cut into thin strips
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning, divided
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups baby spinach, lightly packed
- 0.5 cup reserved pasta cooking water, as needed
- 1 tbsp lemon juice, optional
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes, optional
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for serving
Instructions
- Bring Water to a Boil: Salt a large pot of water and bring to a rolling boil. Cook linguine until al dente; reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- Season the Beef: Pat beef dry and toss with 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Sear to Caramelize: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear beef in two batches, 2–3 minutes per side, until browned. Transfer to a plate.
- Build the Garlic‑Butter Base: Reduce heat to medium; add butter, then garlic. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in heavy cream and remaining 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning (and red pepper flakes if using). Simmer 2–3 minutes, then melt in Parmesan.
- Add Greens & Pasta: Wilt in spinach. Add linguine and toss, loosening with splashes of reserved pasta water as needed.
- Finish & Serve: Return beef and juices to the pan, add lemon juice if desired, adjust seasoning, and serve with parsley and extra Parmesan.