Smoky, creamy, and downright crave-worthy—this Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips is a spicy, saucy twist on comfort food that will blow your weeknight dinner routine out of the water. Perfectly seared beef strips rest on a bed of spaghetti tossed in a luscious Cajun cream sauce kissed with garlic butter and bold seasoning. Every forkful is silky, rich, and filled with just the right amount of heat.

It’s a one-pan masterpiece that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply treating yourself, this pasta checks every box: tender beef, aromatic Cajun spices, and creamy garlic-laced sauce clinging to every strand of spaghetti.

What Cut of Beef Should I Use for the Beef Strips?

You want a cut that cooks quickly and stays tender. Ribeye or sirloin are excellent choices—well-marbled and flavorful when seared hot. For a leaner option, flank steak or skirt steak sliced against the grain also works well. Just avoid tough cuts like chuck unless you’re slow-cooking them separately.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips

Spaghetti: The pasta base that soaks up the creamy, spiced sauce.

Beef Strips (Ribeye, Sirloin, or Flank): Sear for juicy, flavorful bites that rest perfectly on top.

Cajun Seasoning: Brings smoky, spicy depth to both the meat and the sauce.

Heavy Cream: The base for a velvety, rich sauce.

Garlic (Minced): Infuses every bite with bold, savory warmth.

Butter: Adds luxurious richness and flavor.

Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the sauce for sharp, creamy balance.

Olive Oil: For searing the beef and sautéing the garlic.

Salt & Black Pepper: Enhances all the other flavors.

Fresh Parsley (optional): For a fresh herb finish and a pop of color.

How To Make the Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips

Step 1: Prep the Beef

Slice your steak into thin strips against the grain. Pat dry and season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef strips in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan) for 1–2 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti

In a large pot, boil salted water and cook spaghetti until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Step 4: Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet used for the beef, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in Cajun seasoning, followed by heavy cream. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then stir in parmesan cheese until smooth and melty.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water.

Step 6: Top with Beef and Serve

Plate the creamy spaghetti and top with seared beef strips. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra parmesan if desired.

Serving and Storing Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips

Serve this dish hot and fresh right after tossing the pasta in the sauce. For presentation, pile the spaghetti high in a bowl or plate and neatly layer the seared beef strips on top. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan to make it feel extra special.

If you have leftovers, store the pasta and beef separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce. The beef is best reheated quickly to avoid overcooking.

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips?

Garlic Bread or Cheddar Biscuits

Perfect for soaking up every bit of that creamy, spicy sauce.

Caesar or Arugula Salad

Fresh greens with a crisp vinaigrette or creamy Caesar dressing lighten up the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

The char and crunch pair well with the Cajun flavors.

Creamed Spinach

For a double-creamy side dish, spinach works beautifully next to beef.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet corn balances the spice with a buttery crunch.

Crispy Fried Okra

A Southern-style side that adds texture and fried goodness.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Add earthy flavor with mushrooms cooked in garlic butter or soy glaze.

Red Wine or Cajun Lemonade

Pair with a bold red wine or a tangy lemonade to complement the heat.

Want More Spicy Comfort Food Recipes?

If this Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips made your dinner unforgettable, try these other bold and comforting dishes from the blog: