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Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips

Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips

Turn weeknight dinner into a steakhouse‑meets‑Cajun pasta moment. Juicy, spice‑rubbed beef strips crown twirls of buttery linguine tossed in garlicky Cajun sauce, finished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon. It’s fast, indulgent, and wildly satisfying—perfect for easy dinner, quick weeknight meals, and “wow”‑worthy food ideas. If you’re hunting for easy recipe inspiration, dinner ideas, or a hearty yet simple crowd‑pleaser, this quick dinner checks every box for cozy comfort with a little kick.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dinner
Cuisine American, Cajun
Servings 4 servings
Calories 720 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large Skillet
  • Tongs
  • Colander
  • Chef's knife
  • Measuring spoons

Ingredients
  

Ingredients

  • 12 oz linguine
  • 1 lb beef sirloin, cut into strips
  • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning plus more to taste
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan optional, for serving

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook linguine until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water; drain.
  • Pat beef dry. Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Sear beef in a single layer, 2–3 minutes per side, until browned but still tender. Transfer to a plate.
  • Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet; when melted, stir in garlic and red pepper flakes for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add drained linguine to the skillet. Toss with lemon juice and splashes of reserved pasta water until glossy and well coated.
  • Return beef and any juices to the pan; toss gently. Finish with parsley and adjust Cajun seasoning to taste.
  • Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Slice beef against the grain and avoid overcrowding the pan for the best sear. For an even silkier finish, emulsify 2 tbsp extra butter with some pasta water right before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 720kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 38gFat: 36gSaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 980mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 180mgIron: 4.5mg
Keyword cajun pasta, dinner ideas, easy dinner, easy recipe, food ideas, garlic butter pasta, quick dinner, steak pasta, weeknight pasta
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