Cajun Garlic Butter Steak has become my absolute go-to for a quick yet impressive weeknight dinner. I remember the first time I made this, the aroma of garlic and spicy Cajun seasoning filled my kitchen, making my stomach rumble with anticipation. My family was instantly hooked! It’s truly an easy Cajun garlic butter steak to whip up, delivering restaurant-quality flavor with minimal fuss. You get that perfectly seared steak with a rich, buttery sauce that just melts in your mouth. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cajun Garlic Butter Steak
- Incredible flavor explosion with spicy Cajun notes and rich garlic butter
- Remarkably quick prep time, perfect for busy weeknights
- A satisfying and protein-rich dinner option
- Surprisingly budget-friendly for a restaurant-quality meal
- A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that the whole family will adore
- This Garlic butter steak recipe is simple enough for beginners
- Enjoy the robust taste of Cajun cuisine with this easy Garlic butter steak recipe
- It’s a fantastic way to elevate your dinner routine
Ingredients for Cajun Garlic Butter Steak
Gathering these ingredients is the first step to an amazing Cajun garlic butter steak. You’ll need a good quality steak, like sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip, about 1 pound. For that signature flavor, grab 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning – this is key for that spicy kick. We also need 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper to enhance the steak’s natural flavors. For the steak itself, you’ll want 3 cloves garlic, crushed, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, and 1 tablespoon olive oil. For the creamy pasta, have 8 oz linguine pasta ready. You’ll also need 1 tablespoon butter for the sauce, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A little fresh parsley for garnish is optional but adds a nice touch. This combination makes for a truly delicious garlic butter steak with Cajun seasoning.
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a perfect sear for your steak. While the oven heats, pat your 1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or NY strip) completely dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a fantastic crust. Generously season both sides with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Let the steak sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes; this helps it cook more evenly.
- Step 2: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place the seasoned steak in the skillet. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side, depending on the thickness and your desired level of doneness. During the final minute of cooking, add 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and the 3 crushed garlic cloves to the pan. Tilt the skillet and use a spoon to baste the steak with the fragrant garlic butter. Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes. This resting period is vital for a juicy steak.
- Step 3: While the steak rests, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the 8 oz linguine pasta and cook according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Before draining, carefully reserve about ½ cup of the starchy pasta water. Drain the pasta well.
- Step 4: In a separate large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add the 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until they are wonderfully fragrant, but be careful not to burn them. Pour in the 1 cup heavy cream and stir in the 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to slightly thicken. This is the base for our creamy sauce, making this a truly delightful Cajun garlic butter steak recipe.
- Step 5: Gradually add the ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the simmering cream sauce, stirring constantly. Continue to stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Step 6: Add the cooked and drained linguine directly into the skillet with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce seems a bit too thick for your liking, add a small splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. This is a key step in our Cajun garlic butter steak recipe.
- Step 7: Slice the rested steak against the grain into thick, juicy pieces.
- Step 8: Serve the creamy linguine, topping it generously with the sliced Cajun garlic butter steak. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter from the steak skillet over the top for extra flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy this amazing Cajun garlic butter steak recipe!
Pro Tips for the Best Cajun Garlic Butter Steak
Elevate your steak game with these insider tips for a truly unforgettable meal:
- Always start with a steak at room temperature. This ensures it cooks evenly from edge to center, giving you that perfect sear without overcooking the inside.
- Don’t crowd the pan when searing. If your skillet isn’t large enough for the steak, cook it in batches to achieve a beautiful, golden-brown crust.
- Use fresh garlic for both the steak basting and the sauce. The aroma and flavor are so much more vibrant than pre-minced.
- For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to your Cajun seasoning blend.
What’s the secret to perfect Cajun Garlic Butter Steak?
The secret lies in a combination of high-quality steak, proper searing technique, and that irresistible garlic butter basting. Using the right garlic butter steak seasoning blend is also key for that authentic Cajun flavor.
Can I make Cajun Garlic Butter Steak ahead of time?
You can prep the steak by seasoning it and letting it sit at room temperature for up to 30 minutes before cooking. The pasta and sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated, but it’s best to sear the steak just before serving for optimal texture.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cajun Garlic Butter Steak?
Avoid overcooking the steak by using a meat thermometer for accuracy. Don’t skip resting the steak; it’s essential for juiciness. Also, be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing for the sauce.
Best Ways to Serve Cajun Garlic Butter Steak
This incredible Cajun garlic butter steak is a star on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of creamy Parmesan linguine, as the rich sauce beautifully complements the spicy steak. If you’re looking for a different carb option, consider serving this garlic butter steak with Cajun seasoning alongside roasted potatoes or a simple rice pilaf. For a lighter, fresher contrast, a side of steamed asparagus or a crisp green salad with a vinaigrette makes a perfect accompaniment. These combinations ensure a well-rounded and delicious dinner.
Nutrition Facts for Cajun Garlic Butter Steak
Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving of this delicious Cajun Garlic Butter Steak. This recipe delivers a hearty and flavorful meal, perfect for a satisfying dinner.
- Calories: 760
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
How to Store and Reheat Cajun Garlic Butter Steak
Properly storing your delicious Cajun Garlic Butter Steak ensures you can enjoy its amazing flavors later. Once the steak and pasta have cooled completely to room temperature, store them in airtight containers. For the best quality, refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking. Your leftovers should stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. This makes planning meals ahead a breeze, and you’ll have an easy Cajun garlic butter steak ready whenever a craving strikes.
When you’re ready to reheat, gently warm the pasta and steak on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring halfway through, until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can make the steak tough.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cajun Garlic Butter Steak
What makes this Cajun Garlic Butter Steak recipe so special?
The magic is in the balance! We combine a bold, spicy Cajun crust on the steak with a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce that coats tender linguine. It’s a flavor combination that’s incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to achieve at home, making it a standout dish.
How do I ensure the steak is perfectly cooked every time?
To master how to cook Cajun garlic butter steak, start by letting the steak come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before searing. This ensures even cooking. Use a meat thermometer – aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare. Don’t forget to let it rest for 10 minutes after searing!
Can I substitute the steak cut or pasta?
Absolutely! While sirloin, ribeye, or NY strip are fantastic, flank steak or even tenderloin work well. For the pasta, fettuccine, spaghetti, or even penne can be used. The key is the delicious Cajun garlic butter sauce that complements whatever you choose.
Is this dish very spicy?
The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning. Many blends have a good kick, but aren’t overwhelmingly hot. If you prefer a milder dish, use less Cajun seasoning or opt for a milder blend. For a spicy Cajun garlic butter steak, you can always add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix or a dash of hot sauce to the final dish.
Variations of Cajun Garlic Butter Steak You Can Try
While this Cajun garlic butter steak recipe is fantastic as is, don’t be afraid to get creative! You can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. For a truly spicy Cajun garlic butter steak, simply increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the steak rub. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could try pan-searing a leaner cut like flank steak and serving it with grilled vegetables instead of pasta. Another delicious variation is to swap the linguine for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb meal. You could also experiment with different herbs in the garlic butter sauce – a touch of thyme or rosemary can add a lovely aromatic twist to your garlic butter steak with Cajun seasoning.
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Cajun Garlic Butter Steak: 1 Amazing Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Indulge in this Cajun Garlic Butter Steak over Creamy Parmesan Linguine, a restaurant-worthy dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. It features a tender steak with a spicy Cajun crust, pan-seared and finished with a rich garlic butter sauce, served over silky linguine coated in a creamy Parmesan sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or NY strip)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for steak)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 1 tablespoon butter (for sauce)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Let the steak rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to ensure even cooking and a better crust.
- Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil. Sear the steak for 3–4 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. During the last minute of cooking, add 1 tablespoon of butter and the crushed garlic cloves. Baste the steak with the garlic butter. Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- While the steak rests, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest of the pasta.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Italian seasoning. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until the sauce has slightly thickened.
- Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring constantly until it is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked linguine to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Slice the rested steak against the grain.
- Plate the creamy linguine. Top with the sliced Cajun garlic butter steak. Drizzle any remaining garlic butter from the steak skillet over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese, as it melts smoother and provides a richer flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- Do not skip the steak resting time; it is crucial for keeping the steak juicy and tender.
- Add the reserved pasta water gradually to the sauce to achieve the desired creamy consistency without making it too thin.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Searing + Boiling
- Cuisine: American Fusion
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 760
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 170mg