Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips

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Rich, smoky, and luxuriously creamy — this Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips is the kind of dish that will steal the spotlight at any dinner table. Imagine a bed of perfectly cooked spaghetti wrapped in a velvety garlic butter sauce spiked with Cajun heat, topped with juicy, seared beef strips that are caramelized on the outside and tender pink on the inside. Every forkful is an indulgent harmony of spice, cream, and savory depth.

This isn’t your typical weeknight pasta. It’s bold, beautiful, and bursting with flavor. The garlic butter adds a silky richness that coats every strand, while the Cajun seasoning brings the perfect kick to balance the creaminess. Finished with a generous shower of chopped parsley and a drizzle of those steak juices? This is comfort food at its most elevated.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips

• One-pan wonder: You’ll only need a couple of pans, making clean-up a breeze.
• Restaurant-level flavor at home: Tastes like a steakhouse-meets-Italian bistro — without the hefty bill.
• Customizable heat: Dial the spice level up or down depending on your preference.
• Perfect for any occasion: Ideal for a cozy night in, dinner with guests, or even a date-night treat.
• Loaded with protein: Between the beef and the creamy sauce, this meal is both satisfying and energizing.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Their Importance)

To achieve that luscious, creamy Cajun pasta paired with perfectly seared beef strips, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Cast Iron or Stainless Steel Skillet: For achieving that golden crust on the beef strips — cast iron retains high heat and sears meat beautifully.
• Large Saucepan or Pasta Pot: Ideal for boiling the spaghetti evenly and quickly.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping the beef strips and tossing the pasta without breaking it.
• Fine Mesh Strainer or Colander: Drains pasta while keeping the residual heat to help sauce stick better.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: A sharp knife ensures clean slices of beef and precise prep of garlic and herbs.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups: For consistency in flavor, especially with spices and cream.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Helps mix the sauce gently without scraping your pan.

Equipped with the right tools, your prep and cooking will feel smooth and satisfying — setting the stage for that creamy, rich finish.

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Preparation Tips

• Bring the steak to room temperature before cooking. This helps with even searing and avoids a cold center.
• Salt your pasta water generously — it should taste like the sea. This is the only chance to season the pasta itself.
• Undercook your pasta slightly before adding it to the sauce. It will finish cooking as it soaks up the creamy Cajun goodness.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing beef — work in batches if needed to avoid steaming the meat.
• Use fresh garlic instead of powder. Its boldness shines in the butter and gives the sauce real depth.
• Reserve some pasta water — it helps loosen the sauce and bind it to the spaghetti.
• Rest the steak for 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps those flavorful juices inside the meat.
• Add cream slowly and stir constantly to avoid curdling and maintain a smooth texture.

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Ingredients for This Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips

For the Beef Strips:

• 1 lb (450g) sirloin steak or ribeye, trimmed and sliced into thick strips
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional for extra flavor boost)

For the Spaghetti & Sauce:

• 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1–2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water (optional, for thinning the sauce)
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• A squeeze of fresh lemon juice (to brighten the richness)
• Red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
• Diced sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed bell peppers (for added texture and color)

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Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until just al dente according to package instructions (usually 8–10 minutes). Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

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Step 2: Season and Sear the Beef Strips

While the pasta cooks, pat the beef strips dry with paper towels. Season them with Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a hot cast iron or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef strips in a single layer for 2–3 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms. Remove from heat and let them rest on a plate, covered loosely with foil.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet (don’t clean it — those beef drippings are pure flavor!), lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30–45 seconds until fragrant, not browned.

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Step 4: Create the Creamy Cajun Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Add Cajun seasoning, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce. If it becomes too thick, add some reserved pasta water a splash at a time to loosen it up.

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Step 5: Toss in the Spaghetti

Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce. Use tongs to gently toss and coat every strand evenly in the creamy Cajun garlic butter mixture. Let it sit on low heat for 1–2 minutes so the pasta absorbs some of the sauce.

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Step 6: Slice and Serve the Beef

Slice the rested beef strips across the grain for maximum tenderness. Plate the creamy spaghetti, and top generously with the sliced beef. Spoon over any remaining pan juices. Garnish with chopped parsley and, if desired, an extra sprinkle of Parmesan or red pepper flakes.

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Notes

• Choose the right cut of beef: Ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip all work wonderfully. The key is a well-marbled cut that stays juicy when seared.
• Balance the Cajun spice: Not all Cajun seasonings are created equal—some are salt-heavy, others extra spicy. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your liking.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly into the sauce.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the skillet: When searing beef, give the strips room. If packed tightly, they’ll steam instead of sear, and you’ll miss out on that irresistible crust.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic cooks fast—keep a close eye when sautéing in butter. Once it turns golden, you’re moments away from bitterness.
• Overcooking the pasta: Remember it will cook a little more once added to the sauce. Pull it off the stove while it’s still slightly firm.
• Not resting the steak: Cutting the beef too soon will release all those flavorful juices. A 5-minute rest locks in moisture and tenderness.
• Skipping the pasta water: This starchy water is your best friend for emulsifying and loosening the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Using cold cream: If the cream is too cold, it may curdle when added to a hot pan. Let it sit at room temperature while prepping.
• Over-salting: Cajun seasoning and Parmesan both add salt. Always taste before adding more.
• Ignoring pan flavor: The browned bits left from searing beef add richness to the sauce—deglaze with a splash of pasta water or even a little broth to capture every bit.

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

This rich, indulgent pasta pairs beautifully with lighter sides or vibrant contrasts. Here are some excellent options to round out your meal:

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread or Cheesy Toast

A classic side that’s perfect for soaking up that creamy Cajun sauce. Go with homemade garlic butter on toasted baguette slices or cheesy sourdough for an extra punch.

2. Crisp Green Salad

Think arugula, spinach, or mixed greens tossed in a zesty lemon vinaigrette. The brightness balances the richness of the pasta.

3. Steamed or Roasted Asparagus

Asparagus adds a slightly bitter crunch that cuts through the cream and complements the Cajun spice.

4. Grilled Zucchini or Eggplant

Charred vegetables with olive oil and herbs are light and earthy, adding texture and smokiness to your plate.

5. Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Roasting broccoli with a bit of garlic and Parmesan makes a side that’s crisp, nutty, and never boring.

6. Corn on the Cob (Cajun-style)

Grill or boil corn and slather it with butter, Cajun spices, and lime — echoing the Southern flavor in the pasta.

7. Tomato-Cucumber Salad

A refreshing salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, and a tangy vinaigrette is cooling and vibrant against the rich main dish.

8. Chardonnay or Sparkling Water with Lime

If you’re pairing drinks, a chilled white wine like Chardonnay cuts through the creaminess, while sparkling water with citrus keeps things fresh.

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Storage Instructions

This dish holds up surprisingly well for leftovers — if you can resist eating it all in one go! Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool fully before sealing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
• Reheating: Warm it gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop with a splash of milk, cream, or reserved pasta water to rehydrate the sauce. Microwaving works too — stir halfway through to distribute the heat evenly.
• Freezing: While it’s possible to freeze the pasta, the creamy sauce may split when thawed. If you plan to freeze, undercook the pasta slightly and store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 1 month. Reheat gently and stir well to re-emulsify the sauce.

Pro tip: Store the beef strips separately if you can — this helps maintain their texture when reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~720
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 58g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Cholesterol: 110mg
• Sodium: 740mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this dish less spicy?

Absolutely! Just reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a mild blend. You can also balance heat with a bit more cream or a dash of honey to soften the kick.

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2. What cut of beef works best?

Ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip are top picks. Look for well-marbled cuts — they stay juicy and tender when seared. Avoid tough cuts unless you’re marinating ahead of time.

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3. Can I use a different pasta?

Definitely. Fettuccine, linguine, or even penne all work well. Just make sure to adjust cooking time accordingly.

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4. Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes. Swap out heavy cream with coconut cream or a barista-style oat milk for a dairy-free version. Use nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan as a cheese alternative.

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5. How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and double-check your Cajun seasoning blend — some may contain hidden gluten or thickeners. Everything else is naturally gluten-free.

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6. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Of course! Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions. Sauté them right after searing the beef or fold them into the sauce.

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7. What should I do if my sauce is too thick?

Add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk and stir gently until it reaches your desired consistency. Heating it slowly helps prevent curdling.

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8. Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the beef and cook the pasta ahead. Store both separately and make the sauce fresh when you’re ready to eat. Reheating everything together with a bit of liquid works well.

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Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Beef Strips is the kind of indulgent, flavor-packed meal that delivers on every level — comfort, spice, and pure satisfaction. It’s surprisingly simple to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to impress whether you’re feeding the family or hosting friends. Once you try it, it might just become your go-to for weeknight cravings and weekend showstoppers alike.

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