Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni

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Looking for a bold, flavorful twist on comfort food? This Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni delivers spicy, creamy, and savory all in one luxurious bowl. It blends perfectly seared beef strips with a velvety Cajun-spiced garlic butter sauce that hugs every piece of rigatoni. This dish isn’t just satisfying—it’s unforgettable.

The magic lies in the marriage of textures: the tender, juicy beef, the silky sauce, and the ridged rigatoni that soaks it all in. Add a pop of fresh herbs and a sprinkle of seasoning, and you’ve got a meal that’s restaurant-worthy but made right in your own kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni

• A spicy, buttery sauce that’s both rich and balanced
• Juicy, seasoned beef strips that add protein and depth
• Easy to make in under an hour
• Impressive enough for guests, simple enough for a weeknight
• Customizable spice levels to suit your taste

It’s a full-flavored experience that hits every craving from creamy to zesty.

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Can I Use Rigatoni Instead of Linguine?

Absolutely—in fact, rigatoni is preferred here. Its ridged surface and tube shape are perfect for holding onto the garlic butter sauce and tiny bits of seasoning. While linguine can work in a pinch, rigatoni brings a more substantial bite and texture to stand up to the rich Cajun flavor and hearty beef. If you’re a pasta purist, don’t be afraid to experiment with penne or ziti either.

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Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni

This recipe is built on bold, savory, and spicy flavors with a creamy touch. Here’s what you need and why each ingredient earns its place:

• Rigatoni Pasta: Its ridges hold onto the garlic butter and Cajun seasoning perfectly.
• Beef Sirloin or Ribeye Strips: Tender, juicy, and full of flavor when seared.
• Garlic: Infuses the butter with bold, aromatic flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: The base of the sauce, creating that silky, rich texture.
• Heavy Cream: Adds creaminess that balances the Cajun spice.
• Cajun Seasoning: A smoky, spicy blend that gives this dish its Southern kick.
• Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the sauce for added depth and creaminess.
• Olive Oil: Helps sear the beef to a golden-brown crust.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds color and a fresh herbal note to finish.

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How To Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook rigatoni until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season beef strips with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Cajun seasoning. Sear in batches until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and remaining Cajun seasoning. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in grated parmesan until melted.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add cooked rigatoni and seared beef strips into the sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated and heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, spicy bite!

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How to Serve and Store Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni

This dish is rich and filling, making it perfect as a standalone meal or a centerpiece in a Southern-inspired dinner spread.

Serving Size: This recipe feeds 4 hungry people or 5–6 moderate servings. It’s best served hot right after tossing everything in the sauce so the rigatoni stays coated and the beef is juicy.

Storing Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. The beef remains tender if you warm it gently over low heat.

Freezer Friendly? Yes—with a tweak. Freeze without the cream sauce, then remake the sauce fresh and combine when reheating for best texture.

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What to Serve With Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni

Looking to elevate your meal? These sides complement the boldness of the dish beautifully:

Creamy Coleslaw

The cool, crunchy contrast tames the spice and adds freshness.

Garlic Breadsticks

Crispy edges and soft centers make them ideal for scooping up leftover sauce.

Cajun Roasted Vegetables

Toss zucchini, bell peppers, and onions with Cajun seasoning and roast until caramelized.

Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Peppery greens and tangy dressing balance the richness of the pasta.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet, smoky, and buttery—a Southern classic that fits the vibe.

Baked Mac and Cheese

Go full comfort-mode with a creamy side that echoes the cheesy tones.

Fried Okra

Crunchy, golden bites that give a nod to Southern roots.

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Craving More Bold Pasta Dishes?

If you’re hooked on this Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Rigatoni, don’t miss out on more fiery, creamy, and flavor-packed pasta recipes from the NoraNosh kitchen:

• Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Roasted Peppers for more spicy richness with a poultry twist.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna if seafood is your go-to indulgence.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce when you’re craving something beefy and cheesy.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for a one-pot comfort food fix.
• Creamy Sausage Alfredo Pasta with smoky sausage and a garlicky white sauce.

These pasta recipes are your go-to lineup for bold flavor and easy prep.

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Tried this one with ribeye or added shrimp? Share your tweaks in the comments—I love seeing how you make it your own.

And if you’re after more creamy, bold, and satisfying recipes like this one, head over to NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest for a daily dose of inspiration!

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