When creamy garlic Parmesan meets bold Cajun spices and juicy seared steak, you know you’re in for a next-level comfort dish. This Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce is everything you crave after a long day: cheesy, spicy, savory, and satisfying.
The pasta is twirled in a rich garlic-Parmesan sauce that clings to every rotini spiral, while tender bites of Cajun-seasoned steak deliver smoky depth and juicy texture. It’s a restaurant-style meal that brings steakhouse vibes straight to your dinner table in under an hour.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta
This dish is a dream for anyone who loves fusion comfort food. The Cajun spice gives the steak a bold, smoky crust that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce. It’s a one-pan wonder (well, two if we’re being honest), making cleanup a breeze.
It also works for a variety of occasions: romantic dinners, family meals, or even meal prep for indulgent weekday lunches. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs and you’ve got a plate that looks as good as it tastes.
What Kind of Steak Should I Use?
Ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip all work beautifully in this recipe. You want a cut with good marbling so it stays juicy when seared. If you’re in a hurry or cooking on a budget, even flank or skirt steak can do the trick—just slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
The real magic is in the Cajun seasoning and that sizzling sear. Once that crust forms, any quality cut becomes a flavor powerhouse.
Ingredients for the Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce
To make this flavor-packed pasta dish, each ingredient plays an essential role in balancing the creamy richness with spicy Cajun flair. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ribeye or Sirloin Steak – Marbled for tenderness and rich flavor, these cuts sear beautifully and soak up the Cajun spices.
- Cajun Seasoning – Brings the heat and smoky Southern vibe. You can use store-bought or a homemade blend.
- Rotini Pasta – Twists hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly, ensuring each bite is fully coated.
- Heavy Cream – Forms the base of the sauce, lending it velvety texture and body.
- Fresh Garlic – Adds depth and warmth to the Parmesan sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese – Sharp, salty, and essential for that cheesy kick. Use fresh-grated for best results.
- Butter – Helps sear the steak and add a rich base to the sauce.
- Olive Oil – Combined with butter for steak searing, preventing burning and adding flavor.
- Salt & Pepper – Simple seasoning that brings everything to life.
- Parsley (optional) – Adds a pop of freshness and color.


How To Make the Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Step 1: Sear the Cajun Steak
Season your steak generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a hot skillet with a mix of butter and olive oil, sear the steak until golden brown on both sides and cooked to your desired doneness. Let it rest before slicing.
Step 2: Boil the Pasta
Cook the rotini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency later.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat and add a bit more butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer until slightly thickened. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked rotini into the garlic Parmesan sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until it’s silky and coats the pasta evenly.
Step 5: Add Steak and Garnish
Top the pasta with sliced Cajun steak and sprinkle fresh parsley for a final touch of brightness. Serve hot and enjoy that melty, spicy, savory goodness.
How to Serve and Store Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce
This pasta dish is rich, satisfying, and feeds up to 4 hungry adults comfortably. Serve it hot off the stove for the ultimate creamy experience.
If you’re planning leftovers, store any remaining pasta and steak separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The pasta keeps well for up to 3 days, while the steak is best eaten within 2 days for peak tenderness.
To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Reheat the steak gently to avoid overcooking, either in a pan on low or a quick zap in the microwave.
What to Serve With Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta?
Garlic Bread
Crispy, buttery, and perfect for scooping up any extra sauce on the plate.
Caesar Salad
A cool, crunchy contrast to the warm and creamy pasta.
Roasted Broccoli
Adds a fresh, earthy balance and slight crunch.
Grilled Asparagus
Pairs well with steak and adds a pop of green.
Sautéed Mushrooms
Savory and meaty, they echo the umami of the steak.
Tomato Cucumber Salad
Light and refreshing with a zesty vinaigrette.
Corn on the Cob
Sweetness plays nicely against the Cajun spice.
Want More Pasta Ideas with a Kick?
If this Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce had you going back for seconds, you’ll love these other flavor-loaded creations from NoraNosh:
- Try the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a hearty, indulgent dinner.
- The Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is a meat-lover’s dream come true.
- Feeling like something spicy? The Buffalo Chicken Lasagna brings the heat.
- For a comforting one-pan favorite, don’t miss the Creamy Beef and Shells.
- And if you’re craving a garlicky seafood twist, the Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna never disappoints.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit this creamy, spicy pasta dish whenever the craving hits.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go big on the Cajun heat or keep it mild? Any fun twists you added to the sauce?
I always enjoy hearing how you make these recipes your own. Don’t be shy—questions and tweaks welcome!
Explore a daily dose of flavor and find even more recipe inspiration on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest. It’s packed with comfort food, dinner ideas, and quick hits of kitchen creativity.

Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Ready to upgrade your dinner game with a bold and creamy dish that’ll wow the crowd? This Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce is the perfect fusion of comfort and spice. Featuring juicy Cajun-seared steak, tender rotini pasta, and a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce, it hits every note of indulgence and flavor. It’s ideal for quick weeknight meals, easy dinner ideas, or satisfying your steakhouse cravings at home. Whether you’re cooking for guests or meal-prepping for yourself, this dish delivers big-time on flavor and simplicity.
Ingredients
1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
8 oz rotini pasta
1 cup heavy cream
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. Season the steak with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet, then sear the steak on both sides until cooked to desired doneness. Let rest, then slice.
3. Cook rotini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream and let simmer. Stir in Parmesan until sauce thickens.
6. Add cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss well to coat. Use pasta water to loosen if needed.
7. Plate the pasta and top with sliced steak. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
For spicier results, use extra Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne.
Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and creates a smoother sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: easy recipe, dinner ideas, cheesy pasta, steak pasta, comfort food, creamy garlic sauce