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Indulgent Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine with Tender Beef Strips Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 88 reviews
  • Author: Melanie
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This indulgent Cajun Garlic Butter Linguine features tender, thinly sliced beef strips seared to perfection and tossed in a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce seasoned with Cajun spices. Combining linguine pasta with a luscious sauce made from butter, heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, this dish delivers a flavorful, comforting meal perfect for a quick yet impressive dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz Linguine Pasta (Substitute with fettuccine or pappardelle if unavailable)

Beef

  • 1 lb Flank Steak or Sirloin Steak (Tender cuts sliced thinly for quick cooking)

Seasonings and Oil

  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Used to sear the beef)
  • 1 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (Adjust to taste for desired heat level)
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Pepper

Sauce

  • 4 tbsp Butter (Creates a rich and silky sauce base)
  • 4 cloves Garlic (Fresh minced garlic contributes depth and aroma)
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream (Provides body to the sauce)
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Offers salty umami to finish the dish)
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (Enhances flavor and adds a bright, herbal touch)


Instructions

  1. Boil the Linguine: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the linguine pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Season the Steak: Slice the flank or sirloin steak thinly against the grain. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper over the meat, ensuring each piece is well coated.
  3. Sear the Beef: Heat a large skillet over high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once shimmering, add the seasoned beef strips and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and keep warm.
  4. Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter, scraping up any browned bits. Allow it to melt completely.
  5. Add Garlic: Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Avoid burning the garlic.
  6. Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring gently. Allow to simmer for 2 minutes until thickened.
  7. Toss in the Linguine: Add drained linguine into the skillet with the sauce. Toss vigorously to coat evenly.
  8. Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet, stirring to incorporate fully into the sauce.
  9. Add the Beef and Parsley: Return the seared beef to the skillet with pasta and sauce. Toss gently with chopped parsley for freshness.
  10. Serve and Garnish: Transfer to serving plates, sprinkle with additional parsley and Parmesan, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Use thinly sliced flank or sirloin steak for quick and even cooking.
  • Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to control the heat level.
  • Do not overcook the garlic to avoid a bitter taste.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances flavor better than pre-grated.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy sauce at its best consistency.