Creamy Cajun Butter Tender: 1 Dish 35 Min

Name: Creamy Cajun Butter Tender: 1 Dish 35 Min
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb Sirloin Steak, thinly sliced; 8 oz Penne Pasta; 4 tbsp Butter; 1 cup Heavy Cream; 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese; 4 cloves Garlic, minced; 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning; 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional); Salt and Black Pepper to taste; 1 tbsp Olive Oil; Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish)

by Jannet Lisa

26 de August de 2025

---Advertisement---

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Creamy Cajun Butter Tender has become my absolute go-to for a weeknight meal that feels incredibly special. I remember the first time I tried it; the aroma of garlic and spice filled my kitchen, making my mouth water instantly. That rich, buttery sauce coating perfectly seared steak and tender pasta was pure comfort. If you’re looking for a satisfying and flavorful dish without a lot of fuss, this Cajun Butter Tender Steak recipe is it. It’s quick, easy, and delivers big on taste. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Butter Tender

I’m obsessed with this dish, and I know you will be too! Here’s why:

The flavor is out of this world – a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory.
It’s incredibly quick, with prep time under 15 minutes.
Dinner on the table in about 35 minutes total, perfect for busy nights.

This Spicy Cajun Butter Steak is surprisingly budget-friendly, using simple ingredients.
It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters adore.
You get that amazing Spicy Cajun Butter Steak flavor without a lot of fuss.

It’s a satisfying one-skillet meal, meaning less cleanup!

Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Butter Tender

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this incredible dish. You’ll need:

1 lb Sirloin Steak, thinly sliced – for the *tender steak with Cajun butter sauce*

8 oz Penne Pasta – or your favorite short pasta shape
4 tbsp Butter – the base for our rich sauce
1 cup Heavy Cream – for that luscious, creamy texture

1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese – adds a salty, nutty depth
4 cloves Garlic, minced – essential for aromatic flavor
2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning – the heart of the flavor profile, providing warmth and spice

1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – for an extra kick of heat
Salt and Black Pepper to taste – to enhance all the flavors
1 tbsp Olive Oil – for searing the steak

Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish) – adds a pop of color and freshness

How to Make Creamy Cajun Butter Tender

Step 1: First, let’s prep the star of our dish. Season the thinly sliced sirloin steak with salt, black pepper, and half of your Cajun seasoning. This initial seasoning helps the flavors really penetrate the meat for the best Cajun Butter Tender recipe.
Step 2: Get your pasta cooking according to the package directions. While that’s bubbling away, you’ll want to drain it, but be sure to save about half a cup of that starchy pasta water. It’s a secret weapon for getting the sauce just right.

Step 3: Now, let’s get that skillet ready for searing. Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to get a nice sear on the steak quickly.
Step 4: Add the seasoned steak to the hot skillet. Sear it for just 1-2 minutes per side until it’s beautifully browned. We’re not cooking it through, just giving it a gorgeous crust. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside for later.
Step 5: Add the remaining butter to the same skillet. Once it’s melted and shimmering, toss in the minced garlic. Cook for about a minute until it’s wonderfully fragrant – be careful not to burn it!

Step 6: Stir in the rest of your Cajun seasoning and the optional red pepper flakes. Let them toast for a moment in the butter, releasing all those amazing aromas. This is where the magic starts for this Easy Cajun Butter Steak recipe.
Step 7: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Watch as it starts to bubble and thicken slightly.
Step 8: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and coats the back of a spoon. It should be wonderfully thick and creamy.

Step 9: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the luscious sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated. If your sauce seems a bit too thick, now’s the time to add a splash of that reserved pasta water until you achieve your desired consistency.
Step 10: Finally, return the seared steak strips back into the skillet with the pasta and sauce. Give it a final toss to combine everything beautifully.
Step 11: Serve your magnificent Creamy Cajun Butter Tender immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Creamy Cajun Butter Tender: 1 Dish 35 Min - Creamy Cajun Butter Tender - additional detail

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Cajun Butter Tender

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that really elevate this dish. Follow these tips for guaranteed success!

Don’t overcook the steak! Sear it quickly for a tender bite – it will finish cooking in the sauce.

Use good quality Cajun seasoning; it makes a huge difference in the overall flavor profile.
Always reserve pasta water. It’s the golden ticket to achieving the perfect sauce consistency every time.
Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the steak for a beautiful sear.

What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Cajun Butter Tender?

The real secret lies in properly searing the steak and using reserved pasta water to emulsure the sauce. This creates a luxurious, cohesive Creamy Cajun Steak pasta that’s simply divine. For more on emulsification techniques, check out this guide to pan sauces.

Can I make Creamy Cajun Butter Tender ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can definitely prep the components ahead. Cook the pasta and sear the steak separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat them gently in the skillet with the sauce before combining.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Cajun Butter Tender?

Avoid overcooking the steak by searing it quickly. Also, don’t skip reserving the pasta water – it’s crucial for getting the sauce consistency just right. And remember, don’t boil the heavy cream; a gentle simmer is all you need.

Best Ways to Serve Creamy Cajun Butter Tender

This dish is so versatile, it’s perfect for any occasion. Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve this incredible Cajun Butter pasta skillet creation:

Enjoy it as is! The rich sauce and tender steak make it a complete meal on its own.
Pair it with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness cuts through the richness beautifully.

For an extra touch, serve with some crusty garlic bread to sop up every last bit of that amazing sauce.

Creamy Cajun Butter Tender: 1 Dish 35 Min - Creamy Cajun Butter Tender - additional detail

Nutrition Facts for Creamy Cajun Butter Tender

This delicious Cajun Butter Tender recipe is packed with flavor, and here’s a look at what you can expect per serving:

Calories: 750
Fat: 45g
Saturated Fat: 25g

Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Creamy Cajun Butter Tender

This delicious Creamy Cajun Butter Tender is best enjoyed fresh, but I know life happens! If you have leftovers, don’t worry. First, allow the pasta dish to cool completely before storing. This usually takes about an hour. Once cooled, transfer the leftovers into an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you’re ready to reheat, the best way to preserve the creamy texture of the sauce, similar to how you’d reheat a good Cajun Butter Steak sauce recipe, is on the stovetop. Gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if it seems dry, until heated through. You can also microwave it, but stir halfway through for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Cajun Butter Tender

What is Creamy Cajun Butter Tender?

Creamy Cajun Butter Tender is a flavorful pasta dish featuring tender strips of steak coated in a rich, spicy Cajun butter sauce. It’s a popular one-skillet meal known for its bold flavors and satisfying texture, combining pasta, steak, and a creamy, spiced sauce.

Can I substitute chicken for steak in this recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is super adaptable. You can easily swap the sirloin steak for chicken breast or even shrimp. If using chicken, you’ll want to sear it similarly to the steak, ensuring it’s cooked through. This makes for a fantastic Creamy Cajun chicken recipe or a delightful seafood pasta dish.

How do I make it less spicy?

To dial down the heat, simply reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning you use and omit the optional red pepper flakes entirely. You can also use a milder Cajun blend. If you’re aiming for a less spicy but still flavorful dish, consider a milder, herb-forward blend, or even a touch of smoked paprika for color and depth without the heat.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, adding vegetables is a wonderful way to boost flavor and nutrition! Consider sautéing some bell peppers and onions with the garlic, or stir in some spinach or broccoli florets towards the end of cooking. This makes it even more of a complete meal, and you could even create a variation like a Creamy Parmesan Cajun Steak with added veggies.

Variations of Creamy Cajun Butter Tender You Can Try

This dish is so adaptable, you can easily switch things up to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas I love:

Creamy Cajun Chicken Recipe: Swap the sirloin steak for chicken breast. Slice it thinly and sear it just like the steak. It cooks up just as deliciously, giving you a wonderful Spicy Cajun Butter Chicken Tender.
Seafood Twist: For a change, try using shrimp instead of steak. Add the shrimp in the last few minutes of cooking the sauce, as they cook very quickly.
Vegetarian Delight: Omit the steak altogether and load up on vegetables! Sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms would be fantastic additions. You could even add some chickpeas for extra protein.

Spicy Kick Upgrade: If you love extra heat, try adding a diced jalapeño along with the garlic, or increase the red pepper flakes in the sauce. This really amps up the flavor for a truly Spicy Cajun Butter Steak experience.