Go Back
Close-up of Cajun Steak Pasta in a white bowl, showing the glossy texture of the orange sauce and charred steak edges.

Cajun Steak Pasta with Creamy Orange Sauce

This Cajun Steak Pasta features al dente rigatoni tossed in a vibrant orange cream sauce, topped with perfectly charred steak strips. A restaurant-quality dinner that is easy to make at home and full of bold, zesty flavor.
Print Recipe Pin for Later
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 845
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb Ribeye or Sirloin Steak 450g, room temperature
  • 1 lb Rigatoni Pasta 450g
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil 30ml
  • 3 tbsp Unsalted Butter 42g
  • 4 cloves Garlic minced
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream 480ml
  • 3 tbsp Cajun Seasoning 25g
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese 50g
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley chopped for garnish
  • 1 tsp Red Pepper Flakes to taste

Equipment

  • 1 Cast-Iron Skillet Best for searing steak
  • 1 Large pot For boiling pasta

Method
 

Prepare the Components
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook rigatoni until al dente (usually 1-2 minutes less than package instructions). Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  2. Pat steak dry and season. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak for 3-4 minutes per side until charred on the outside and medium pink (135°F/57°C) inside. Remove and rest.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and Cajun seasoning. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until vibrant orange and thickened. Stir in parmesan.
  4. Toss the cooked rigatoni into the sauce. Slice steak into strips and place on top. Garnish with parsley, red pepper flakes, and more parmesan.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer for perfect steak results.
If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time.