You know those nights when you crave something bold, creamy, and just a little indulgent? That’s exactly how this Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini was born in my kitchen.
One chilly Thursday, I had leftover sirloin, a half-bag of pasta, and a stubborn craving for something rich. I tossed in garlic, a little Cajun spice, and way too much cheddar and the result was pure magic.
It’s got everything you want in a weeknight dinner: tender bites of steak seared in garlicky butter, creamy cheddar sauce that hugs every rotini curve, and just enough heat to make you reach for a second bite.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Rich & Spicy Flavor: Cajun spice and garlic butter meet creamy cheddar pure comfort food fireworks.
- Quick to Make: From pan to plate in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
- Viral Texture Combo: Juicy steak chunks with velvety pasta sauce TikTok-worthy in every swirl.
- Versatile & Fun: Swap proteins, adjust spice, or use your favorite pasta shape.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Steak & Pasta:
- 1.5 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Cheddar Cream Sauce:
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese (extra melty goodness)
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Tools You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Pasta pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater
- Sharp knife and cutting board
How to Make Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini
- Cook the Pasta:
Bring salted water to a boil. Drop in the rotini and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside. - Season the Steak:
Pat steak pieces dry. Toss them in Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. - Sear the Steak:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add steak and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and caramelized. Remove and set aside. - Make the Garlic Butter Base:
Lower the heat slightly. Melt butter in the same pan, scraping up the tasty brown bits. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for about a minute until fragrant. - Build the Cheddar Cream Sauce:
Pour in heavy cream and add garlic powder. Stir gently as it simmers. Once slightly thickened, toss in cheddar and mozzarella. Mix until creamy and smooth. - Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta and steak back into the skillet. Toss until every rotini is coated in that spicy cheddar sauce. - Serve It Up:
Sprinkle with parsley, maybe a little more cheddar, and serve straight from the pan while it’s hot and bubbly.
What to Serve With It
- Roasted Garlic Bread: The perfect vessel for all that extra sauce.
- Simple Green Salad: Balances the richness beautifully.
- Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts: Crisp, quick, and full of contrast.
(Try pairing it with our Easy Roasted Garlic Bread or 15-Minute Air Fryer Veggies for a complete dinner vibe.)
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use Room-Temp Steak: Helps achieve that golden sear instead of gray edges.
- Don’t Rush the Garlic: Let it turn golden, not brown it adds buttery sweetness.
- Save Pasta Water: A splash can loosen the sauce perfectly if it thickens too much.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life.
Avoid microwaving for too long it can dry out the steak.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Absolutely! Ribeye, sirloin, or even NY strip all work beautifully in this recipe.
Can I make this pasta less spicy?
Yes, skip the red pepper flakes or reduce the Cajun seasoning for a milder version.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the sauce won’t be as rich. Add an extra handful of cheese to balance it out.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Swap the rotini for a gluten-free pasta brand you trust most hold up well in creamy sauces.
What cheese melts best in this dish?
Sharp cheddar gives depth, but mozzarella adds stretch combine both for the perfect sauce.
Can I prepare it ahead?
Yes! Cook the steak and sauce separately. Combine them right before serving for the best texture.
Conclusion
And there you have it Spicy Garlic Butter Steak with Cheddar Cream Rotini, a dinner that’s bold, creamy, and comfort-packed.
If you try this recipe, leave a comment or share your skillet moment on TikTok or Instagram using #EasyMealsToPrep.
Want more easy weeknight hits? Subscribe to our newsletter or check out our Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta next it’s just as quick and addictive.
