Bold, spicy, and rich with comfort—these Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce bring restaurant-quality flavor right to your dinner table. Perfectly seared steak bites coated in Cajun seasoning pair flawlessly with creamy, cheesy pasta that’s indulgent without being too heavy. This is the kind of meal that turns any ordinary weeknight into something worth celebrating.

The sauce is a lush blend of Parmesan and cream cheese with a hint of Cajun spice that clings to every bite of penne. It’s savory, creamy, and just the right amount of smoky, especially when it wraps around fork-tender steak tips. Whether you’re serving it up for family, date night, or treating yourself, this dish earns rave reviews every time.

What Kind of Steak Should I Use for Cajun Steak Tips?

You can use sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip for this dish. The key is choosing a cut that’s tender when quickly seared. Sirloin is lean and flavorful, while ribeye adds extra richness with its marbling. Whichever cut you choose, cut it into bite-sized cubes so it cooks fast and stays juicy.

Ingredients for the Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

Steak Tips – The star of the show. Use a well-marbled cut for maximum flavor and tenderness.

Penne Pasta – Its tube shape captures all the cheesy Cajun goodness, making each bite satisfying.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds sharp, nutty flavor to the sauce and thickens it beautifully.

Cream Cheese – Brings silky smoothness and tang that complements the Parmesan.

Heavy Cream – Gives the sauce that rich, creamy base we’re after.

Cajun Seasoning – Provides bold flavor and heat that wakes up the whole dish.

Garlic – Adds a savory, aromatic layer that’s essential to both the steak and the sauce.

Butter & Olive Oil – For searing the steak and making the sauce luscious and flavorful.

Fresh Parsley (optional) – For a pop of color and freshness to balance the richness.

Paprika or Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Sprinkle on top for extra kick and visual flair.

How To Make the Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak Tips

Pat the steak cubes dry with paper towels. Season generously with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear the steak tips in batches to avoid overcrowding, about 2-3 minutes per side, until a crust forms. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheesy Cajun Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add a bit more butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a low simmer. Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add Parmesan cheese and a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, stirring until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Toss the cooked penne into the sauce and stir to coat evenly. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the pasta. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Plate the creamy penne on one side and add the seared Cajun steak tips on the other. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a dash of red pepper flakes or paprika for a final touch. Serve hot and enjoy every spicy, cheesy bite.

Serving and Storing Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

This dish is best served hot, right after cooking when the sauce is at its creamiest and the steak is juicy and tender. Plate it family-style or in individual servings, making sure to keep the steak tips and pasta side by side so each bite can be balanced to taste.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk and warm gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain the creamy texture. For best results, reheat the steak separately to avoid overcooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! Sirloin is great, but ribeye or strip steak also work beautifully. You can even try tenderloin for an ultra-luxurious version.

You can use a store-bought blend or make your own. Look for one with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and thyme for the best flavor.

Can I make this recipe less spicy?

Absolutely. Just reduce the Cajun seasoning and skip the red pepper flakes. You can also stir in a little more cream or cheese to mellow the heat.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

Yes, mascarpone or a splash of sour cream can work in a pinch. Just be sure to adjust for tang and creaminess.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not ideal due to the creamy sauce—it may separate when reheated. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days from the fridge.

What sides go well with this?

A simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this rich and flavorful main dish.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you’re loving the rich, comforting vibe of these Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce, here are a few more pasta-packed meals you’ll want to try next:

Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for that Philly-inspired, cheesy-meaty combo.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli when you want protein and greens in one creamy dish.
One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta if you love quick prep with bold flavor.
Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo to double down on the Cajun steak pasta goodness.
Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne for a cozy veggie-forward option.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you’ll have it on hand the next time you need a knockout meal.

And when you make it, tell me how it turned out! Did you go heavy on the Cajun seasoning or keep it mild? Swap the steak for chicken? I want to hear all the delicious details.

Feel free to leave questions or tips in the comments—sharing your spin on the recipe helps everyone cook with more flavor and confidence.

You can also find daily inspiration and more of my recipes on Pinterest: Life with Jam on Pinterest

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce recipe brings bold spice, rich cheesy flavor, and perfectly seared steak together in one ultra-comforting dish. The creamy Cajun-Parmesan sauce wraps around every bite of pasta, balanced by juicy steak tips seared to perfection. It’s a one-plate wonder that’s ideal for weeknights, date nights, or impressing guests.

Instructions

1. Boil the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Season and Sear the Steak: Pat steak cubes dry. Toss with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak in batches, 2–3 minutes per side. Set aside.

3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add a small amount of butter and garlic. Cook 1 minute. Pour in cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in cream cheese until melted, then add Parmesan and extra Cajun seasoning. Stir until smooth.

4. Combine and Simmer: Add the cooked penne to the sauce. Stir and simmer 2–3 minutes until thickened and fully coated.

5. Serve and Garnish: Plate pasta and steak side by side. Top with parsley and red pepper flakes or paprika. Serve hot.