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.
Ingredients
1 pound steak tips (sirloin, ribeye, or strip), cut into cubes
10 ounces penne pasta
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon salt (to taste)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter (plus extra for sauce)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
4 ounces cream cheese
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes or smoked paprika (optional)
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.
Notes
Let the steak rest before serving to keep it juicy.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, creamier sauce.
Don’t overcook the penne—al dente helps it hold up to the rich sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 685
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
Keywords: steak pasta, creamy Cajun, cheesy penne, weeknight dinner