Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

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When you’re craving bold flavor and creamy comfort in one dish, this Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce delivers all that and more. Juicy, spice-rubbed steak tips seared to perfection pair up with a velvety cheese sauce that hugs every bite of penne pasta. It’s a hearty, comforting dinner that’s as perfect for weeknight indulgence as it is for weekend show-off meals.

The Cajun seasoning brings smoky heat that cuts through the richness of the parmesan cream sauce, balancing the dish beautifully. Whether you’re a pasta fanatic or a steak lover, this combo will satisfy both cravings in one satisfying bowl. Top it off with fresh parsley and a crack of black pepper, and you’ve got yourself a serious plate of comfort food.

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

Sirloin is our favorite for this recipe because it’s lean, tender, and cooks quickly without drying out. But if you’re after a more decadent bite, ribeye tips or New York strip cubes bring in that marbled, juicy goodness. The key is to cut the steak into even, bite-sized chunks so they sear evenly in the pan.

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Ingredients for the Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

Steak Tips – Choose a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye, and cube it for quick searing.

Cajun Seasoning – A bold spice blend that delivers that signature smoky, peppery flavor to the steak.

Olive Oil & Butter – Olive oil for the sear, and butter for richness and flavor.

Garlic – Fresh minced garlic adds a punch of aroma and savory depth.

Penne Pasta – The perfect shape for catching all that creamy, cheesy sauce.

Heavy Cream – The foundation for the sauce’s rich, luscious texture.

Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated is best for melting smoothly into the sauce.

Mozzarella Cheese – Adds melty, stretchy goodness to balance the sharp parmesan.

Cream Cheese – Just a touch makes the sauce silky and indulgent.

Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning the pasta and steak to perfection.

Fresh Parsley – Optional but recommended for a fresh finish.

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

Step 1: Prep and Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Sear the Cajun Steak Tips

Pat the steak tips dry and toss them in Cajun seasoning until well coated. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm.

Step 3: Start the Cream Sauce Base

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Cheeses for a Creamy Finish

Whisk in cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add parmesan and mozzarella gradually, stirring until the sauce is thick and velvety. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne to the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Spoon the creamy penne into bowls and top with the seared Cajun steak tips. Garnish with fresh parsley and a final crack of black pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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How to Serve and Store Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne

This dish is best served hot, right off the skillet. The creamy sauce tends to thicken as it sits, so a little extra splash of cream or milk can bring it back to life if needed. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pasta and steak in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving the steak if possible—it can overcook quickly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Rigatoni, rotini, or even fettuccine can work if you don’t have penne on hand. Just go with a shape that holds onto sauce.

How spicy is this dish?

It depends on your Cajun seasoning. If you’re heat-sensitive, look for a mild blend or reduce the amount used. You can always sprinkle on extra spice later.

Can I make it ahead of time?

The steak is best fresh, but you can prep the sauce and pasta a few hours in advance. Store them separately and combine when ready to serve.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but freshly grated parmesan and mozzarella will melt more smoothly and taste better.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk. Avoid the microwave for steak—it can get rubbery.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning blend is certified gluten-free.

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Want More Dinner Recipes with a Cajun Twist?

If these Cajun steak tips made your tastebuds sing, you’ll love these other savory dinner inspirations:

• Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo Recipe for more creamy heat.
• Cajun Shrimp Scampi when you’re craving seafood flair.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a loaded, cheesy twist.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli when you want pasta and protein all in one.
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a fast weeknight fix.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you swap the penne for tortellini? Try extra Cajun heat or a dash of hot sauce?

I love seeing how you all make these recipes your own. Questions are always welcome too—let’s help each other cook better.

👉 Find more daily meal inspiration on my Pinterest: Life with Jam

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