Print

Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce

This dish combines bold Cajun flavors with creamy Parmesan sauce for a comforting and delicious meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb Sirloin or Ribeye Steak Tips
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • 1 tsp Cajun Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • Salt & Black Pepper
  • 12 oz Penne Pasta
  • 4 Cloves Garlic, Minced
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 1 cup Whole Milk
  • 4 oz Cream Cheese, Softened
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
  • 1 tsp Cajun Seasoning (additional)
  • Fresh Parsley, Chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add your penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, drizzling with a touch of olive oil to keep it from sticking.
  2. Season the Steak: While the pasta is cooking, take your steak tips and pat them dry with a paper towel. In a bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper — then, rub this spice blend into the steak to coat evenly.
  3. Sear the Steak: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned steak tips in a single layer. Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until nicely browned.
  4. Create a Flavorful Base: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Craft the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk. Stir to combine, and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the cream cheese, whisk until melted and smooth, then gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella.
  6. Adjust the Flavor: Taste your sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning.
  7. Combine it All: Add the cooked penne back into the skillet, then toss in the seared steak tips. Mix everything together until the pasta is well-coated.
  8. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Remove from heat, sprinkle with diced parsley, and give it one last toss.

Notes

For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and consider adding grilled portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun, Steak, Creamy Pasta, Comfort Food, Pasta Recipe