Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce is an exciting dish that bursts with flavor! The juicy steak tips perfectly complement the rich and creamy cheese sauce, while the Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone. Just imagine the beautiful colors on your plate – the golden pasta, the vibrant green parsley, and the decadent sauces!

As you dive into this recipe, you can expect a sensory delight. The aroma of sizzling steak and fragrant garlic fills your kitchen, making it hard to resist until dinner is served. This article will guide you step by step, from gathering fresh ingredients to serving up an eye-catching plate of Cajun goodness. Get ready to elevate your cooking experience and impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh ingredients for a burst of flavor.
Easy to prepare, making it perfect for any cook.
Packed with protein and creamy goodness.
Versatile enough to serve on any occasion.
Visually stunning and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

You’ll find so many reasons to bring this dish into your regular menu!

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes

Note that times may vary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

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, to taste
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 (to tie the flavor together)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season the Steak: In a large bowl, combine the steak tips with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the steak.
Sear the Steak: Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips and sear for about 3-4 minutes until they’re browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and whole milk, stir to combine. Add in the cream cheese gradually, mixing until melted and creamy.
Add Cheese: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses. Mix well until the sauce is smooth. Season with additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
Combine Pasta and Steak: Add the cooked penne pasta and seared steak back into the skillet. Toss until the pasta and steak are well coated with the creamy sauce.
Garnish and Serve: Transfer to serving plates, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and enjoy!

How to Serve

Presentation: Serve in shallow bowls to highlight the creamy sauce.
Accompaniments: Pair with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Portions: This recipe easily serves 4 to 6 people.
Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine or iced tea for a refreshing touch.

You’ll love how easy it is to impress your guests!

Additional Tips

Flavor Enhancement: Add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Customization: Substitute steak with grilled chicken or shrimp for variety.
Serving Suggestions: Consider topping with extra cheese or red pepper flakes for added flavor.

Recipe Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace steak with sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a hearty dish.
Spicy Cajun Pasta: Add diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers to the sauce for heat.
One-Pot Meal: Combine everything in one pot from start to finish for easy cleanup.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: To freeze, store the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen for best results.

Special Equipment

Large skillet
Pot for boiling pasta
Mixing bowls
Measuring spoons
Strainer
Wooden spoon or spatula

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen steak tips?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking for better texture.

2. Is this recipe suitable for those on a low-carb diet?
You can make it low-carb by swapping penne pasta for zucchini noodles or another veggie-based alternative.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the steak ahead, then just combine and heat before serving.

4. What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can create your own mix with paprika, garlic powder, oregano, and cayenne pepper for similar flavor.

5. Can I cook this using a slow cooker?
While it’s best cooked on the stovetop for creamy consistency, you can use a slow cooker for the steak, then add it to the sauce at the end.

Conclusion

Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family meal or something special for a gathering, this recipe covers all bases. You’ll love how easy it is to make and how impressive it looks on the table. So, grab your ingredients and start cooking—this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home!