Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

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Tender, juicy Cajun steak tips seared to golden perfection and served alongside creamy, cheesy penne pasta drenched in a bold Parmesan sauce — this dish is the definition of indulgent comfort food with a spicy twist. The steak is seasoned with a smoky, peppery Cajun blend that forms a savory crust as it cooks, locking in juices and flavor. It’s then paired with rich, velvety pasta that clings to every bite of the ridged penne, creating a flavor explosion in each forkful.

This is a restaurant-quality meal you can recreate at home in under an hour. It’s perfect for cozy dinners, impressing guests, or when you’re just craving something seriously satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of spice, steak, or ultra-creamy pasta, this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce hits all the right notes — bold, creamy, cheesy, and unforgettable.

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Why You’ll Love This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

• A perfect balance of flavors – smoky, spicy steak meets creamy, cheesy pasta.
• Quick but fancy – ready in less than an hour but looks and tastes like fine dining.
• Protein-packed and filling – ideal for hearty dinners or meal prep.
• Crowd-pleaser – a guaranteed hit for guests or picky eaters.
• Flexible spice level – easy to adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preference.
• One pan for steak, one pot for pasta – minimal cleanup for maximum flavor.
• Comfort food with a kick – creamy meets spicy in the best way.
• Perfect for weeknight indulgence or a weekend treat.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Their Importance)

To pull off this rich and flavorful Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce, a few key tools will help streamline your cooking process and elevate the final result:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan: Crucial for getting that beautiful sear on the steak tips. It retains heat evenly and creates a crisp, flavorful crust while keeping the inside juicy.
• Large Saucepan or Dutch Oven: You’ll need this for boiling the penne and then finishing the cheesy sauce. A wide pot prevents crowding and helps evenly coat every piece of pasta.
• Tongs: Ideal for flipping steak tips without piercing them and releasing the juices.
• Whisk: Helps emulsify the cheese sauce smoothly, avoiding clumps and ensuring a velvety texture.
• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: For trimming and cubing the steak into bite-sized, even pieces.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Consistency is key, especially when working with spices and sauces.
• Colander: Drains the pasta quickly while preserving its texture.

With the right tools, you’ll not only speed up prep and cleanup but also ensure each component is cooked to perfection.

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Preparation Tips

• Bring steak to room temperature before cooking to promote even searing.
• Dry the steak cubes with a paper towel before seasoning. Moisture is the enemy of a good crust.
• Generously season the steak tips — the Cajun spice should fully coat each piece for full flavor.
• Undercook pasta by 1 minute before adding it to the sauce. It will finish cooking as it absorbs flavor.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan, not pre-shredded, for a smoother, meltier cheese sauce.
• Taste as you go – especially with Cajun seasoning, since spice levels can vary between brands.
• Reserve some pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed — it’s starchy and helps bind everything.
• Let the steak rest for a few minutes after searing before serving to retain juices.

These tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and ensure your Cajun steak and cheesy pasta come together flawlessly.

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Ingredients for Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

Here’s everything you need to recreate this rich and flavorful dish at home. Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, with a few that elevate the dish to restaurant quality.

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For the Cajun Steak Tips:

• 1.5 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 1.5 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for deeper flavor)

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For the Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp Cajun seasoning (optional, for heat in the sauce)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Pinch of red pepper flakes, for garnish
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

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These ingredients come together to create a spicy, savory steak paired with a creamy, cheesy pasta that’s comforting and deeply flavorful. Adjust spice and cheese levels to suit your taste — the dish is incredibly versatile.

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Step 1: Season the Steak Tips

Pat the steak cubes dry with a paper towel. In a bowl, toss them with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Let the seasoned steak sit for about 15–20 minutes at room temperature while you prepare the pasta and sauce.

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Step 2: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until just al dente, about 1 minute less than package directions. Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

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Step 3: Sear the Cajun Steak Tips

Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter. Once hot, add the steak tips in a single layer (do this in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from heat and set aside to rest.

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Step 4: Make the Cheesy Parmesan Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then add Parmesan and cheddar cheese gradually, whisking until smooth and creamy.

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Step 5: Season and Combine

Add onion powder, a pinch of Cajun seasoning (if you want heat in the sauce), salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the cooked penne and toss to coat. If needed, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.

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Step 6: Assemble and Garnish

Plate the cheesy penne onto one side of a dish and arrange the Cajun steak tips alongside. Sprinkle red pepper flakes and chopped parsley over the top for extra flavor and presentation.

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Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve hot while the cheese sauce is gooey and the steak tips are still warm and juicy. Optional: add extra grated Parmesan or a drizzle of Cajun butter over the steak for even more indulgence.

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Notes

• Use high-quality steak like sirloin or ribeye for the most tender, juicy bites.
• Customize the heat by adjusting the Cajun seasoning or omitting the red pepper flakes.
• Freshly grated cheeses melt more smoothly than pre-shredded, which often contains anti-caking agents.
• Add veggies like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers to make it heartier.
• Double the sauce if you prefer extra creamy pasta or plan to reheat leftovers.
• Use leftover steak from another meal to speed things up — just reheat and toss into the sauce at the end.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the pan when searing steak tips. This prevents browning and steams the meat instead. Cook in batches if needed.
• Using cold steak straight from the fridge. Always let it sit at room temp for 20–30 minutes before searing to cook evenly.
• Overcooking the steak. Steak tips cook fast; 2–3 minutes per side is usually plenty for medium doneness.
• Not reserving pasta water. A splash of this starchy water can rescue a sauce that’s too thick or help bind everything together.
• Adding cheese too quickly or at high heat. This can lead to a gritty or clumpy sauce. Always melt cheese gently and gradually.
• Underseasoning the pasta sauce. Balance the richness with salt, a touch of pepper, and extra Cajun seasoning if needed.
• Skipping the rest time for the steak. Cutting too soon causes juices to run out, leaving the meat dry.
• Using pre-shredded cheese. It won’t melt as smoothly and can ruin the creamy texture of your sauce.

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What to Serve With Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

This dish is rich and indulgent, so pairing it with the right sides can balance the flavors and make the meal feel complete. Whether you want something light, refreshing, or equally comforting, here are some great options:

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8 Recommendations:

1. Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks
   Perfect for soaking up any leftover Parmesan sauce on the plate.
2. Simple Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
   The peppery greens and citrus cut through the creaminess of the pasta.
3. Grilled Asparagus or Broccolini
   A crisp, charred green veggie adds a beautiful contrast and a fresh crunch.
4. Oven-Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   Tossed in olive oil and a pinch of salt, they bring a slightly bitter note that complements the rich sauce.
5. Creamed Spinach
   If you’re going all in on comfort food, creamed spinach is a decadent pairing.
6. Corn on the Cob or Cajun Corn Salad
   Adds a sweet and spicy Southern vibe that matches the Cajun flavors of the steak.
7. Caprese Skewers
   Light and colorful with mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes drizzled in balsamic glaze.
8. Chilled Cucumber and Tomato Salad
   This refreshing side cools the palate and lightens up the meal.

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Each of these sides adds something unique to the Cajun steak and cheesy pasta combo — from crunch and freshness to more bold, savory flavors.

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Storage Instructions

Got leftovers? No problem — this dish holds up surprisingly well with the right storage methods:

• Refrigeration: Store steak and pasta separately in airtight containers. This helps preserve the texture of both components. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheating: For the pasta, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. For steak tips, reheat in a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes to avoid drying them out.
• Freezing: Not recommended for the cheese sauce — it may separate and turn grainy upon thawing. However, you can freeze the cooked steak tips for up to 2 months in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving, Serves 4)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~720 kcal
Protein	42g
Carbohydrates	48g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	4g
Fat	41g
Saturated Fat	21g
Unsaturated Fat	16g
Trans Fat	<1g
Cholesterol	145mg
Sodium	810mg
Serving Size	1 generous plate
Category	Main Course (Dinner)
Method	Stovetop
Cuisine	Cajun-American
Keywords	Cajun steak, creamy pasta, cheesy penne, quick dinner, easy comfort food

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cut of beef besides sirloin or ribeye?

Absolutely. Flank steak or New York strip also works well. Just make sure to slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.

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2. How spicy is this dish?

That depends on your Cajun seasoning. Some blends are mild, others pack heat. You can adjust the spice level by using less seasoning or omitting the red pepper flakes in the garnish.

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3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. You can prep the steak and pasta sauce ahead, then combine and reheat gently when ready to serve.

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4. Is there a way to lighten up the sauce?

You can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of milk and Greek yogurt, though the texture will be less rich. Reduce the cheese slightly to cut back on fat.

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5. What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix to taste.

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6. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Fusilli, rigatoni, or even shells will work. Just avoid long noodles like spaghetti or fettuccine, which don’t hold the sauce as well.

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7. Is this dish kid-friendly?

If your kids don’t mind a little spice, they’ll love it. To make it more kid-friendly, reduce the Cajun seasoning and skip the red pepper flakes.

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8. Can I add vegetables directly into the pasta?

Definitely. Spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted bell peppers would be great stirred into the sauce.

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Conclusion

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce is a bold, flavorful fusion of creamy comfort food and spicy Southern flair. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or a dinner party for guests, this dish delivers the kind of restaurant-quality satisfaction that’s hard to beat. It’s easy to adapt, simple to prepare, and sure to impress — all while being irresistibly creamy, cheesy, and packed with perfectly seared steak.

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