Description

Get ready to fall in love with this bold and creamy Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce — the ultimate comfort-meets-flavor dinner idea. Juicy Cajun-spiced steak tips are pan-seared to perfection, then paired with rich, velvety penne pasta smothered in a luscious Parmesan and cheddar cheese sauce. This easy dinner recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight indulgence or an impressive weekend feast. Packed with protein and creamy pasta goodness, it’s one of those food ideas that brings restaurant-level taste right to your table. If you’re craving a satisfying, easy recipe that balances spice, richness, and texture — this one’s for you.

Ingredients

1.5 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cubed

1.5 tbsp Cajun seasoning

1 tbsp olive oil

1 tbsp butter

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

1 tsp garlic powder

0.5 tsp smoked paprika

12 oz penne pasta

2 tbsp butter

3 cloves garlic, minced

1.5 cups heavy cream

1 cup whole milk

1.25 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

0.5 tsp onion powder

0.5 tsp Cajun seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

Pinch red pepper flakes, for garnish

Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Pat the steak dry with paper towels and season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 15–20 minutes.

2. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook penne until just al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.

3. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak tips in batches for 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and let rest.

4. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add heavy cream and milk, and bring to a gentle simmer.

5. Stir in Parmesan and cheddar cheese gradually, whisking until smooth. Add onion powder, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

6. Toss cooked penne in the sauce, adding pasta water as needed to loosen. Stir until evenly coated and creamy.

7. Plate pasta and arrange steak tips on top or on the side. Garnish with red pepper flakes and chopped parsley.

8. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.

Notes

Use freshly grated cheese for the best texture in the sauce.

Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing steak — work in batches for a proper crust.

Let steak rest after cooking to keep it juicy and flavorful.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Cajun-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 generous plate
Calories: 720
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 810mg
Fat: 41g
Saturated Fat: 21g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: <1g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 42g
Cholesterol: 145mg

Keywords: Cajun steak, creamy pasta, cheesy penne, quick dinner, easy comfort food