Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

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Imagine the smoky sizzle of Cajun-spiced steak tips nestled into a velvety bed of cheesy penne, all swirled together in a rich Parmesan sauce. This dish is comfort food with a kick, where tender steak meets pasta decadence, and every bite brings warmth and spice. It’s bold, creamy, and unbelievably satisfying.

Whether you’re winding down after a long day or looking to impress at dinner, Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce delivers. It’s a one-pan flavor bomb, packed with layers of spice and cheese that make it impossible to resist. The best part? You don’t need a culinary degree to make it happen in your own kitchen.

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

This dish hits every comfort note. You get the savory richness of perfectly seared steak tips, a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce that clings to every penne tube, and that unmistakable Cajun heat that wakes up your palate. It’s fast enough for weeknights but elevated enough to feel like a treat.

With pantry staples and simple steps, this recipe makes steakhouse quality dinner accessible any night of the week. And did we mention the leftovers are just as drool-worthy the next day?

What Cut of Steak Works Best for Cajun Steak Tips?

You want a cut that stays juicy and flavorful even after a quick sear. Sirloin is the go-to here — affordable, tender, and meaty. You can also go with ribeye for extra richness or even flank steak if you slice it thin across the grain. The key is marinating it briefly with Cajun seasoning to let the flavor soak in before it hits the hot pan.

Ingredients for the Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

When it comes to flavor-packed pasta, the ingredients do the heavy lifting. Each component in this dish plays a starring role. From the bold spices to the creamy cheese, these simple yet powerful ingredients create a dish that tastes like a restaurant classic.

• Sirloin steak tips
• Penne pasta
• Cajun seasoning
• Olive oil
• Garlic cloves
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Butter

The sirloin steak tips provide the hearty, meaty foundation. Penne pasta holds onto the sauce like a champ. Cajun seasoning adds that smoky, peppery heat that makes every bite pop. Olive oil and butter bring richness to both the steak and the sauce, while garlic cloves deepen the savory notes. Heavy cream creates the luscious base of the sauce, and Parmesan cheese melts into a nutty, salty layer of flavor. A pinch of salt and black pepper ties it all together.

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

Step 1: Sear the Steak Tips

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and sear the steak tips that have been tossed in Cajun seasoning. Cook until they develop a golden crust, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the penne pasta in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of the pasta water.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Combine It All

Add the cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir in the steak tips and coat everything in the creamy Parmesan sauce.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and dig into a pasta dish that’s equal parts comforting and exciting.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Getting the most out of this recipe means paying attention to a few easy-to-miss details. Overcooking the steak tips is the most common slip-up. Since they cook quickly, just a couple of extra minutes can dry them out. Always let them rest a few minutes after searing to keep the juices locked in.

Another common issue? Skipping the pasta water. That starchy liquid helps the sauce stick to the penne and brings everything together. And don’t rush the Parmesan melting—grate it fresh and stir it in gradually so the sauce stays smooth.

Serving and Storing This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

This recipe comfortably serves 4 people and is great for both casual family meals and dressed-up dinner nights. Serve it straight from the skillet while it’s piping hot for that melty, saucy experience.

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can toughen the steak and break the sauce.

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

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is a natural companion to this creamy, cheesy pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

A side of roasted broccoli adds a hint of bitterness that balances the richness of the dish.

Caesar Salad

The cool, crisp textures of Caesar salad contrast beautifully with the warm, spicy pasta.

Grilled Asparagus

Its smokiness enhances the Cajun flavor of the steak tips without overpowering.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

Bright, acidic, and refreshing, this salad helps reset your palate between bites.

Creamed Spinach

If you’re in full comfort mode, this buttery green side is a match made in heaven.

Corn on the Cob

Add a touch of summer sweetness that plays well with the smoky heat of the Cajun spices.

Sauteed Mushrooms

Their umami depth pairs wonderfully with both the steak and Parmesan cream.

Want More Steak Pasta Ideas?

If you love Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce, you’re going to want to try these other comforting, steak-filled pasta favorites:

• Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Rigatoni for that perfect blend of juicy steak and creamy sauce.
• Creamy Cajun Steak Alfredo if you want more of that Cajun kick but with a fettuccine twist.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for a chicken version of this cheesy pasta comfort.
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta when you’re craving creamy beef pasta all in one pot.

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Let me know in the comments how your version turned out. Did you go spicy or keep it mild? Try it with mushrooms or maybe bacon?

I always love seeing the creative spins you bring to these recipes. Drop your questions below, and let’s help each other cook smarter.

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Conclusion

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce is the kind of dinner that turns an ordinary night into something special. It’s rich without being too heavy, spicy without being overwhelming, and simple enough to whip up after work. Perfectly seared steak, dreamy Parmesan sauce, and pasta cooked just right—what more could you ask for in a comfort meal?

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