Description
Savor the rich flavors of Cajun Steak Tips tossed with penne pasta in a luscious creamy Parmesan cheese sauce. This easy-to-make dish combines tender, seasoned steak tips with a velvety sauce enhanced by garlic, cream cheese, and freshly grated Parmesan, delivering a satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak and Seasonings
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak tips
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Additional Cajun seasoning, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Season and Sear the Steak Tips: In a bowl, combine steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak tips for 3 to 4 minutes per side until nicely browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, stirring to combine. Add the softened cream cheese, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy.
- Add the Cheeses and Seasoning: Gradually mix in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella until melted and fully incorporated into the sauce. Taste and adjust with additional Cajun seasoning as desired.
- Combine and Serve: Return the seared steak tips to the skillet along with the cooked penne pasta. Toss everything together to ensure the pasta and steak are evenly coated with the creamy Parmesan sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- You can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli if preferred.
- Let the steak rest for a few minutes after searing to retain juices before adding it to the sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
