Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce

A sizzling pan filled with perfectly seared steak tips enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce is the kind of comfort that brings everyone to the dinner table. This recipe for Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce takes just under 30 minutes to prepare and delivers a rich flavor that feels indulgent without requiring all day to make. The combination of Cajun spices and rich cheeses creates a dish that is both gratifying and memorable.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings when you want to impress without too much effort. It’s also a great candidate for making ahead of time; simply store the components separately and combine them right before serving for the freshest taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The steak tips are seared to perfection, maintaining a juicy and tender texture.
• The creamy sauce envelops the penne, creating a comforting dish that satisfies.
• Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick that perfectly complements the richness of the cheese.
• It’s a quick, one-pan meal that minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor.

What You’ll Need

Gather everything you need to make this delicious dish, grouped by function.

For the Steak

• 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

For the Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta

For the 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 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (to tie the flavor together)

For Serving

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Use low-fat dairy for lighter options.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ribeye can be swapped for flank steak.
• Heavy cream can be replaced with half-and-half.
• Mozzarella can be substituted with Gruyere.
• Penne can be interchanged with any pasta shape.

How to Make It

Start by cooking your penne pasta for a delicious base.

1. Cook the pasta
   Boil the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1 cup of cooking water.

2. Season the steak
   In a bowl, season the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Sear the steak
   Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak tips for about 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside in a dish.

4. Sauté garlic
   In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

5. Prepare the sauce
   Add heavy cream, whole milk, and cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until smooth and creamy.

6. Mix in the cheeses
   Gradually add in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses along with an extra teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. If the sauce is too thick, incorporate reserved pasta water as needed.

7. Combine and serve
   Toss the cooked penne in the sauce. Return the steak tips to the skillet, mix everything well, and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, sauces don’t freeze well.
Reheat: in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.

Tips for Best Results

• Use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked steak (135°F for medium-rare).
• Avoid overcooking the pasta to ensure it retains texture in the sauce.
• Incorporate reserved pasta water gradually to achieve the desired sauce consistency.
• Consider using fresh herbs for added flavor depth.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side salad for a lightened meal.
• Serve with garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Perfect for casual gatherings with friends or family.