Delicious Cajun Steak Tips And Creamy Cheesy Penne Recipe

Crisp, tender steak bathed in a creamy, spicy sauce and nestled on a bed of cheesy penne – this Creamy Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne recipe is the ultimate comfort food experience. The magic lies in the contrast: the robust flavor of perfectly seared steak, the gentle heat of Cajun spices tempered by the richness of the Parmesan cheese sauce, and the satisfying chew of the penne pasta.

This isn’t just a meal; it’s a culinary hug. The sear on the steak creates a delightful crust that gives way to a juicy interior. The creamy sauce brings everything together, coating each element in a blanket of flavor. Serve this hearty dish on a chilly evening for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, or elevate your weeknight dinner with a restaurant-quality experience at home.

Why you’ll love this Creamy Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne

• It’s a complete meal in one dish, combining protein, carbs, and a delicious creamy sauce.
• The recipe is surprisingly quick, ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• The creamy Cajun steak tips offer a delightful balance of savory, spicy, and cheesy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
• It’s easily customizable – adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.
• This dish is an excellent way to use sirloin steak, transforming it into a restaurant-worthy meal.
• Impress your family and friends with this gourmet-tasting cajun steak tips recipe that’s easier to make than it looks.

Ingredients & Substitutions

• 1.5 lbs beef sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound penne pasta
• 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

**Substitutions:**

* For a lighter option, use 2% milk instead of whole milk and skip the heavy cream.
* Gluten-free? Use your favorite gluten-free penne pasta.
* No penne on hand? Any short pasta shape like rotini or fusilli will work well.

How to make Creamy Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne

Step 1: Prepare the steak

Cajun steak tips makes every moment feel indulgent. In a bowl, toss the steak cubes with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Ensure the steak is evenly coated. This step is crucial for infusing the steak with flavor.

Step 2: Cook the pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Remember to salt the pasta water for optimal flavor!

Step 3: Sear the steak

While the pasta is cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak tips in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.

Chef’s Tip: Don’t move the steak around too much while searing. Let it develop a nice crust on each side.

Step 4: Make the roux

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. This is the base for your creamy sauce, so don’t rush this step!

Step 5: Create the cheese sauce

Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Chef’s Tip: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash more milk to thin it out.

Step 6: Combine everything

Add the cooked penne pasta and seared steak tips to the cheese sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the steak. Work in batches to ensure even browning.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and melting quality.
• Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
• For a deeper flavor, marinate the steak tips in the Cajun seasoning mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne is a satisfying meal on its own, but it’s even better with a simple side dish. Consider serving it with:

* A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
* Steamed broccoli or asparagus.
* Garlic bread or breadsticks.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat.

Frequently Asked Questions

**Can I freeze this dish?**

While you *can* freeze this, the texture of the sauce and pasta may change slightly upon thawing. The steak may become less tender. For best results, enjoy fresh.

**Is this dish very spicy?**

The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning you use and whether you add red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount of Cajun seasoning and add more to taste. You can also omit the red pepper flakes altogether for a milder flavor.

**Can I use a different type of steak?**

Yes, while sirloin is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use other cuts of beef such as tenderloin or ribeye, just be sure to cut them into uniform sized cubes.

Conclusion

This Creamy Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne is a flavor explosion that’s surprisingly easy to create. The combination of tender steak, spicy Cajun seasoning, and creamy Parmesan sauce is simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the spice levels to find your perfect balance! Head on over to Fork Haven if you want more dinner and dessert inspiration! Let me know in the comments how yours turns out!