If you love dishes that bring bold flavors and comforting creaminess together in one unforgettable plate, then you are going to fall head over heels for this Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe. Tender, perfectly seasoned steak tips add a smoky kick, while the luscious creamy Parmesan sauce wraps every bite of al dente penne pasta in smooth, cheesy goodness. This is the kind of meal that feels luxurious yet homey, making it an instant favorite for weeknight dinners or special gatherings that call for a little extra magic in your cookware.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Each element plays a crucial role—from the robust spices that make the steak tips pop, to the creamy cheeses that bring the sauce to life, and the pasta that ties it all together in perfect harmony.
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak tips: Choose tender cuts well-marbled for juicy, flavorful results after searing.
- 12 oz penne pasta: The ridged tubes hold sauce beautifully, ensuring every forkful is creamy and satisfying.
- 4 cloves garlic: Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth and a subtle spicy bite to both the steak and sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This forms the rich, velvety base of your Parmesan sauce, making it irresistibly smooth.
- 1 cup whole milk: Added to lighten the cream slightly and blend flavors seamlessly.
- 4 oz cream cheese: Softened to melt effortlessly, cream cheese enriches the sauce with a silky texture.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: The star of the sauce, Parmesan brings sharp, nutty umami that defines the dish.
- Cajun seasoning: A vibrant mix of spices that gives the steak tips their signature bold and smoky flavor profile.
How to Make Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Start by boiling your penne pasta in generously salted water until it reaches a perfect al dente texture. This is important because the pasta needs to hold up when tossed in the rich, creamy sauce later without becoming mushy. Once cooked, drain well and set aside so it’s ready to soak up all that delicious flavor.
Step 2: Season and sear the steak tips
Pat your steak tips dry and season them liberally with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This bold spice blend is what gives the dish its characteristic heat and complexity. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak tips for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful, caramelized crust. Remove the steak from the skillet and keep them warm—these bites of juicy meat will be the perfect protein centerpiece.
Step 3: Prepare the creamy Parmesan sauce
Without cleaning the skillet, melt some butter and sauté minced garlic just until fragrant—this subtle step infuses the sauce with that classic garlic aroma. Then pour in your heavy cream and milk, stirring gently to combine. Add your softened cream cheese, stirring constantly until the sauce turns wonderfully smooth. This creamy base is where the magic happens, setting the stage for the richness to come.
Step 4: Add cheeses and Cajun kick
Slowly incorporate the freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the warm cream mixture, stirring until it melts into a luscious sauce. For an extra touch of gooey indulgence, mix in some mozzarella cheese if you have it on hand. Don’t forget to add a pinch more Cajun seasoning here to boost that smoky, spicy flavor that ties everything together. The sauce should be thick, silky, and full of flavor at this point.
Step 5: Combine and toss to coat
Return the cooked penne and seared steak tips to the skillet with your creamy sauce. Gently toss everything together to ensure each piece of pasta and every steak tip is coated in that savory Parmesan goodness. This final mix is what makes the dish feel cohesive and completely crave-worthy.
How to Serve Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing is more than just pretty plating—it adds freshness and a final flavor burst. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a bright, herbal note that contrasts beautifully against the rich sauce. You can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for those who adore cheesy finishes or a light drizzle of olive oil for a silky sheen.
Side Dishes
This dish is filling on its own, but pairing it with crisp, refreshing sides can elevate the experience. Consider a simple mixed green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli that bring a pop of color and crunch to the meal. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are perfect to scoop up every last bit of creamy sauce from your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests or want to impress, try plating the Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe family-style in a large serving bowl so everyone can dig in together. Alternatively, create individual servings in shallow bowls and top each with a few microgreens or a dash of smoked paprika for a pop of color and elegance. Presentation makes sharing this delicious meal even more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce thickens as it cools, so gently stir the contents before reheating to redistribute the flavors evenly. Properly stored, this dish should stay delicious for up to 3 days.
Freezing
While creamy pasta dishes like this don’t always freeze perfectly because cream-based sauces can separate, you can freeze the steak tips separately from the pasta and sauce to maintain the best texture. Wrap the steak tips tightly and freeze for up to 2 months; thaw fully before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers on low heat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Stir gently to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency and heat evenly without drying out the steak tips.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of meat?
Absolutely! Sirloin and ribeye tips are preferred for their tenderness and flavor, but you can substitute with flank steak or even boneless chicken if you want to switch it up. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Is the sauce gluten-free?
The sauce itself is gluten-free, but be sure to choose gluten-free pasta if you need to keep the entire meal free from gluten. The Cajun seasoning and cheeses are naturally gluten-free as well.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning?
The spice level can be adjusted to your liking. Cajun seasoning generally offers a medium heat with smoky, earthy undertones. If you prefer milder flavors, use less seasoning or opt for a milder spice blend.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream, and choose a dairy-free Parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast to keep that cheesy flavor alive.
What wine pairs well with this dish?
A bold red wine like Zinfandel or a peppery Syrah complements the Cajun spices and rich Parmesan sauce beautifully, balancing the smoky, creamy elements with fruity depth.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a meal that feels both indulgent and exciting, the Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe is your jackpot. It’s a fantastic way to bring bold seasoning, tender steak, creamy cheesy comfort, and satisfying pasta to your table all in one go. I genuinely hope you give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you for the journey!
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Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Savor a delicious and creamy Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce dish, combining tender, spicy steak tips with perfectly cooked penne pasta in a rich, cheesy sauce infused with Cajun flavors. This hearty and flavorful meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak tips
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 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
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 until al dente, according to package instructions, usually about 10–12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Season and sear the steak tips: In a bowl, season the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak tips for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the 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 and stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add cheeses and seasoning: Gradually mix in the grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheeses. Add additional Cajun seasoning to taste, stirring continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined.
- Combine pasta, steak, and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta and seared steak tips back into the skillet with the creamy cheese sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
- Serve: Plate the Cajun steak tips with penne in creamy Parmesan cheese sauce and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Use sirloin or ribeye tip steaks for the best tenderness and flavor.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference—add more for extra heat or reduce for milder flavor.
- For a lower-fat version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheese.
- The mozzarella adds a nice melty texture; you can omit or replace with another melting cheese if preferred.
- Make sure to soften cream cheese beforehand to achieve a smooth sauce without lumps.
