Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

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When tender steak tips meet a velvety, cheesy penne parmesan sauce, something magical happens. This dish is bold and creamy, with just enough Cajun spice to warm you up from the inside out. Every forkful offers juicy bites of Cajun-seasoned beef wrapped in pasta and parmesan richness.

This is the kind of dinner that feels fancy but is simple enough for a weeknight. It brings the soul of Southern flavor to your table without needing a grill or a dozen ingredients. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or just want a cozy bowl of comfort, this one’s a winner.

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

It’s a complete flavor experience. The Cajun seasoning infuses the steak with bold spice, while the cheesy parmesan sauce gives the pasta a decadent coating. It’s also a one-pan-friendly meal if you cook the pasta in advance, which makes cleanup a breeze.

You’ll also love that it’s endlessly customizable. Swap out the penne for shells or even fettuccine. Add mushrooms or spinach for a veggie boost. Or toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper if you like extra heat.

What Kind of Steak Tips Should I Use?

The beauty of this dish is its flexibility. Sirloin tips are the go-to choice for tenderness and quick cooking. But you can also use flat iron steak, ribeye chunks, or even flank steak sliced against the grain. Just aim for small, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and absorb all that savory Cajun flavor.

Ingredients for the Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

A great dish starts with bold, fresh ingredients, and this one is no exception. The beauty of this recipe is how it brings simple components together into something rich and satisfying. Each element plays a role in balancing heat, texture, and creamy comfort.

• Steak tips: The star of the dish, these bring a juicy, beefy bite and soak up the Cajun spices beautifully.
• Cajun seasoning: Adds that Southern heat and smoky depth; make your own or use a trusted store-bought blend.
• Penne pasta: Perfect for catching all the cheesy sauce in its ridges and tubes.
• Butter: Helps sear the steak and adds richness to the sauce.
• Heavy cream: The base of the parmesan sauce that makes it smooth and indulgent.
• Garlic: A subtle background note that deepens the flavor.
• Parmesan cheese: Salty, nutty, and melty, it gives the sauce its classic flavor.
• Olive oil: Used to cook the steak evenly and add depth to the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: To balance and highlight every flavor.

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Tips

Season the steak tips generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil and a tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add remaining butter and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stir, and bring to a gentle simmer. Slowly whisk in the parmesan cheese until smooth and melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. Return the steak tips to the skillet, allowing them to warm through and soak up the sauce.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Plate immediately while hot and creamy. Garnish with extra parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve and Store Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

This dish is best served hot right off the stove, when the parmesan sauce is creamy and the steak tips are juicy. It feeds about 4 hearty portions, but you can stretch it to 6 smaller servings if paired with sides. Serve in shallow bowls to let the sauce pool beautifully around the pasta.

Leftovers store well for up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life without drying out the steak. It’s not ideal for freezing due to the cream base, but it makes an excellent next-day lunch.

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

Garlic Bread

You can’t go wrong with golden, buttery garlic bread to mop up every drop of that cheesy sauce.

Roasted Asparagus

The crisp, slightly charred spears provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish.

Caesar Salad

A chilled Caesar with crunchy croutons and zesty dressing adds brightness and crunch.

Creamed Spinach

If you’re leaning into comfort, this creamy side fits right in with the cozy pasta vibes.

Caprese Salad

For a lighter, summery twist, a Caprese brings juicy tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella to the table.

Sauteed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms bring another layer of umami that complements the steak beautifully.

Lemon Green Beans

A spritz of lemon on tender green beans cuts through the richness in the best way.

Buttery Corn on the Cob

Sweet and buttery, corn is a playful and satisfying side that rounds out the meal.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you’re loving the rich, cozy vibe of these Cajun steak tips in cheesy penne, there are plenty more pasta favorites to explore:

• Try the Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a tangy, veggie-packed alternative.

• Craving seafood? The Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta gives you the same Cajun comfort with a seafood twist.

• Dig into One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni when you want deep savory flavor with easy cleanup.

• For a cheesy classic, the Delicious Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese brings the ultimate in comfort.

• Or spice things up with the Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta – a sister recipe that’s bold, saucy, and ready to impress.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms? Swap out the penne? Try it with shrimp instead of steak?

I love hearing how others make these dishes their own. Questions are welcome too – let’s help each other cook better, bolder meals.

Explore beautifully curated comfort meals on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feel-good dinners.

Conclusion

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce is the kind of meal that turns any dinner into something special. With bold seasoning, melty cheese, and tender beef, it checks every box for a hearty, feel-good dinner. Whether you serve it up for guests or cozy up with a bowl on your own, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

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