Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce

Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to your table. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this recipe combines tender steak tips with creamy pasta, creating an unforgettable meal. The rich blend of Cajun spices and cheesy goodness makes it stand out, ensuring everyone will come back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in just 35 minutes.
• Flavorful Combination: The Cajun seasoning adds a zesty kick that perfectly complements the creamy Parmesan sauce.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe works well for weeknight dinners or special occasions, making it a go-to for any event.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
• Comfort Food: Enjoy the warm, comforting taste of pasta combined with savory steak tips for a satisfying meal.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delectable dish, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help ensure everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Colander

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet is essential for searing the steak tips evenly and developing flavor.
• Pot: Use a pot to boil the penne pasta to perfection before combining it with the sauce.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right flavor balance in your creamy Parmesan sauce.

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Ingredients

For the Steak Tips

• 1 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Cheesy Parmesan Penne

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp butter
• 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
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
1. Add the penne pasta to the boiling water.
2. Cook until al dente according to package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes).
3. Drain the pasta and reserve ½ cup of the cooking water.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak Tips

Season the steak tips generously.
1. In a mixing bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Toss the steak tips in this mixture until well coated.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Sear the steak tips for about 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preference.
5. Add butter during the last minute of cooking and baste the steak pieces. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet used for cooking steak:
1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté minced garlic for about one minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and whole milk; stir well.
4. Add softened cream cheese; mix until smooth.
5. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, and additional Cajun seasoning until thickened; add reserved pasta water as needed.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Toss cooked penne into the creamy sauce until well coated.
1. Return seared steak tips to the skillet with pasta and sauce; stir gently to combine.
2. Allow everything to warm together for about two minutes.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.

Enjoy your flavorful Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce!

How to Serve Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce

Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce make for a hearty and satisfying meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Garlic bread is an excellent side that complements the creamy sauce, offering a crunchy texture to balance the dish.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can add freshness and a pop of color to your meal, enhancing the overall flavors.

Serve with Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus provide a nutritious and colorful addition that pairs well with the rich sauce.

Top with Additional Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh herbs like basil or thyme not only enhances flavor but also adds an appealing visual touch to your plate.

How to Perfect Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce

Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail in both cooking and presentation. Here are some tips for achieving great results.

• Choose Quality Steak: Opt for fresh sirloin or ribeye steak tips for a tender and flavorful bite that enhances the dish.

• Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning your steak tips well. This will ensure every bite is packed with flavor.

• Monitor Cooking Time: Cook the steak tips until they reach your desired doneness. Overcooking can result in tough meat.

• Adjust Sauce Thickness: If the creamy sauce becomes too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired consistency.

• Mix Cheeses Thoroughly: Ensure cheeses are fully melted into the sauce for a smooth texture without any clumps.

Best Side Dishes for Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce

To complement your Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce, consider these delicious side dishes. Each dish adds its unique flavor profile, making your meal even more enjoyable.

1. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad offers crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main dish.

2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn adds a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the Cajun spices in your steak tips.

3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is a nutritious option that balances out the meal while adding vibrant color to your plate.

4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide crunch and acidity, cutting through the creaminess of the penne dish.

5. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad mixed with diced vegetables offers a wholesome side that is both filling and nutritious.

6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes provides an excellent balance to the savory flavors of your main course.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect.

• Using the wrong pasta: Selecting a pasta that doesn’t hold sauce well can make your dish less enjoyable. Stick with penne or similar shapes that catch the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Overcooking the steak: Cooking the steak tips too long can lead to toughness. Aim for a perfect sear and remove them from heat as soon as they reach your desired doneness.
• Neglecting to reserve pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta water can result in a sauce that’s too thick. Always keep a cup of the cooking water on hand to adjust the sauce consistency.
• Skipping proper seasoning: Not adequately seasoning each component can leave your dish bland. Season the steak and sauce generously for maximum flavor impact.
• Rushing the sauce preparation: Trying to speed up the sauce-making process might result in lumps or an uneven texture. Take your time to blend ingredients well for a smooth, creamy finish.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce

• You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring all air is removed before sealing.

Reheating Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the dish in an oven-safe container covered with foil, heating for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Transfer portions into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water if necessary. Stir occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce.

Can I use other meats instead of steak?

Yes! You can substitute chicken, turkey, or even lamb for steak tips for different flavor profiles while keeping it delicious.

What can I use as a substitute for heavy cream?

You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative if you prefer a lighter version.

How spicy is Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning typically has a mild to moderate spice level but can vary by brand. Adjust according to your taste preference by using less or more seasoning.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace steak with mushrooms or plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of meat broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.

Final Thoughts

Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce is not only rich and flavorful but also versatile enough for customization. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutritional boost. We encourage you to try this delightful recipe and make it your own!