Savory Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

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Craving a comforting dinner with a bold twist? This Savory Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce recipe might just be your new weeknight favorite. It delivers tender, juicy Cajun-spiced steak tips with creamy, cheesy penne pasta, all finished with a sprinkle of herbs and chili flakes. It looks fancy, tastes indulgent, and yet it’s incredibly simple to whip up at home.

The beauty of this dish lies in its contrast: smoky, seared beef tips meet the creamy richness of parmesan-laced pasta. It’s a hearty one-bowl meal that balances spice, texture, and comfort. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this recipe will get all the right kinds of attention.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring this steak-and-pasta fusion to life, you only need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Grill Pan: For that perfectly seared crust on your Cajun steak tips. Cast iron retains heat exceptionally well and gives you that crave-worthy char.
• Large Pot: Needed to boil the pasta. Go for one with a wide base to prevent sticking and allow enough room for the penne to cook evenly.
• Strainer or Colander: Drain your pasta quickly without losing precious time or letting it overcook.
• Whisk: This is crucial for creating that ultra-smooth cheesy parmesan sauce without any clumps.
• Tongs or Spatula: Flip and remove steak tips easily without piercing and releasing all the juices.
• Grater: Freshly grated parmesan makes all the difference in flavor and melting quality.

Each of these tools plays a simple but vital role in making sure your steak is juicy, your sauce is silky, and your pasta perfectly al dente.

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Ingredients for the Savory Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

• Sirloin Steak Tips: The star protein of this recipe. These tender bites soak up Cajun spices and stay juicy after searing.
• Cajun Seasoning: Provides bold heat and smoky depth. Adjust the amount depending on your spice preference.
• Penne Pasta: Perfectly shaped to trap the cheesy sauce in every bite.
• Heavy Cream: Gives the parmesan sauce its rich, luxurious base.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds nutty sharpness and creamy depth. Freshly grated is ideal for smoother melting.
• Butter: Helps build the roux and enrich the flavor of the sauce.
• Garlic (Minced): Boosts the savory base of both the steak and the sauce.
• Olive Oil: Used to sear the steak and add richness to the sauce.
• Salt & Pepper: Balances and enhances the other flavors.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional): For garnish, bringing freshness and color.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For extra kick and a touch of heat to finish.

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How To Make the Savory Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Steak Tips

Pat the steak tips dry, then season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a hot skillet until shimmering, then sear the steak tips for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. Set aside to rest.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Build the Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the steak (wipe lightly if needed), melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Slowly whisk in grated parmesan until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 4: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Toss the drained penne into the skillet with the parmesan sauce. Mix until every noodle is coated in cheesy goodness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Assemble and Garnish

Plate the creamy penne and top with Cajun steak tips. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, grated parmesan, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.

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Best Way to Serve and Store This Cajun Steak & Penne Recipe

Serve your Savory Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce hot off the skillet. This dish shines brightest when freshly made—the pasta is creamy and the steak retains its seared edge. Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or some roasted green beans to balance the richness.

If you’re meal-prepping or storing leftovers, keep the steak and pasta in separate containers to maintain texture. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce, and reheat steak tips in a skillet to bring back that charred finish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of beef works best for steak tips?

Sirloin is ideal because it stays tender and cooks quickly, but ribeye or even filet can be used for extra richness.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne holds sauce beautifully, rigatoni or rotini are also great for catching the cheesy parmesan sauce.

Is Cajun seasoning very spicy?

It can be moderately spicy, depending on the brand. You can always adjust the amount or choose a mild blend if you’re sensitive to heat.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the pasta and sauce a day ahead, but sear the steak just before serving to keep it juicy and flavorful.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese can substitute, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Can I grill the steak instead of pan-searing it?

Yes, grilling works great! Just make sure to get a good sear for maximum flavor.

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Want More Cajun Pasta Dinner Ideas?

You might also like the Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli, a creamy skillet pasta with just the right hint of heat. For another beef-forward favorite, check out the Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce, which pairs perfectly with a simple side salad.

If you love bold, Southern-inspired flavor, try my One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta — it’s a cousin to this dish with an extra buttery twist. Craving something cozy? The Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a one-pan comfort classic with layers of smoky richness.

For more recipes like this, don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest @LadyPlate where I share my daily dinner favorites and weeknight inspirations.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dinner boards for next time. Just hit the Pin button at the top.

If you try it, I’d love to know how it went! Did you go spicy with extra flakes? Try it with ribeye? Leave a comment and share your version below. Your kitchen twist might inspire someone else’s next great dinner.

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