Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

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Tender, spice-kissed Cajun steak tips meet creamy, dreamy pasta in this bold and comforting dish. Imagine bite-sized pieces of seared steak with that signature smoky heat, nestled in a cheesy Parmesan sauce that clings to every twist of penne. The contrast of rich, velvety cheese with the punchy Cajun seasoning creates a balance that’s indulgent without being overwhelming.

This dish is ideal for weeknights when you want something exciting but not overly complicated. It brings together the hearty satisfaction of a steak dinner with the creamy allure of a pasta bowl—making it perfect for those nights when you just can’t choose. It’s an easy dinner idea that satisfies both meat-lovers and pasta fans in one swoop.

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

• Bold flavor meets creamy comfort: The Cajun spice adds heat and personality, while the cheese sauce soothes and satisfies.
• One-pan simplicity: Minimal cleanup with a streamlined cooking process—ideal for busy evenings.
• Customizable heat level: You control the spice—make it as fiery or mild as you like.
• Restaurant-quality at home: It looks and tastes fancy, but you don’t need a culinary degree to pull it off.
• Perfect for leftovers: Reheats beautifully, making lunch the next day something to look forward to.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment + Their Importance)

Before diving into the bold flavors of Cajun steak tips and the velvety Parmesan sauce, it’s key to have the right tools on hand. The following equipment helps streamline the process and ensures every component is cooked to perfection:

• Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Pan – Crucial for getting that beautiful sear on the steak tips. The high heat retention delivers a deep, caramelized crust that locks in juices and flavor.
• Large Saucepan or Deep Skillet – You’ll need this for preparing the cheesy Parmesan sauce and mixing in the penne. A pan with high sides prevents splattering and allows room for thorough mixing.
• Pot for Boiling Pasta – Simple, but necessary. Use a large pot with plenty of salted water to ensure the penne cooks evenly without clumping.
• Tongs or a Slotted Spoon – For flipping steak tips without piercing the meat, helping retain all that flavorful juice.
• Whisk – Essential for making a smooth cheese sauce. A whisk prevents clumps and helps the cheese emulsify perfectly.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board – You’ll need these to trim and cube the steak efficiently.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accuracy matters, especially for the seasoning and sauce components.

Having everything ready before you start cooking is half the battle—mise en place keeps you organized and stress-free.

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Preparation Tips

• Trim the Steak Well: Remove any silver skin or large fat pockets from the steak tips so they cook evenly and stay tender.
• Pat Meat Dry Before Seasoning: This helps the Cajun spices stick and ensures a great sear in the pan.
• Preheat Your Pan: Especially if you’re using cast iron—get it hot before adding the steak to avoid steaming instead of searing.
• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make sauces grainy. Grate your own for a smoother, richer sauce.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercooked pasta will finish in the sauce, absorbing flavor without getting mushy.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Save at least ½ cup before draining—it helps thin out the sauce if needed while adding extra creaminess.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Sear steak in batches if necessary to get that deep, golden crust.

These small prep details make a major difference when it’s time to bring everything together.

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Ingredients for Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

For the Cajun Steak Tips:

• 1 ½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Cheesy Parmesan Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for extra meltiness)
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for subtle warmth)
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz penne pasta, cooked al dente
• ½ cup reserved pasta water, as needed to adjust sauce consistency

Garnish (Optional):

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Extra Parmesan cheese for topping
• Red pepper flakes, if you want more heat

These ingredients come together to create a flavorful, comforting dish that’s ideal for dinner ideas when you want something indulgent but simple to make.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

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Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak Tips

In a bowl, toss the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Heat a cast iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and butter.
Once the butter is melted and sizzling, sear the steak tips in batches (to avoid overcrowding), about 2–3 minutes per side, until nicely browned and cooked to your preferred doneness.
Transfer the steak tips to a plate and loosely tent with foil to rest.

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Step 3: Make the Parmesan Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan or deep skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
Whisk in 2 tbsp flour and cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
Gradually whisk in warm milk, followed by the heavy cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Let it simmer until slightly thickened (about 3–4 minutes), then stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
Season with nutmeg (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.

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Step 4: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add the cooked penne directly into the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat every piece.
If the sauce is too thick, gradually add a bit of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

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Step 5: Add Cajun Steak Tips and Finish

Gently fold the seared steak tips into the cheesy pasta. Heat everything together for another 1–2 minutes, just to bring the flavors together.
Top with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, or red pepper flakes for an extra kick, if desired.

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This is the kind of dish that draws a crowd to the table before it even hits the plate.

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Notes

• Choose the Right Cut: Sirloin or ribeye are both flavorful and tender options for steak tips. Just avoid lean cuts like round steak, which can turn tough.
• Cheese Quality Matters: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a smoother, more luxurious sauce.
• Customize the Heat: If your Cajun seasoning is extra spicy, adjust the amount to suit your taste or mix in a bit of brown sugar to balance the heat.
• Leftovers Are Golden: The sauce may thicken after refrigeration—just add a splash of milk or cream while reheating to bring it back to life.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Skipping the Meat Rest: Letting the steak tips rest after searing ensures juices redistribute and stay in the meat—not on the plate.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Steak won’t sear if it’s steaming. Always give each piece space to brown properly.
• Using Cold Dairy in Sauce: Cold milk or cream can cause the sauce to break. Warm your liquids before adding to the roux.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Remember, it finishes in the sauce—keep it al dente for the perfect texture.
• Adding Cheese Too Fast: Dumping cheese into the sauce too quickly can make it clump. Add gradually and stir until fully melted.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: These often contain anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Grate it fresh.
• Neglecting Seasoning: The cheese brings salt, but always taste and adjust with extra seasoning to balance the richness.
• Reheating Without Liquid: The sauce will tighten up in the fridge. Add a touch of milk or pasta water when reheating to revive the creaminess.

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

This dish is rich, bold, and satisfying—but pairing it with the right sides can take the whole meal to the next level. Here’s what complements it beautifully:

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread or Toasted Baguette

Perfect for soaking up any extra cheese sauce—crispy on the outside, buttery on the inside.

2. Simple Arugula Salad

The peppery bite of arugula with a light lemon vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the pasta.

3. Roasted Broccoli or Brussels Sprouts

Their earthy flavors and crispy edges offer a great contrast to the creamy sauce.

4. Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest

Adds freshness and brightness that balances the Cajun spice.

5. Creamed Spinach

If you want to double down on creamy comfort, this rich veggie side pairs perfectly with the steak tips.

6. Cornbread Muffins

A Southern-inspired twist that goes beautifully with Cajun flavors.

7. Pickled Vegetables

Add acidity and crunch with quick-pickled onions or cucumbers—it balances the cheese-heavy dish.

8. Glass of Red Wine or Cajun-Inspired Cocktail

Try a bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon or a spicy Bloody Mary to complement the heat and richness.

These additions create a full, well-rounded dinner experience that’s both exciting and comforting.

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Storage Instructions

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce stores well, making it a great make-ahead or leftover meal.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, and the steak stays tender when properly reheated.
• Freezer: While the steak freezes fine, the creamy Parmesan sauce may separate or become grainy after thawing. If freezing, do so without the sauce and remake the sauce fresh when serving.
• To Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave on medium power in short intervals, stirring frequently. Avoid high heat to prevent cheese from breaking.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 4 servings total)

• Calories: ~720 kcal
• Protein: 39g
• Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 19g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Fiber: 3g
• Cholesterol: 130mg
• Sodium: 750mg

Note: Nutrition values are estimated and may vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne holds the sauce well, but you can use rigatoni, fettuccine, rotini, or even elbow macaroni. Just avoid overly delicate noodles like angel hair.

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2. What cut of steak works best for this dish?

Sirloin and ribeye are top choices for their balance of flavor and tenderness. Flank steak or NY strip can work too—just slice against the grain.

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3. Is the dish very spicy?

That depends on your Cajun seasoning. Some blends are mild, while others bring serious heat. Taste and adjust, or make your own mix to control the spice level.

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4. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. You can cook the steak and pasta a day ahead and refrigerate them separately. Make the sauce fresh and combine everything when ready to serve for best texture.

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5. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute with half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. Add a bit of cream cheese or extra Parmesan to thicken if needed.

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6. Can I use pre-cooked steak tips?

Yes, but fresh is best. If using pre-cooked steak, just warm them in the sauce at the end to avoid overcooking and drying them out.

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7. How can I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (1 tbsp cornstarch = 2 tbsp flour). Make sure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free too.

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8. Can I make this vegetarian?

You can! Replace the steak with roasted mushrooms, tofu, or plant-based meat alternatives. The sauce and pasta stay the same for a delicious veggie version.

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Conclusion

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce is the kind of dish that satisfies cravings you didn’t know you had—bold, creamy, and hearty all in one pan. It’s easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough to serve guests. From its smoky, spice-rubbed steak bites to the luxuriously cheesy pasta, it delivers big on flavor with very little fuss. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner idea or a new weeknight favorite, this easy recipe deserves a spot on your regular rotation.

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