Description
Looking for bold dinner ideas that combine spice and comfort? Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce is your new go-to. This easy dinner recipe features juicy, spice-rubbed steak bites seared to perfection and tossed in a creamy, cheesy Parmesan sauce with al dente penne pasta. It’s a quick dinner idea that delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under an hour. Whether you’re after hearty food ideas or an indulgent but simple dish, this one hits every mark. A top choice for easy recipes that impress!
Ingredients
1 ½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
12 oz penne pasta
½ cup reserved pasta water
Chopped fresh parsley
Extra Parmesan cheese
Red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining. Set aside.
2. In a bowl, toss steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high. Add olive oil and butter, then sear steak tips in batches, 2–3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate to rest.
4. In a separate deep skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
5. Gradually whisk in warm milk and heavy cream. Simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Season with nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
7. Add cooked penne to the sauce and toss to coat. Use reserved pasta water to thin sauce if needed.
8. Gently fold in steak tips and cook everything together for 1–2 minutes to blend flavors.
9. Serve hot with parsley, extra Parmesan, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for a silky, melt-in-your-mouth sauce.
Let the steak rest after searing to keep it juicy and tender.
Add a splash of milk when reheating to revive the creamy texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: easy dinner, steak pasta, cheesy penne, Cajun recipe, comfort food