Description
Get ready for a flavor-packed dinner idea that’s equal parts bold and comforting. This Ultimate Cajun Steak Tips Pasta recipe brings tender, seared steak tips together with ultra-creamy Cajun mac and cheese in the most satisfying way. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, an easy recipe to impress, or comforting food ideas that deliver every time, this dish checks every box. It’s perfect for weeknight meals, indulgent weekends, or even dinner parties.
Ingredients
1 ½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tbsp butter (optional, for finishing)
12 oz elbow macaroni
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (warm)
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, freshly shredded
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
Dash of hot sauce (optional)
Chopped fresh parsley
Smoked paprika
Extra shredded cheese
Instructions
1. Pat steak dry and season with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it sit 10–15 minutes.
2. Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
3. Heat cast iron skillet on medium-high. Sear steak tips in batches for 2–3 minutes per side. Rest 5 minutes. Optional: toss with butter.
4. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
5. Gradually whisk in warm milk and cream. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
6. Reduce heat. Stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack until melted. Add Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, hot sauce, salt, and pepper.
7. Add cooked pasta to sauce. Stir to coat. Use pasta water to loosen if needed.
8. Plate mac and cheese, top with steak tips, and garnish with parsley, smoked paprika, and extra cheese.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce.
Let steak rest after cooking to keep it juicy.
Adjust Cajun seasoning and hot sauce for preferred spice level.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ~1 ½ cups
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 44g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: quick dinner, easy recipe, cajun pasta, steak mac and cheese, dinner ideas, comfort food, food ideas