Cajun Steak Tips Penne Parmesan

This soul-satisfying pasta dish brings together tender, spice-rubbed steak tips with an incredibly rich, multi-cheese sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of penne. The Cajun seasonings create the perfect amount of heat and flavor complexity, while the combination of cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan delivers that luxurious, restaurant-quality richness we all crave. Every bite balances the bold spices with creamy comfort, making this the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table with genuine excitement.

The first time I made this for a friend who claimed she didn't like spicy food, I watched her go back for seconds and then ask for the recipe. Now it's become my secret weapon for converting spice-skeptics and impressing dinner guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The magic happens when that perfectly seared steak meets the creamy, cheesy sauce - it's comfort food at its absolute finest.

Essential Components

• Sirloin or ribeye steak tips: Choose well-marbled cuts for maximum tenderness and flavor that holds up to bold seasonings
• Quality olive oil: Extra virgin provides the best flavor for searing and adds richness to the final dish
• Real butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over salt levels while adding incomparable richness
• Fresh Cajun seasoning: Look for quality blends with paprika, garlic, cayenne, and herbs for authentic Southern flavor
• Penne pasta: The tube shape holds the cheese sauce perfectly, though any substantial pasta works well
• Fresh garlic: Minced fresh provides the most aromatic and flavorful results in the sauce
• Heavy cream and whole milk: Full-fat dairy creates the silkiest, most luxurious sauce texture
• Cream cheese: Adds tangy body and helps create that incredibly smooth, velvety consistency
• Freshly grated cheeses: Parmesan for sharp, nutty flavor and mozzarella for stretchy, gooey texture
• Fresh parsley: Flat-leaf variety provides the best color and flavor for finishing

Detailed Cooking Process

Pasta Preparation:

Bring a large pot of heavily salted water to a rolling boil and cook penne just until al dente, maintaining a slight bite since it will finish cooking in the sauce. Reserve about half a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining - this becomes crucial for achieving perfect sauce consistency.

Steak Seasoning:

Combine steak tips with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Toss thoroughly to coat every piece evenly and let them sit while preparing other ingredients, allowing the spices time to penetrate the meat for maximum flavor.

Steak Searing:

Heat a large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Place seasoned steak tips in a single layer and sear undisturbed for three to four minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms. Add a pat of butter during the final minute and baste the steak with a spoon for extra flavor and shine.

Sauce Foundation:

Remove steak to a plate and reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet and sauté minced garlic for about one minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should become fragrant but not take on color.

Cream Base Creation:

Pour heavy cream and milk into the skillet with the garlic, then add softened cream cheese. Whisk constantly until the cream cheese melts completely and the mixture becomes silky smooth without any lumps.

Cheese Integration:

Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese along with additional Cajun seasoning to tie all flavors together. Let the mixture bubble gently until thickened and incredibly cheesy, adding reserved pasta water gradually if the sauce becomes too thick.

Final Assembly:

Add drained penne to the cheese sauce and gently fold in the seared steak tips along with any accumulated juices. Let everything cook together for one to two minutes so the pasta can absorb the flavors while the steak warms through.

Finishing Touches:

Serve immediately in warmed bowls, sprinkled with fresh parsley for color and brightness. For extra indulgence, top with additional cheese and place under the broiler until bubbly and lightly golden.

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This indulgent dish has become my favorite way to create a satisfying dinner that keeps everyone full and energized. The substantial protein from the steak means it's incredibly filling, and I love knowing that we're getting quality nutrition along with all that comfort food satisfaction. Even my health-conscious friends appreciate how this delivers restaurant-quality flavors in a homemade meal.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this rich pasta alongside a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creamy richness, or pair with roasted broccoli or sautéed zucchini for colorful contrast. Warm garlic bread becomes essential for soaking up any extra sauce, while a light red wine or sparkling water with lemon provides refreshing balance to the bold, cheesy flavors.

Creative Variations

Transform this dish by substituting boneless chicken thighs for a lighter protein option, or use mushrooms for a vegetarian version that still provides substantial flavor. Different pasta shapes like rigatoni or shells work beautifully, while adding sweet corn kernels or garden tomatoes during summer months creates seasonal variety. For extra heat, incorporate diced jalapeños with the garlic.

Storage Solutions

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days, where the flavors actually meld and improve. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore the silky sauce consistency, avoiding high heat which can cause separation. The dish also freezes well for up to one month, though the sauce may need gentle stirring after thawing.

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This recipe has taught me that some of the most satisfying comfort foods come from combining bold flavors with luxurious textures in perfect harmony. The spicy Cajun seasonings balanced by rich, creamy cheese creates something that feels both familiar and exciting. Every time I make this, I'm reminded that the best family dinners often come from taking quality ingredients and treating them with care to create something truly memorable that brings everyone together around the table.

Recipe FAQs

→ What cut of steak works best for this recipe?

Sirloin or ribeye steak tips work great. Cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating.

→ Can I use pre-grated cheese instead of fresh?

Fresh grated Parmesan melts much better and creates a smoother sauce. Pre-grated has anti-caking agents that can make it grainy.

→ How do I prevent the cream sauce from breaking?

Keep the heat at medium and stir constantly when adding the cheese. Don't let it boil or the sauce may curdle.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This is best served fresh, but you can prep the steak seasoning and cook the pasta ahead. Reheat gently with extra cream if needed.

→ What if my sauce gets too thick?

Use the reserved pasta water to thin it out. Add a splash at a time until you reach the perfect consistency.