Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

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Bold, spicy, and smothered in creamy cheese sauce, these Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce are the kind of dinner that hits every craving. Think tender bites of beef, seared to perfection, coated in rich Cajun seasoning, then folded into a luxurious penne pasta coated in cheesy parmesan bliss.

It’s the ultimate comfort food with a kick—hearty, flavorful, and perfect for when you need a satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on bold taste. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or to impress at a weekend gathering, this recipe delivers serious flavor in every bite.

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

This dish brings together two fan-favorites: juicy steak and creamy pasta. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something comforting but still elevated. The Cajun seasoning adds just the right amount of heat, while the cheesy parmesan sauce balances it with a rich, creamy texture. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner and indulgent enough for a weekend treat.

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What Cut of Steak Works Best for Steak Tips?

For this recipe, sirloin steak tips or ribeye chunks are ideal. They stay tender when seared quickly and absorb the bold Cajun spices beautifully. You want a cut that stays juicy and flavorful without needing long cooking times—just a hot pan and a good sear to lock in all the flavor.

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Ingredients for the Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

Each ingredient in this recipe has a delicious purpose, from flavor to texture. Choosing high-quality and fresh items will elevate the final dish.

• Steak Tips: These are the stars of the show. Choose tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye for maximum flavor and quick cooking.
• Cajun Seasoning: This brings the heat and a deep, smoky spice. Adjust the amount depending on your spice preference.
• Penne Pasta: The tube shape holds the cheesy sauce perfectly, giving every bite a rich flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Forms the base of the creamy parmesan sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated fresh, it adds nuttiness and saltiness to the sauce.
• Garlic: Adds depth and a savory foundation to both the steak and sauce.
• Butter: Helps with searing the steak and gives richness to the sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: Enhances all the other flavors.
• Olive Oil: A neutral fat for searing steak without burning.

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How To Make the Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Steak

Toss steak tips in Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet. Sear steak tips on high heat until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, cook penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt more butter and sauté garlic. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in parmesan cheese until smooth and thickened.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add cooked penne and steak tips into the cheesy sauce. Stir gently to combine and coat everything evenly.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Garnish with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

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Serving and Storing Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

This dish serves about 4 people generously, making it perfect for a small dinner party or a flavorful family meal. Leftovers reheat well and can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and warm gently over the stove or in the microwave.

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

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread makes a delicious side to soak up the extra cheesy sauce.

Roasted Broccoli

Its earthy flavor and crisp texture offer a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad with creamy dressing balances the richness of the dish.

Grilled Asparagus

Slightly charred asparagus spears add freshness and color to the plate.

Pickled Jalapeños

If you love heat, adding a few slices of pickled jalapeños on the side enhances the Cajun kick.

Sweet Corn

Lightly buttered and seasoned, sweet corn complements the spicy steak beautifully.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Add earthy umami and texture with pan-sautéed mushrooms.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook the steak and sauce ahead, but boil the pasta fresh to avoid mushiness. Combine everything just before serving for best results.

Is this dish very spicy?
It has a medium kick, thanks to the Cajun seasoning. To reduce the heat, simply use less seasoning or opt for a mild Cajun blend.

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is great for holding the sauce, you can substitute it with rigatoni, fettuccine, or even rotini.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may be slightly less rich and thick. Add a bit of flour to thicken if needed.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to a month. The texture may change slightly upon reheating, so reheat slowly and stir well.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the Cajun seasoning or keep it mild? Did you try a different pasta?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated bold and flavorful dishes on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for comfort food!

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Conclusion

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce is one of those crowd-pleasing meals that’s comforting, spicy, creamy, and just plain delicious. It’s easy enough for weeknights yet feels indulgent enough for a special weekend meal. Try it once, and it might just earn a permanent place in your recipe rotation.

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