Savory Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

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Indulge in a mouthwatering fusion of bold, zesty flavors with this Savory Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce recipe. Perfectly seasoned steak tips are seared to juicy perfection, then nestled atop creamy, cheesy penne pasta drenched in a luscious Parmesan sauce. This dish brings together comfort food warmth and Cajun flair in every bite.

Whether you’re craving something indulgent for a weekend dinner or planning a cozy night-in meal with restaurant-level quality, this dish checks every box. The Cajun seasoning delivers the perfect kick, balanced beautifully by the rich creaminess of the cheese sauce and the tender texture of perfectly cooked penne. You’ll want to savor every forkful.

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

This dish delivers big on both flavor and comfort. The Cajun seasoning adds a lively heat without overpowering the other ingredients. The steak tips are juicy, tender, and bursting with savory goodness, while the penne soaks up every drop of that velvety Parmesan cheese sauce. It’s a restaurant-quality dinner you can whip up right at home without complicated steps.

Perfect for special occasions, casual weeknights, or when you’re looking to impress without the stress. Bonus: it reheats beautifully, making leftovers something to look forward to.

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What Kind of Steak Should I Use for Cajun Steak Tips?

Opt for cuts that are naturally tender and quick-cooking. Sirloin tips, ribeye, or New York strip are great choices. Look for marbled meat to ensure juicy, flavorful bites. If you’re working with tougher cuts, marinate for an hour or more to help tenderize the steak. And don’t forget to let the meat rest after cooking—it locks in the juices and keeps your steak irresistibly moist.

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Ingredients for the Savory Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

Each ingredient in this dish has a delicious purpose, from building deep flavors to creating a creamy, comforting texture. Let’s walk through what you’ll need:

• Steak Tips: Choose a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye. They cook quickly and absorb the Cajun spices well.
• Cajun Seasoning: This brings bold, smoky heat that elevates the steak. You can use store-bought or make your own blend.
• Olive Oil: Essential for searing the steak and adding richness to the pan.
• Garlic: Adds depth and aromatic punch to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Forms the base of the cheese sauce, making it silky and luscious.
• Parmesan Cheese: Nutty and salty, it melts into the cream for that rich cheesy flavor.
• Penne Pasta: Its shape holds the sauce beautifully. You can sub with other tubular pasta if needed.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps emulsify the sauce.
• Salt & Pepper: To enhance and balance all the flavors.

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How To Make the Savory Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Steak Tips

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your steak tips generously with Cajun seasoning. Once the oil is hot, add the steak and sear each side until browned and cooked to your liking, about 4-5 minutes. Remove from pan and let rest.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the steak cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked penne to the cheese sauce and toss to coat evenly. Plate the creamy penne and top with the rested Cajun steak tips. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

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Serving and Storing Savory Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

This recipe generously feeds about 4 people, making it ideal for small gatherings or a hearty family dinner. Serve it hot, straight from the skillet, for the best creamy texture and flavor punch.

To store leftovers, let everything cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving the steak directly to keep it from turning rubbery—heat it gently in a pan if needed.

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

Roasted Asparagus

The charred edges and crisp texture contrast beautifully with the creamy pasta.

Garlic Bread

Ideal for mopping up every last bit of that luscious Parmesan sauce.

Mixed Green Salad

A refreshing, tangy vinaigrette-based salad helps balance the richness of the dish.

Sauteed Spinach

A quick and easy green side dish that pairs nicely with Cajun spices.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet and smoky corn adds a summery touch and extra flavor.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Their caramelized flavor complements both the steak and cheesy sauce.

Tomato and Cucumber Salad

Fresh, crunchy, and light, perfect for cutting through the bold flavors.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the steak and sauce a day ahead. Store them separately in the fridge. Reheat the sauce gently on the stove with a splash of cream, and reheat steak tips in a hot skillet for best texture.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne holds the sauce well, you can use rigatoni, rotini, or even fettuccine. Choose what you have on hand or what your family loves.

3. Is this dish spicy?
The Cajun seasoning gives it a moderate kick. You can adjust the heat by using more or less Cajun spice, or mixing in a bit of smoked paprika for flavor without extra heat.

4. Can I substitute the cream with something lighter?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich. Adding a bit of flour or cornstarch can help thicken it if using lighter dairy.

5. How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free penne and check that your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make it extra spicy or keep it mild? Try it with shrimp instead of steak?

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

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Conclusion

Savory Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce is the kind of dish that hits all the right notes—creamy, spicy, cheesy, and downright comforting. Whether it’s a weeknight indulgence or a dinner to impress, it delivers flavor in every bite. Simple steps, real ingredients, and a bit of love in the pan bring this masterpiece to life.

Give it a try, and it might just become your new favorite dinner idea.

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