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If you are craving a meal that perfectly combines bold spices, tender steak, and a luscious cheesy sauce, this Indulgent Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce Recipe is going to become your next favorite dinner. The succulent sirloin steak tips, generously kissed by smoky Cajun flavors, paired with creamy Parmesan-coated penne, create an irresistible harmony of texture and taste that feels comforting yet exciting. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish promises richness, warmth, and plenty of satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple with ingredients that are easy to find but each plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and creamy texture. From the hearty steak to the silky sauce, every component adds to the magic of this Indulgent Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce Recipe.
- 1 pound Sirloin Steak Tips: Tender and juicy cuts are best here; avoid overcooking to keep them flavorful and moist.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning: The star spice blend that delivers smoky, spicy depth and authentic Cajun character.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Adds subtle garlicky undertones; you can substitute fresh garlic for more punch.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder: Brings sweet, savory notes; fresh sautéed onions can work if you prefer extra texture.
- 8 ounces Penne Pasta: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce thanks to its tubular shape and texture.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream: Creates a rich, velvety sauce; using half-and-half lightens it up slightly without losing creaminess.
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better, adding nutty, savory brightness to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons Butter: Essential for searing the steak tips and enriching the creamy sauce base.
- 2 tablespoons Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley gives a burst of color and a touch of freshness at the end.
- 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper: Offers an extra kick of heat that balances the creaminess beautifully.
- Salt & Pepper to taste: Simple yet crucial for rounding out all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Indulgent Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Season the Steak Tips
Start by generously coating your sirloin steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. This simple step infuses the beef with a smoky, aromatic layer of flavor that will stand out once cooked. Let the meat rest for about 20 minutes so the spices can deeply penetrate, resulting in a more vibrant taste.
Step 2: Cook the Penne Pasta
While the steak is resting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until it’s al dente – firm but tender, usually about 9 to 11 minutes. Drain the pasta, but don’t forget to reserve a quarter cup of the pasta water. This starchy water will be your secret weapon later when you mix the sauce, helping it cling perfectly to the pasta.
Step 3: Sear the Steak Tips
Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until melted and shimmering, then add the seasoned steak tips. Sear them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, creating a caramelized crust that locks in juiciness. Getting this nice sear is crucial – it adds rich flavor and texture that complements the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Create the Parmesan Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low, then pour in the heavy cream to deglaze the pan, scraping up any tasty browned bits left from the steak. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper for a little heat. The cheese will melt smoothly into the cream, creating a thick, rich sauce that’s bursting with cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Steak
Add the drained penne pasta directly into the sauce, tossing to coat each piece beautifully. If the sauce feels too thick, slowly stir in some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Next, fold in the seared steak tips and heat everything together for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld and the dish is served warm.
How to Serve Indulgent Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley generously over the top for a vibrant pop of green and a fresh, herbaceous note that brightens the rich dish. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper if you want to elevate the heat and add a contrasting punch of color.
Side Dishes
To balance out the indulgence of this dish, consider serving it with a light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed green vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. These add a fresh crunch and subtle flavors that complement the creamy Cajun sauce perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta and steak tips in shallow bowls topped with a handful of toasted breadcrumbs for extra texture. Or, plate the steak tips separately on the side with a drizzle of sauce over the penne for an elegant look that lets everyone customize their bites.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making subsequent meals just as delightful.
Freezing
You can freeze this Indulgent Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce Recipe in portions. Use freezer-safe containers and consume within 2 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help restore the sauce’s creaminess if needed.
FAQs
Can I use another cut of steak for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin steak tips are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, you can substitute with ribeye or flank steak, but be careful not to overcook tougher cuts to maintain juiciness.
Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?
Yes, simply reduce or omit the crushed red pepper and adjust the Cajun seasoning amount to suit your taste. You can also choose a milder Cajun blend to keep the heat gentle.
Can I substitute the heavy cream for a lighter option?
You can swap heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk for a lighter sauce, though it won’t be quite as rich or thick. Adding a small amount of flour or cornstarch can help thicken the sauce if needed.
What type of Parmesan cheese works best?
Freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano is preferred for its superior melting qualities and deep flavor. Avoid pre-grated powders that don’t melt as well and can affect texture.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
This entire Indulgent Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce Recipe takes about 55 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect weeknight treat that feels special without being complicated.
Final Thoughts
This Indulgent Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce Recipe is a wonderful invitation to indulge in a dish that’s flavorful, comforting, and so satisfying you’ll want to make it again and again. The combination of tender, spicy steak with creamy, cheesy pasta creates a celebration on your plate that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed how simple ingredients can come together into something truly extraordinary.
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Indulgent Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Indulgent Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish combining tender, perfectly seared sirloin steak tips with creamy Parmesan sauce and al dente penne pasta. The smoky Cajun seasoning paired with a smooth, cheesy sauce creates a comforting meal perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 pound Sirloin Steak Tips (Tender and juicy, avoid overcooking)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning (Essential for smoky flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Or fresh garlic as a substitute)
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Or sautéed fresh onions for texture)
- Salt & Pepper to taste (Essential for flavor balance)
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 ounces Penne Pasta (Holds the creamy sauce well)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (For a rich sauce, use half-and-half for lighter)
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated melts better)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (For searing and enriching the sauce)
- 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper (For added heat)
- 2 tablespoons Parsley (Chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Steak: Generously season the sirloin steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let the steak rest for 20 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook for 9-11 minutes until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1/4 cup of the pasta cooking water to help loosen the sauce later if needed.
- Sear the Steak: In a skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Sear the steak tips for 2-3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust but remain tender inside. Remove the steak tips from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the heavy cream to the same skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper for some heat.
- Combine Pasta and Steak: Add the cooked penne pasta to the creamy sauce and stir well to coat. Fold in the seared steak tips and heat everything together for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors and warm the steak through.
- Serve and Garnish: Serve the cheesy penne and steak tips in bowls, garnished with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of crushed red pepper if desired. Enjoy this indulgent, flavorful dish warm.
Notes
- Resting the steak after seasoning helps intensify the flavors.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if it becomes too thick.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper to your preferred heat level.
- For lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lower fat cream alternative.
- Serve immediately after preparation for best texture and flavor.
