Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce

Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe showcases tender steak tips enveloped in a luscious Parmesan sauce over penne pasta. With its bold Cajun seasoning and cheesy goodness, it’s sure to be a hit at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed experience: The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick that elevates the entire dish.
• Quick preparation: Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe fits perfectly into busy schedules.
• Creamy comfort food: The creamy Parmesan sauce brings warmth and satisfaction to every bite.
• Versatile ingredients: Easily modify with different proteins or pasta types to suit your taste.
• Impressive presentation: Serve it garnished with fresh parsley for a restaurant-quality look at home.

Tools and Preparation

To create the best Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce, having the right tools makes all the difference.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking of the steak tips, sealing in their juices.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A large pot helps achieve the perfect al dente texture by allowing ample space for the penne.

Ingredients

For the Steak Tips

• 1 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Cheesy Parmesan Penne

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, to tie the flavor together
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the cooking water.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak Tips

Season the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preference.
Add butter during the final minute and baste the steak pieces. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Sauté minced garlic for about a minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring until smooth.
Add cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, and an extra teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir until thickened; add reserved pasta water if necessary for desired consistency.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Toss cooked penne into the creamy sauce until well coated.
Return seared steak tips to the skillet and stir gently to combine everything evenly.
Allow it to warm together for about one or two minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Top with freshly chopped parsley for garnish before serving hot. Enjoy your flavorful meal!

How to Serve Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce

Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce is a delicious dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the steak tips and penne over a bed of fresh spinach or arugula for a refreshing contrast.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair the dish with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce and enhance the meal.

Topped with Extra Cheese

• Add more freshly grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of mozzarella on top just before serving for an extra cheesy delight.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with additional chopped parsley or basil to brighten the flavors and add a pop of color.

How to Perfect Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce

Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Choose Quality Meat: Use high-quality sirloin or ribeye steak tips for tender and flavorful bites.
• Don’t Overcook the Steak: Sear the steak just until browned, ensuring it remains juicy and tender.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Save some pasta cooking water; it helps adjust the sauce’s consistency without losing flavor.
• Cream Cheese Smoothness: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to ensure a smooth sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning, especially with Cajun spice, to suit your palate before serving.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best served hot right after preparation for maximum creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce

Complement your Cajun Steak Tips with these delightful side dishes. Each adds its own unique flavor and texture to your meal.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the rich flavors of the steak.
2. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provides a healthy contrast.
3. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing pairs well with the hearty pasta.
4. Coleslaw – A crunchy, tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the main dish.
5. Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and juiciness, enhancing every bite of steak tips.
6. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce even better. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the steak tips properly can lead to bland flavors. Be generous with your Cajun seasoning and other spices to enhance the dish’s taste.
• Overcooking the steak: Cooking the steak for too long can make it tough. Aim for medium rare to medium for tender results, cooking it for just 3-4 minutes per side.
• Ignoring pasta water: Discarding all the pasta cooking water can rob your sauce of its creamy texture. Reserve some of the water to add back into the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Not letting sauces simmer: Rushing the sauce preparation can prevent flavors from developing. Allow the cream and cheese mixture to simmer gently for a few minutes for a richer flavor.
• Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that affect melting. Use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella for a smoother consistency in your sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in an airtight container.
• Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce

• Place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover lightly, and heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes), stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce:

Can I substitute chicken for steak?

Yes, you can use chicken breast or thighs instead of steak tips. Just adjust cooking times accordingly until fully cooked.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.

How do I customize my Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses such as gouda or cheddar for different flavor profiles.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spiciness depends on the amount of Cajun seasoning used. Adjust according to your preference!

Final Thoughts

Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Cheese Sauce is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for dinner any night of the week. This recipe offers versatility; you can easily customize it by adding vegetables or swapping proteins. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to impress!