Name: Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1.25 lb sirloin steak, sliced into bite-size strips; 12 oz penne pasta; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp butter (for sauce); 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder

Description

Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta, a delightful dish that seamlessly blends bold Cajun flavors with tender steak and a luxurious cheese sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

1.25 lb sirloin steak, sliced into bite-size strips
12 oz penne pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp butter (for sauce)
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder

Instructions

Step: Cook the penne pasta in salted water until tender; drain and set aside.
Step: Toss the steak strips with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Step: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the butter, and sear the steak for 2 to 3 minutes per side until browned.
Step: Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, then remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step: In the same skillet, melt more butter for the sauce, whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
Step: Slowly add heavy cream and milk while whisking until smooth; let simmer until slightly thickened.
Step: Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese until the sauce becomes thick and ultra-creamy.
Step: Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step: Add cooked pasta to the skillet with sauce and toss to coat evenly.
Step: Top with Cajun steak; gently mix or leave layered for presentation.
Step: Garnish with parsley, extra cheese, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

For a lighter option, you may use half-and-half or coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid clumping.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300g)
Calories: 730 kcal
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 850 mg
Fat: 48 g
Saturated Fat: 24 g
Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 56 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 36 g
Cholesterol: 150 mg

Keywords: Cajun steak penne, creamy pasta, cheesy steak dinner, one-skillet meal