Rich, creamy, and full of bold flavor, Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food with a southern kick. This dish brings together juicy seared steak bites seasoned to perfection with Cajun spices, paired with tender penne pasta smothered in a luxurious cheesy Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a cozy dinner that tastes like something you’d order at a high-end bistro but takes surprisingly little effort to make at home.

Whether you’re cooking for a special date night or simply craving a deeply satisfying meal, this recipe is a knockout. The combination of smoky Cajun heat and velvety cheese sauce creates a harmony that will make your tastebuds dance. Plus, it’s a complete meal on one plate—hearty, cheesy, and irresistibly creamy.

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

Bold Flavor: The Cajun seasoning brings a warm, smoky spice that perfectly complements the richness of the cheese.
Creamy & Comforting: The Parmesan sauce is thick, velvety, and coats every bite of pasta with cheesy goodness.
Hearty Protein: Tender, juicy steak tips seared to perfection add a savory punch and a satisfying chew.
Easy to Impress: It’s a restaurant-quality dish you can easily whip up in your own kitchen.
Perfect Pairing: Steak and creamy pasta? It doesn’t get more indulgent than that.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment:

Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy-Bottomed Pan for a beautiful sear on steak tips.
Large Saucepan for boiling penne pasta evenly.
Whisk to blend Parmesan sauce smoothly.
Tongs to flip steak easily.
Grater for fresh Parmesan.
Strainer for quick pasta draining.

Prep your tools ahead to keep the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Ingredients for the Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

Steak Tips: Ribeye or sirloin for tender bites.
Penne Pasta: Holds creamy sauce well.
Heavy Cream: Base of the velvety sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, salty, cheesy flavor.
Cajun Seasoning: Smoky heat to spice things up.
Garlic: Savory aromatics.
Butter & Olive Oil: For searing and flavor.
Salt & Pepper: Enhances everything.
Parsley (optional): Garnish for freshness.

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

Step 1: Sear the Steak Tips

Season steak with Cajun spices, salt, and pepper. Sear in hot butter and oil until browned. Set aside.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Cook penne in salted water until al dente. Reserve pasta water and drain.

Step 3: Make the Parmesan Sauce

Sauté garlic in butter, add cream and simmer. Whisk in Parmesan and Cajun seasoning. Thin with pasta water if needed.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss penne in the sauce until evenly coated.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Plate pasta and top with seared steak. Garnish and enjoy hot!

How to Serve and Store Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

Serve hot with a fresh salad or crusty garlic bread.
Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream.
Avoid freezing as the sauce may separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of steak is best?

Sirloin or ribeye offer the best texture and flavor.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Add cream cheese to thicken.

Is it very spicy?

Mild heat, but can be adjusted with seasoning.

Can I prep ahead?

Cook pasta and steak ahead, then make sauce fresh before serving.

Parmesan substitute?

Try Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano.

Best way to reheat?

Gently warm sauce and pasta, then add steak at the end.

Want More Pasta and Steak Ideas?

If you’re loving the bold flavors in this dish, check out these other savory favorites from Kitchen by Kate:

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Let me know how yours turned out in the comments! Did you add mushrooms or extra spice? I love seeing your takes on this dish. Questions welcome too—let’s make dinner amazing together.

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

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Author: Kate Walton
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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Description

This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce recipe is the ultimate creamy comfort food! Tender Cajun-seasoned steak tips, cheesy Parmesan pasta, and a bold, velvety sauce combine for a flavorful, one-skillet dinner. Ideal for weeknights, romantic meals, or anyone craving Cajun pasta with steak.