Description

Indulgent Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish combining tender sirloin steak tips seasoned with aromatic Cajun spices and smoky paprika, served over perfectly cooked penne pasta enveloped in a creamy Parmesan cheese sauce. This recipe offers a quick 30-minute meal packed with bold flavors and creamy textures, ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

8 oz Penne Pasta

Steak and Seasoning

1 lb Sirloin Steak Tips
2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning
1 tsp Smoked Paprika

Sauce

1 cup Heavy Cream
1 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated
2 tbsp Butter
1 tbsp Olive Oil
3 cloves Garlic, minced

Garnish

2 tbsp Parsley, chopped

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta for 9 to 11 minutes until al dente. Reserve half a cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the Steak Tips: Pat the sirloin steak tips dry with paper towels. Coat them evenly with the Cajun seasoning. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak tips for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until well caramelized. Transfer the cooked steak tips to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add Cheese and Season: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese into the cream sauce until it melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding salt or additional Cajun seasoning if needed.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, using the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency.
Serve: Plate the cheesy penne pasta, top it with the Cajun steak tips, and garnish with a sprinkle of smoked paprika and fresh parsley for color and an extra smoky touch.

Notes

Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency without thinning the flavor.
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated for a smoother sauce texture.
Pat steak tips dry thoroughly to ensure proper searing and caramelization.
Adjust Cajun seasoning level based on your preferred spice tolerance.
Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy sauce at its best texture.