Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Parmesan Cheese Sauce
Ingredients:
1½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Cheesy Parmesan Penne:
12 oz penne pasta
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups heavy cream
½ cup whole milk
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ tsp Cajun seasoning (to tie the flavor together)
Salt & pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, then drain. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water and set aside.
2. Pat the steak tips dry with paper towels. In a bowl, coat them with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well so the seasoning clings to every piece.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips in a single layer and sear for 3–4 minutes per side until browned and caramelized. During the last minute, drop in the butter and spoon it over the steak for a rich finish. Transfer the steak to a plate and cover loosely.
4. Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream and milk. Whisk in cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add Parmesan and mozzarella gradually, stirring until the sauce is creamy and thick. Mix in the Cajun seasoning, then taste and adjust with salt and pepper. If the sauce feels too heavy, loosen it with a splash of pasta water.
6. Add the cooked penne to the skillet and stir until the pasta is coated in the cheesy sauce.
7. Return the steak tips to the pan and fold everything together. Let it warm for 1–2 minutes so the flavors meld.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot, making sure to spoon plenty of sauce over each serving.
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4