Cajun Steak Tips with Linguine in Creamy Parmesan Cheddar-Cajun Sauce
Ingredients:
1 ½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into thick strips or steak tips
1 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced (divided)
2 tsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
12 oz linguine pasta
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
¾ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
4 oz cream cheese (optional, for extra richness)
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
½ tsp Italian seasoning
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine until al dente according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in heavy cream and milk, whisking until smooth. Lower the heat and add cheddar, Parmesan, and cream cheese, stirring until the sauce is thick and creamy. Season with Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss in the linguine, coating every strand. Add a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
3. Pat the steak tips dry with paper towels. Season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the steak tips in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your liking. Drop in 3 tablespoons butter and the remaining garlic, then baste the steak with the garlic butter for 1–2 minutes.
4. Plate the cheesy Cajun linguine on one side and the garlic butter steak tips on the other. Spoon over the pan butter and garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~860 per serving