Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta

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Creamy Cajun steak penne pasta dish garnished with herbs
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Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta

Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender steak with rich, creamy sauce and pasta. This recipe is perfect for a satisfying dinner that your whole family will enjoy. With its bold flavors and comforting textures, it’s a meal that brings a taste of the South right to your kitchen.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not only delicious but also quick to prepare. It brings together the smoky spice of Cajun seasoning and the creaminess of heavy cream, making each bite flavorful and satisfying. It’s a great option for weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering a unique twist on traditional pasta dishes. Plus, it’s sure to impress your friends and family!

How to Make Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb sirloin or flank steak, sliced into strips
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

I. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
II. Season steak strips with Cajun seasoning.
III. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from pan and set aside.
IV. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
V. Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
VI. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Top with seared steak strips.
VII. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta

Serve the pasta hot, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side for those who like a cheesy finish. Pair it with a green salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal experience. This dish also goes well with a glass of white wine or iced tea.

How to Store Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for about 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or stovetop until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of cream or water to help loosen the sauce.

Tips to Make Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta

  • Be careful not to overcook the steak; it should be tender and juicy.
  • Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
  • You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a richer taste.

Variations

For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or use a plant-based cream alternative. You can also use chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a different protein option.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like. Fettuccine or linguine would work great!

2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Just store the pasta and sauce separately to keep everything fresh.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best fresh, you can make the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just combine and heat before serving.

4. What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own blend using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano.

Enjoy your cooking! Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta

  • Author: olivia
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten-Free
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Description

A delightful dish that combines tender steak with rich, creamy sauce and pasta, perfect for a comforting dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb sirloin or flank steak, sliced into strips
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season steak strips with Cajun seasoning.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2–3 minutes per side, until browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from pan and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and stir in Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Top with seared steak strips.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Be careful not to overcook the steak; it should be tender and juicy. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference. For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or plant-based cream.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Cajun Pasta, Steak Pasta, Creamy Pasta, Quick Dinner

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