Ultimate Cajun Steak Tips Recipe with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

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There are comfort foods, and then there are Cajun steak tips with cheesy penne parmesan sauce — the kind of meal that practically melts stress right off your shoulders. This bowl is the perfect harmony of spice, creaminess, and hearty satisfaction. Imagine tender, spice-crusted steak bites with crispy edges, next to a glossy heap of penne pasta smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce with that signature Cajun kick. It’s soul-warming, rich, and full of flavor.

This recipe brings restaurant-level indulgence right into your kitchen, but it does it with a simplicity that makes it weeknight-dinner friendly. It’s bold enough for a date night but easy enough to whip up after a long day. The best part? You don’t need a steakhouse budget to enjoy steakhouse flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Cajun Steak Tips Recipe

• Flavor-packed: The Cajun seasoning adds smoky, peppery heat to every juicy bite of steak.
• Creamy pasta dream: The cheesy parmesan sauce hugs every penne tube with smooth richness.
• Easy to make: No oven needed. Just a skillet, a pot, and a craving for something delicious.
• Versatile: Great for dinner, meal prep, or impressing guests.

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What Cut of Steak is Best for Cajun Steak Tips?

The best cut for steak tips is sirloin — it’s affordable, tender, and flavorful when cooked quickly over high heat. If you’re feeling fancy, you can also use ribeye or tenderloin, but sirloin delivers the perfect balance of texture and taste for this dish.

When slicing your steak, aim for even-sized chunks about 1 to 1.5 inches. This helps them cook quickly and sear beautifully without drying out.

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Ingredients for the Ultimate Cajun Steak Tips Recipe with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

To build bold flavor and comforting creaminess, each ingredient in this recipe plays a specific role. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Sirloin Steak Tips: The star of the show. This cut cooks fast, stays juicy, and takes on Cajun seasoning like a champ.
• Olive Oil: Used for searing the steak and adding a hint of richness.
• Cajun Seasoning: Adds that unmistakable smoky, spicy, and savory punch.
• Salted Butter: Helps caramelize the steak tips and enrich the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Forms the creamy base of the parmesan sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds sharp, nutty depth to the sauce and melts smoothly.
• Cream Cheese: Brings the luxurious, velvety texture to the sauce.
• Garlic Powder: Provides mellow flavor without overpowering the sauce.
• Penne Pasta: Its ridged texture holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
• Parsley (optional): For a fresh garnish that adds a pop of color.

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How To Make the Ultimate Cajun Steak Tips Recipe with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Prep and Season the Steak

Pat your sirloin steak tips dry with paper towels. Toss them in olive oil and Cajun seasoning until every piece is well coated.

Step 2: Sear the Steak Tips

In a hot skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter and sear steak tips in batches. Let them brown undisturbed for 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the steak cooks, boil penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cheesy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for steak, reduce heat to medium. Pour in heavy cream, cream cheese, and garlic powder. Stir continuously until smooth, then add parmesan cheese and melt into a velvety sauce.

Step 5: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add drained pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat every noodle with cheesy goodness. Simmer for 1-2 minutes to thicken.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate the creamy penne and top with steak tips. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.

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How to Serve and Store This Cajun Steak Tips Recipe

This dish is best served fresh off the stove while the steak is juicy and the cheese sauce is ultra-creamy. Plate a generous serving of cheesy penne and top it with a pile of seared Cajun steak tips. For extra flair, sprinkle with fresh parsley or a dash of Cajun seasoning.

This recipe feeds about 4 people generously, making it great for a family dinner or a delicious date-night meal with leftovers to spare.

To store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

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What to Serve With Cajun Steak Tips and Cheesy Penne?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside — garlic bread is perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A fresh salad with crisp lettuce, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their earthy flavor and crispy edges offer a great contrast to the creamy penne.

Southern-Style Cornbread

Adds a touch of sweetness and texture to your savory plate.

Sauteed Asparagus

Quick, easy, and vibrant. Asparagus brings a pop of color and lightness.

Spicy Pickled Vegetables

Bright, tangy, and spicy pickles help cut through the creamy richness.

Lemon Butter Broccoli

The citrusy butter enhances the Cajun flavor profile while keeping it fresh.

Creamy Coleslaw

For a cool and crunchy contrast, especially if you’re leaning into a Southern-style dinner.

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Want More Comfort Food Dinner Ideas?

If you can’t get enough of these Cajun steak tips with cheesy penne, you’ll love these other crave-worthy dishes:

• Garlic Butter Meatballs with Velvety Parmesan Penne — savory meatballs paired with creamy pasta.
• Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta — a hearty bowl packed with rich, beefy flavor.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta — a one-pan wonder that’s fast and filling.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta — luscious, cheesy, and packed with ground beef.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce — a fusion of cheesy pasta and classic steak flavor.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you spice it up with extra Cajun heat? Did you serve it with greens or garlic bread?

I love seeing how everyone personalizes their meals. Got questions or swaps to share? Let’s make dinner even better together.

Explore more dinner ideas and bold comfort food dishes on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest.

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