There’s something special about a hearty meal that brings everyone together, isn’t there? The sizzle of steak tips in a hot skillet, the creamy aroma of cheesy pasta wafting through the kitchen—these moments create memories that last a lifetime. I can still remember the first time I made this dish; it was an instant hit! This recipe for Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce is not only easy to whip up, but it’s also a delicious way to impress your friends and family.
Why You’ll Love Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce
- Fast
- Easy
- Giftable
- Crowd-pleasing
Ingredients
- 1 pound steak tips: Tender and juicy, they are the star of this dish.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning: Adds a flavorful kick that makes your taste buds dance.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for cooking the steak to perfection.
- 8 ounces penne pasta: A classic pasta shape that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes the sauce rich and indulgent.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A must for that cheesy goodness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: For an extra layer of flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: For garnish and a pop of color.
How to Make Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!
- Start by seasoning the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Make sure every piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the steak tips. Cook them until they’re browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- In a separate pot, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet where you cooked the steak, reduce the heat to medium. Add the heavy cream, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce, mixing well to ensure every piece is coated.
- Return the steak tips to the skillet, combining them with the pasta and sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
- Serve your delicious dish garnished with chopped parsley. Enjoy every bite!
Substitutions & Additions
If you want to switch things up, here are some ideas:
- Try chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a different protein.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
- For a spicy kick, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes.
Tips for Success
Here are a few tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly:
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the steak; give them space to brown properly.
- Make sure to taste the sauce before serving; adjust seasoning if necessary.
- You can prep the steak and the sauce ahead of time, making it an easy meal to throw together later.
How to Store Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce
Leftovers? No problem! Store any leftover Cajun Steak Tips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen up the sauce if needed.
FAQs
- Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze it! Just be aware that the texture of the pasta might change a bit when thawed.
- What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning? You can make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Try using mozzarella or a blend of your favorites for a unique flavor.
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce is sure to become a family favorite. For more delicious recipes, check out Apple Pie Biscuits or Decadent Fudge Brownies for treats you will love!
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to follow me on Pinterest for more tasty ideas and inspiration!

Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Large pot
Ingredients
For the Cajun Steak Tips
- 1 lb steak tips Tender and juicy, they are the star of this dish.
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning Adds a flavorful kick.
- 2 tbsp olive oil Perfect for cooking the steak.
For the Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce
- 8 oz penne pasta A classic pasta shape.
- 1 cup heavy cream Makes the sauce rich and indulgent.
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese Grated for cheesy goodness.
- 1 tsp garlic powder For an extra layer of flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Step 1: Season the steak tips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper, ensuring every piece is well coated.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips and cook until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Step 3: In a separate pot, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 4: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the heavy cream, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Step 5: Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce, mixing well to coat every piece.
- Step 6: Return the steak tips to the skillet, combining them with the pasta and sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Step 7: Serve garnished with chopped parsley.
