Ingredients
→ For the Cajun Steak Tips
1½ pounds sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
1½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
→ For the Cheesy Parmesan Penne
12 ounces penne pasta
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, finely minced
1½ cups heavy cream
½ cup whole milk
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Steps
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne until just al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining and set cooked pasta aside.
In a mixing bowl, thoroughly coat steak tips with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange steak tips in a single layer and sear for 3-4 minutes per side. In the final minute, add butter and baste the steak. Remove and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter and sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Whisk in heavy cream and whole milk. Add softened cream cheese and stir until fully incorporated and smooth.
Add mozzarella, Parmesan, and Cajun seasoning. Stir until sauce thickens. Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency if needed.
Add cooked penne and seared steak tips to the skillet. Gently fold everything together and simmer for several minutes to meld flavors.
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Optional: sprinkle extra cheese on top and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips
- Reserve pasta water to help achieve silky sauce consistency if mixture thickens too much
- Fresh grated Parmesan melts better than pre-grated for creamier sauce
- Don’t overcook the steak tips – they should be tender and juicy inside
Required Tools
- Large pot for pasta
- Large skillet
- Colander for draining
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons