Description
This Delicious Creamy Cajun Steak Penne with Garlic & Parmesan is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender slices of seasoned steak with al dente penne pasta in a rich and creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a delightful balance of spicy Cajun seasoning and savory flavors, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for that finishing touch.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 12 ounces penne pasta
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 pound sirloin or ribeye steak, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Sauce and Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup beef broth
Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
- Extra Parmesan for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Season the Steak: While the pasta cooks, season the thinly sliced steak with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste, ensuring the spices coat the meat evenly for a flavorful crust.
- Sear the Steak: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak slices and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side until nicely browned on the outside but still tender on the inside. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Sauté the minced garlic, red and yellow bell peppers, and red onion over medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Seasoning and Liquids: Stir in the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to the vegetables. Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate Parmesan: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and become creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Steak: Return the cooked penne pasta and seared steak slices to the skillet. Toss everything together carefully to coat the pasta and steak evenly with the creamy Cajun sauce. Warm through for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Serve: Plate the creamy Cajun steak penne and garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor experience.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preferred heat level for a milder or spicier dish.
- For a protein variation, substitute steak with chicken breast or shrimp if desired.
- To reduce richness and calories, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative.
- This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Ensure to slice the steak thinly to promote quick cooking and tenderness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
