Creamy Cajun Steak Penne

Creamy Cajun Steak Penne with Garlic Butter Sauce blends bold flavors and rich textures for a satisfying weeknight dinner. Each bite packs tender steak, velvety sauce, and a little Cajun kick that makes this pasta unforgettable.

The first time I cooked this, my whole kitchen smelled like a Southern bistro and everyone kept sneaking forksful straight from the skillet even before we sat down to eat.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: The tubular shape captures every drop of the garlic butter sauce Choose a high-quality brand for the best texture
• Olive oil: Helps the Cajun seasoning cling to the steak Use extra virgin for optimal taste
• Sirloin steak: This lean cut becomes juicy and tender after a quick sear Select steaks with slight marbling for added flavor
• Cajun seasoning: Delivers smoky spicy complexity Try to buy a freshly blended mix for full impact
• Butter: Divided between the steak and sauce for maximum richness Go for unsalted to control salt levels
• Garlic: Freshly minced brings fragrant punch and depth Look for firm plump cloves
• Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and body The fresher the better
• Chicken broth: Provides savory backbone and helps build the sauce Low-sodium is best if you want to control saltiness
• Heavy cream: Makes the finished sauce silky and luxurious Use well-chilled cream for easy blending
• Cream cheese: Softened it melts seamlessly for an ultra-creamy base Full fat has the best flavor
• Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully for gooey texture Buy a block and shred it fresh if you can
• Parmesan cheese: Brings sharpness and a nutty finish Always grate right before using
• Green onions: Add color and freshness Select crisp green tops only
• Smoked paprika: It intensifies the Cajun notes and deepens color Try Spanish smoked paprika for authenticity
• Salt and black pepper: Fine tune to your tastes With steak and cheese, a generous hand is good here

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente following the package time Drain well and set aside The pasta will finish cooking slightly in the sauce later

Season and Sear the Steak:

Drizzle the sirloin steak with olive oil then coat all sides generously with Cajun seasoning salt and black pepper Press the spices in so they stick Heat a large skillet over medium-high and add two tablespoons of butter Sear the steaks for about three to four minutes on each side for medium-rare If you like a different doneness cook up to five or six minutes per side Transfer to a plate and let the meat rest for five minutes before slicing

Make the Garlic Butter Base:

Using the same skillet reduce the heat to medium Add the remaining two tablespoons of butter Then add minced garlic and chopped onions Cook while stirring until the onions have softened and the garlic is fragrant This takes about three to five minutes Be careful not to let the garlic brown

Build and Enrich the Sauce:

Pour chicken broth into the skillet Scrape any browned bits off the bottom and bring the broth to a gentle simmer Let it reduce for five minutes to concentrate the flavor Lower the heat then stir in heavy cream and cream cheese Blend until the cream cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth

Melt the Cheeses:

Add shredded Monterey Jack and Parmesan in stages Stir gently after each handful until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is creamy and thick Taste and adjust with salt black pepper and smoked paprika

Combine with Pasta:

Return the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with your sauce Toss thoroughly so every piece is coated in cheesy Cajun goodness

Finish with Steak and Garnish:

Slice the rested sirloin steak against the grain for tenderness Layer the slices neatly over the creamy sauced penne Top with a handful of chopped green onions for freshness Serve hot

Save

I absolutely love the kick the smoked paprika brings to the sauce It transforms everything and brings back memories of smoky summer cookouts with my family One bite and we always end up talking about who makes the best steak in the family

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool to room temperature before storing Transfer in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days For best results reheat gently on the stove over low heat adding a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce texture Microwaving works too but in short bursts while stirring between each for even warming

Substitution Guide

Swap sirloin out for ribeye or flat iron if that is what you have Both stay delicious and juicy Pork loin can work in a pinch For a lighter take use half and half instead of heavy cream If you need a vegetarian version skip the steak replace with roasted mushrooms and use vegetable broth

Serving Suggestions

This dish is super hearty on its own but an arugula citrus salad balances the richness perfectly Roasted asparagus or green beans make a colorful fresh side If you want true decadence offer warm crusty garlic bread for dipping into that sauce

Cultural and Historical Touch

Cajun seasoning is rooted in the cuisine of Louisiana A mixture of paprika garlic and pepper it was always meant to brighten humble dishes The steak penne combination brings together spicy New Orleans flavor with classic Italian comfort a pairing I think anyone would crave after a long day

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I keep the steak tender?

Allow the steak to rest before slicing and always cut against the grain for the most tender results.

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, rigatoni or fettuccine also work well with the creamy Cajun sauce and steak.

→ Is it possible to make it less spicy?

Use less Cajun seasoning and omit the smoked paprika if you prefer a milder flavor profile.

→ How do I reheat leftovers without drying out the steak?

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to keep steak and pasta moist.

→ What's the best way to achieve a creamy sauce?

Allow cheeses to melt fully into the hot cream mixture and stir continuously for a smooth, creamy texture.

→ Can I substitute the steak with chicken?

Yes, sliced Cajun chicken breast makes an easy and tasty alternative to steak in this dish.