Description
This Cheesy Spicy Cajun Steak & Pasta Skillet delivers a hearty, flavorful one-pan meal combining tender sirloin steak strips with al dente penne pasta tossed in a rich, creamy, cheesy sauce infused with bold Cajun spices. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner with a spicy kick and velvety texture, it comes together quickly on the stovetop for an easy, comforting dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Steak and Seasoning
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into thin strips
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
Sauté and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain the pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Season the Steak: In a bowl, season the sirloin steak strips evenly with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Sear the Steak: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak strips and sear for 2 to 3 minutes until browned on the outside but still tender inside. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, sliced red bell pepper, and sliced onion. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta along with the reserved pasta water to the skillet. Stir well to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Return Steak and Finish: Return the seared steak strips to the skillet and toss everything together to combine and heat through. Sprinkle the crushed red pepper flakes over the top, adjusting to your desired spice level.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve the cheesy spicy Cajun steak and pasta skillet warm.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes to suit your desired spice tolerance.
- For variation, substitute shrimp or chicken in place of the steak strips.
- Reserve pasta water carefully, as it helps to loosen the sauce and add creaminess.
- Use freshly grated cheese for best melting and flavor results.
