Creamy Cajun Steak Penne with Garlic & Parmesan

A bold, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender steak strips, al dente penne, and a rich, creamy sauce spiked with Cajun spices and savory garlic—perfect for a restaurant-style meal at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish delivers a punch of Cajun heat balanced by silky cream and savory Parmesan. Juicy steak, garlic, and pasta come together in a luscious sauce that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s indulgent enough for date night but simple enough for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Steak (sirloin, ribeye, or flank), thinly sliced

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• Cajun seasoning blend

• Olive oil (or a mix of butter and oil)

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Onion, finely chopped

• Bell pepper (red or green), diced

• Heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)

• Chicken or beef broth

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Penne pasta

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

directions

1. I season the steak slices with salt, pepper, and a generous coating of Cajun seasoning.

2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, I add oil and sear the steak in batches until browned but still juicy inside, about 2–3 minutes per side. I transfer steak to a plate.

3. In the same pan, I sauté onion and bell pepper until softened, about 3–4 minutes, then add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. I pour in a splash of broth to deglaze, scraping up browned bits, then stir in the cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.

5. I return the steak to the pan, stir in Parmesan, and let the sauce thicken slightly, adjusting seasoning with more Cajun spice or black pepper as needed.

6. Meanwhile, I cook penne until al dente, drain it (reserving a bit of pasta water), and add it to the skillet. I toss everything together, adding a splash of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

7. I garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot, with extra Parmesan on the side.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4. Prep time is about 15 minutes, cooking takes around 20 minutes—so the meal is ready in roughly 35 minutes total.

Variations

• Spicy boost: I stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for extra heat.

• Veggie-packed: I add mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes when sautéing veggies to bulk up the dish.

• Cheesy twist: I swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or add shredded mozzarella for gooey indulgence.

• Lightened-up: I use half-and-half instead of cream and skip deep searing, keeping sauce lighter.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I gently warm the pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

FAQs

What’s the best cut of steak to use?

I prefer sirloin or flank steak—lean enough for quick cooking yet tender when sliced thin. Ribeye is richer and works beautifully too.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

I let it simmer a bit longer after adding Parmesan, or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch dissolved in water if I want it thicker more quickly.

Can I prepare any part ahead of time?

I sometimes cook and slice the steak ahead, store it separately, then reheat and toss with freshly made sauce and pasta for better texture.

Is this gluten-free adaptable?

Yes—I use gluten-free penne and ensure the Cajun seasoning and broth are gluten-free. The dish remains just as flavorful.

What pairs well with this dish?

I serve it with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies to balance the richness.

Conclusion

I find this Creamy Cajun Steak Penne with Garlic & Parmesan to be the ultimate comfort-meets-spice dinner—it’s creamy, bold, and hearty. Perfect for elevating an everyday meal without fuss. Let me know if you’d like wine pairings or a lighter version!