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Creamy Cajun Steak Penne with Garlic & Parmesan

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A bold, restaurant-style pasta dish featuring tender steak, Cajun spices, and a creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce tossed with penne—perfect for weeknight comfort or an elevated dinner.

  • Author: Ella
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American-Cajun
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Ingredients

  • 1 lb steak (sirloin, ribeye, or flank), thinly sliced
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning blend
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Season steak with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.
  2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak in batches, 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pan, sauté onion and bell pepper until softened, 3–4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Deglaze pan with broth, scraping browned bits. Stir in cream and simmer gently.
  5. Return steak to pan. Stir in Parmesan and let sauce thicken. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Meanwhile, cook penne until al dente. Drain, reserving a little pasta water.
  7. Add pasta to skillet and toss to coat. Use reserved water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
  8. Garnish with parsley and serve hot, with extra Parmesan on the side.

Notes

  • Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for more heat.
  • Include mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra veggies.
  • Swap Parmesan with Pecorino or add mozzarella for richness.
  • Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce option.
  • Reheat gently with cream or broth to restore texture.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://elladishes.com/creamy-cajun-steak-penne-with-garlic-parmesan/