Description: A quick and easy one-pan dinner that combines tender steak strips with perfectly cooked penne pasta in a creamy, cheesy Cajun-spiced sauce. This skillet meal is packed with flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into strips
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 12 oz penne pasta (or your preferred pasta)
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/4 cup of the pasta water before draining. Set the cooked pasta aside.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak In a mixing bowl, combine the sirloin steak strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure the steak is evenly coated with the spices. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through to your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Sauce In the same skillet where you cooked the steak, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make it bitter.
Step 4: Make It Creamy and Cheesy Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually stir in a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine and Serve Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the creamy cheese sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Return the cooked steak to the skillet and gently fold everything together, ensuring the steak is warmed through. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet is a crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy weeknights.
- One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is always a win, and this recipe delivers with everything cooked in one skillet.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of Cajun spices, creamy sauce, and tender steak is incredibly satisfying.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with different proteins, vegetables, or cheeses to suit your preferences.
- Comfort Food: This dish is hearty, cheesy, and comforting – perfect for a cozy night in.
- Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients and a relatively inexpensive cut of steak (sirloin) makes it an affordable option.
- Adaptable to Dietary Needs: This recipe is easily adaptable to different dietary needs, as described in the variations section.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors and hearty texture make it an appealing dish to serve to guests.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It’s great for meal prepping as it reheats well, and the flavors meld together even more over time.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the creamy cheese sauce and tender steak.
Serving Suggestions:
This skillet pasta is rich, hearty, and filled with flavor, so it truly shines as a complete meal on its own. But if you’re looking to round out the experience or make it stretch further for guests, here are some great serving ideas:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta. Try arugula with lemon juice and olive oil or a simple romaine Caesar with homemade croutons. A Caprese salad with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil would also complement the dish nicely.
- Garlic Bread or Baguette: Something to mop up that cheesy sauce is always welcome. A slice of warm, crusty bread with a swipe of garlic butter is a no-brainer alongside this creamy dish. You can also offer toasted baguette slices drizzled with olive oil and herbs.
- Roasted Vegetables: If you’re feeding a crowd or want to bulk up the meal, roasted asparagus, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts would be excellent choices. These add color, nutrients, and a contrasting texture to the creamy pasta. Roasting the vegetables with a sprinkle of garlic powder and a drizzle of olive oil will enhance their flavor.
- Soup: A light and refreshing soup, such as tomato basil or French onion, can be a great starter. The soup’s warmth and subtle flavors will prepare the palate for the richness of the pasta.
- Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Merlot would pair well with the steak and creamy sauce. For a white wine option, try a Chardonnay with oaky notes.
- Dessert: After a hearty meal like this, a light dessert is best. Consider serving fruit salad, lemon sorbet, or a few biscotti with coffee.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: If it’s grilling season, grilled corn on the cob with butter and a sprinkle of salt is a classic side dish that complements the Cajun flavors of the steak pasta.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.
- Pickles or Relish: Offering a selection of pickles or relish, like cornichons or pickled onions, can add a vinegary bite that cuts through the creaminess of the dish.
Tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Steak: Ensure the steak is cooked to your liking, but be careful not to overcook it, as it will become tough. Searing it quickly over high heat helps to lock in the juices.
- Use High-Quality Cheese: The quality of the cheese greatly affects the flavor of the sauce. Opt for good-quality sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese for the best results.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or omit the cayenne pepper. If you like it extra spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water is a secret weapon for achieving the perfect sauce consistency. It’s starchy and helps the sauce cling to the pasta.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the steak, avoid overcrowding the pan. Sear the steak in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
- Add Vegetables: For a more nutritious meal, add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the skillet while cooking the steak.
- Deglaze the Pan: After removing the steak from the skillet, deglaze the pan with a splash of wine or broth to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This will add extra flavor to the sauce.
- Keep it Warm: If you’re not serving immediately, keep the pasta warm in a low oven or a slow cooker.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the steak and sauce ahead of time and combine them with the pasta just before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.) Calories: Approximately 650-750 per serving Protein: 40-50g Sodium: 800-1000mg
Conclusion:
The Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet is a winning recipe that delivers big flavor and satisfaction in a short amount of time. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal, a casual gathering, or any occasion when you want a delicious, comforting dish that everyone will love. With its customizable ingredients and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of steak? A: Absolutely! While sirloin is a great choice for this recipe, you can substitute it with other cuts like ribeye, flank steak, or even pre-cooked steak. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, depending on the thickness and tenderness of the steak. If using a tougher cut, consider marinating it beforehand to tenderize it and enhance its flavor. Also, make sure to cut against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Q2: Can I make this recipe vegetarian? A: Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the steak and adding plant-based protein alternatives. Sautéed mushrooms, roasted cauliflower, or even grilled halloumi cheese would be fantastic substitutes. To keep the Cajun flavor profile, toss the vegetables in the same Cajun seasoning blend used for the steak before cooking. You can also add a can of drained and rinsed black beans for extra protein and texture.
Q3: How can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: To make the Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet gluten-free, simply swap out the regular penne pasta for a gluten-free alternative. There are many excellent gluten-free pasta options available, made from ingredients like rice, corn, or quinoa. Ensure that the Cajun seasoning you use is also gluten-free, as some blends may contain wheat-based ingredients. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Q4: Can I prepare this recipe in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare several components of this recipe ahead of time to save time on the day of serving. You can cook the steak and prepare the sauce separately and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, cook the pasta, then combine it with the steak and sauce, heating everything through. This is a great option for meal prepping or when you’re expecting guests and want to get some of the work done in advance.
Q5: How can I lighten up this recipe? A: To reduce the calorie and fat content of the Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet, there are several substitutions you can make. Replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, and reduce the amount of butter used. You can also use a lower-fat cheese like reduced-fat cheddar or mozzarella. Consider adding more vegetables to the dish to increase its volume and nutritional value without adding extra calories. Grilling the steak instead of searing it in oil can also help to reduce the fat content.
