Description
Savor a rich and flavorful dish featuring tender Cajun-seasoned sirloin steak tips served over penne pasta tossed in a creamy, cheesy Parmesan sauce. This indulgent meal balances smoky spices with a luscious sauce that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz Penne Pasta
Steak
- 1 lb Sirloin Steak Tips
- 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
Sauce
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1 cup Parmesan Cheese, freshly grated
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
Garnish
- 2 tbsp Parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta for 9 to 11 minutes until al dente. Reserve half a cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the pasta and setting it aside.
- Season and Sear Steak: Pat the sirloin steak tips dry and evenly coat them with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak tips for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a rich caramelized crust. Remove the steak from the skillet, transfer to a plate, and cover to keep warm.
- Sauté Garlic and Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and allow it to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Add Cheese and Season: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, mixing until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning by adding salt or additional Cajun seasoning as desired.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss well to coat, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach a creamy consistency.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the creamy penne pasta and top it with the seared Cajun steak tips. Sprinkle smoked paprika and chopped parsley over the dish for the perfect smoky flavor and fresh color contrast. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For best results, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother sauce.
- If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or omit the smoked paprika garnish.
- Reserve pasta water carefully as it helps to adjust sauce consistency without thinning the flavor.
- Rest steak tips briefly after searing to allow juices to redistribute for tender bites.
- This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
