One-Skillet Creamy Spicy Cajun Steak Pasta Recipe

If you love bold flavors and quick, comforting meals, this one-skillet creamy spicy cajun steak pasta is going to be your new go-to dinner. The tender steak coated in Cajun spices combined with a luscious, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta makes every bite a delight. Plus, cooking it all in one skillet means less cleanup—always a win in my book.

this Recipe

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just want a tasty, satisfying dinner on a busy weeknight, this recipe brings together rich, spicy, and creamy elements that are sure to impress. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• One skillet only: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Bold Cajun flavors: A spicy, smoky kick that livens up any dinner table.
• Creamy and comforting: The sauce is rich, smooth, and coats every bite.
• Versatile: You can swap steak for chicken or shrimp if preferred.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your creamy spicy Cajun steak pasta. Fresh spices and quality cream help build the dish’s signature flavor.

• 12 ounces sirloin steak, thinly sliced
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 8 ounces penne pasta, uncooked
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 550 per serving

How to Make One-Skillet Creamy Spicy Cajun Steak Pasta

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the sliced steak with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the steak to the hot skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned but still tender. Remove steak and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the chopped onion. Sauté for 3 minutes until softened, then add garlic and crushed red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add the uncooked penne pasta to the skillet, making sure it’s submerged in the liquid. Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
6. Return the cooked steak to the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, cooking for another 2 minutes to combine flavors and thicken the sauce.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning if desired.
8. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan if you like.

Tips for the Best Results

• Slice the steak thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to hold up in the creamy sauce.
• Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
• Fresh parsley added at the end brightens the flavors and adds a pop of color.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken after chilling—simply add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to loosen it up.

You can also freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes, flank steak, ribeye, or strip steak all work well. Just be sure to slice thinly and cook quickly to avoid toughness.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The dish has a medium level of heat from the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust the spice by reducing or increasing the crushed red pepper.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce, but it won’t be as rich and creamy. Adding a bit of flour or cornstarch can help thicken the sauce if needed.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and verify that your Cajun seasoning and broth are gluten-free to enjoy this dish without worry.