Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta Quick One-Skillet Dinner

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dinner but want to keep things quick and simple, this creamy cajun steak penne pasta is exactly what you need. Made in just one skillet, it’s an effortless meal that delivers bold Cajun flavors combined with a rich, velvety sauce and tender strips of steak. You’ll love how easy it is to put together this flavorful dish without a mountain of dirty dishes to clean afterwards.

this Recipe

Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend treat, this creamy cajun steak penne pasta recipe is a go-to that satisfies your craving for something spicy, creamy, and filling. Let’s dive into why this one-skillet wonder should be on your dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 30 minutes for a fast, satisfying meal
• One skillet means minimal cleanup and fuss
• Bold Cajun spices paired with a creamy sauce for rich flavor
• Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients
• Perfectly tender steak strips combined with al dente penne pasta

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy cajun steak penne pasta come together seamlessly.

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 1 pound sirloin steak, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 650 per serving

How to Make Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta — Quick One-Skillet Dinner

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 9-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak strips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the steak to the skillet and sear for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until browned but not overcooked. Remove steak from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
5. Pour in beef broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes. Stir well, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the skillet, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Add the cooked penne pasta and steak back into the skillet. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy and thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
8. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving immediately.

Tips for the Best Results

• Slice the steak thinly against the grain for tender, juicy bites.
• Don’t overcook the steak in the skillet; it will finish cooking with the pasta and sauce.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for better melting and flavor.
• Feel free to add bell peppers or mushrooms with the onions for extra veg and texture.
• For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover creamy cajun steak penne pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it chills—add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to loosen it up.

You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of steak?

Yes! Flank steak or ribeye thinly sliced works well too. Just adjust cooking time to avoid toughness.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely. Use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning doesn’t contain gluten ingredients.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can substitute the steak with grilled portobello mushrooms or a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this recipe?

The spice level is moderate, providing a nice kick but not overpowering. Adjust the amount or use a mild Cajun blend if you prefer less heat.