Easy Cajun Steak Tips with Creamy Parmesan Penne

If you’re craving a dinner that’s bursting with flavor but doesn’t keep you in the kitchen all night, this easy Cajun steak tips recipe is exactly what you need. Perfectly seasoned steak bites paired with penne pasta tossed in a luscious, creamy parmesan sauce create a comforting meal you can whip up any day of the week.

this Recipe

You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together and how the Cajun spices add just the right amount of kick. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe delivers a satisfying, flavorful experience that everyone will rave about.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 30 minutes—the perfect weeknight meal.
• Bold Cajun seasoning adds exciting flavor without extra effort.
• Creamy parmesan sauce makes the penne irresistibly rich and smooth.
• Steak tips cook quickly and remain tender and juicy.
• Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the Cajun steak tips with penne in creamy parmesan sauce. The recipe serves 4 generous portions.

• 1 lb sirloin steak tips, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 12 oz penne pasta
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• ½ teaspoon black pepper, divided
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 620 per serving

How to Make Easy Cajun Steak Tips with Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

1. Start by seasoning the steak tips evenly with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. Let them sit for 5 minutes to absorb the flavors.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the steak tips and sear for 3-4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove from pan and tent with foil to keep warm.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and butter to the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine.
5. Simmer the cream for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened, then stir in parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
6. Add the drained penne to the sauce, tossing to coat the pasta completely. Then return the steak tips to the skillet and stir gently to combine with the creamy pasta.
7. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish and give it one final toss. Serve immediately, garnished with extra parmesan and parsley if desired.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use sirloin or another tender cut for juicy, flavorful steak tips.
• Don’t overcook the steak to keep it tender; medium-rare to medium is ideal.
• Freshly grated parmesan melts better and tastes richer than pre-grated.
• Save some pasta water before draining; add a splash if the sauce needs loosening.
• Adjust Cajun seasoning to your heat preference—you can use less for milder flavors.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover Cajun steak tips with penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce may thicken when chilled; stir in a splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore creaminess.

You can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While penne works great to hold the creamy sauce, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or any pasta you prefer. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How spicy is the Cajun steak tips dish?

The Cajun seasoning gives a moderate kick without being overwhelming. You can reduce the amount of seasoning or omit red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder taste.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the steak tips by seasoning them a few hours in advance or even the day before. It’s best to cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving to maintain texture and freshness.

What can I serve alongside this dish?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables complement the richness of the creamy parmesan sauce nicely. Garlic bread is also a great option to soak up any extra sauce.