why make this recipe
Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. This dish brings together the richness of creamy Parmesan sauce, the kick of Cajun seasoning, and the tender juiciness of steak. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering. In just under 30 minutes, you can serve a meal that’s packed with flavor and sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
how to make Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips, season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked to your desired doneness, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta and steak back into the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
how to serve Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta
Serve the Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta hot from the skillet. You can plate it in individual bowls or family-style in a large dish. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch. For a complete meal, serve with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce.
how to store Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can be stored for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
tips to make Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta
- For extra flavor, marinate the steak in Cajun seasoning and olive oil for a few hours before cooking.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamier texture in the sauce.
- Customize the spiciness by adding more or less Cajun seasoning according to your taste.
- If you prefer a little heat, add chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
variation
You can easily swap the steak for shrimp or chicken if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly. For a vegetarian option, skip the meat and add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms instead.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite type of pasta. Penne, fettuccine, or even spaghetti will work well.
2. What if I can’t find Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own Cajun seasoning by mixing paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the steak and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve.
Cheesy Cajun Steak Pasta
A delightful combination of creamy Parmesan sauce, Cajun seasoning, and tender steak, perfect for a family dinner or impressing guests.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 1 lb steak (sirloin or ribeye), cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips, season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked to your desired doneness, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
- Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta and steak back into the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the steak in Cajun seasoning and olive oil for a few hours before cooking. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamier texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Carnivore
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg