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Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet


  • Author: Sara McKenney
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Get ready for the ultimate skillet dinner! This Creamy Cajun Butter Tender Steak Pasta Skillet combines juicy, pan-seared steak with penne pasta and a bold Cajun-spiced cream sauce. It’s rich, spicy, and comforting—all in one pan. Perfect for those craving easy dinner ideas, quick weeknight meals, or a creamy pasta recipe that feels gourmet but comes together fast. Ideal for hearty food ideas and comforting yet easy recipes that deliver every time.


Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta

1 lb sirloin steak, sliced into thin strips

2 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

3 tbsp butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

1 ½ cups heavy cream

¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley


Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup of the pasta water.

2. Season sliced steak with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak slices for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter.

5. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in remaining Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes.

6. Pour in heavy cream and stir well. Let simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

7. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and mix until the sauce is creamy and smooth.

8. Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water to adjust consistency if needed.

9. Return the steak to the skillet and combine gently with the pasta and sauce.

10. Let everything heat through for 1–2 minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Notes

Let your steak come to room temperature before searing for the best texture and flavor.

Don’t boil the cream sauce—keep it at a simmer to avoid separation.

Add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American-Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
  • Calories: 690
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 820mg
  • Fat: 40g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: creamy cajun pasta, steak pasta, easy dinner, comfort food, one pan meal