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Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta

Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta That'll Spice Up Your Dinner

Experience a delightful fusion of flavors with this Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta, a perfect weeknight dinner choice.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 720
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces Penne Pasta Substitute with fusilli or rigatoni if preferred.
For the Steak
  • 1 pound Steak Strips Can swap with chicken if desired.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Can use canola oil instead.
For Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Adjust to your spice preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used as well.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Regular paprika can be used instead.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Sauce
  • 3 tablespoons Butter Can substitute with olive oil.
  • 2 cloves Minced Garlic Don't skip for authentic taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Flour Cornstarch can be used as a gluten-free alternative.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half or coconut cream can be used.
  • 1 cup Milk
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Mix with other cheese types if desired.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Fresh grated is best.
  • 4 ounces Cream Cheese Can be omitted for lighter sauce.
For Garnish
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley Chives or green onions can substitute.
  • to taste Red Pepper Flakes Use for extra heat.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • colander
  • Mixing Bowl
  • large skillet
  • whisk

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta in a pot of boiling salted water for 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Combine steak strips with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Marinate for 5 minutes.
  3. Sear the marinated steak in a skillet with melted butter for 2-3 minutes on each side. Set aside to rest.
  4. In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter and whisk in the flour for 1 minute. Gradually add heavy cream and milk, whisking until thickened.
  5. Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Combine the drained pasta with the sauce in the skillet, tossing until evenly coated. Heat through for 2 minutes.
  7. Serve topped with seared steak, garnished with parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 720kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 38gFat: 38gSaturated Fat: 19gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 1200mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Consider serving with a refreshing salad or coleslaw for a complete dinner. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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