Indulge in a meal that screams decadence with this Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Pasta. Juicy, seared steak bites seasoned with bold Cajun spices are served over a bed of creamy, rich mac and cheese-style pasta. It’s a steakhouse-quality dinner made right in your kitchen. The heat of the Cajun spice cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce, creating a perfectly balanced bite that is spicy, savory, and creamy all at once.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Steakhouse Flavor at Home
Steak tips are a flavorful cut that cooks quickly. When dusted in Cajun seasoning and seared hard in a hot skillet, they develop a crust that is packed with flavor. Pairing this with a homemade cheese sauce (no boxed powder here!) elevates the dish to something special. It feels luxurious but is surprisingly simple to pull together.
Creamy & Spicy Combo
The interplay between the spicy meat and the cooling, creamy pasta is the highlight. The cheese sauce—made with cheddar and parmesan—coats the pasta shells and picks up the fond (browned bits) left in the pan from the steak, integrating the flavors beautifully.
Ingredients
- 1 lb sirloin steak, cubed
- 8 oz pasta shells
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Cook pasta and drain.
- Toss steak in Cajun seasoning. Sear in skillet with peppers until browned. Remove.
- Add cream to skillet and simmer. Whisk in cheese until smooth.
- Stir pasta into sauce. Top with steak and peppers.
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Steak Tips: Sirloin or ribeye cut into bite-sized chunks.
Cajun Seasoning: A robust blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic, and herbs.
Pasta: Shells, rotini, or penne hold the sauce well.
Cheese: Sharp Cheddar and Parmesan for the sauce.
Heavy Cream & Butter: For the roux-based cheese sauce.
Bell Peppers: Sautéed with the steak for color and sweetness.
Smart Substitutions
You can use chicken or shrimp instead of steak for a different protein. If you want a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though it won’t be as thick. For extra heat, add diced jalapeños to the sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Boil the pasta water. Cut steak into 1-inch cubes and toss generously with Cajun seasoning. Dice peppers and onions. Shred the cheese.
Cooking Phase
Cook pasta to al dente and drain.
In a large skillet, sear the steak bites in butter/oil over high heat until browned but pink inside (about 3-4 minutes). Remove steak and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté peppers and onions until soft. Remove and set aside with steak.
Reduce heat to medium. Add butter and flour to the skillet to make a roux. Whisk in milk/cream until smooth and thickened.
Stir in the shredded cheese until melted into a smooth sauce.
Toss the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce. Top with the Cajun steak bites and peppers.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
Do not overcook the steak tips! They will continue to cook slightly when added to the hot pasta. Aim for medium-rare in the pan. Also, shred your own cheese—pre-shredded contains anti-caking agents that make the sauce grainy.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Crowding the pan when searing steak steams the meat instead of searing it. Cook in batches if needed to get that nice crust.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 650 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fat | 35g |
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve in deep bowls with the steak piled on top so it doesn’t get lost in the sauce.
Pairing Suggestions
This is a rich meal. Serve with a simple green salad or roasted asparagus. If you love this pasta, try our Beef and Noodles (Zucchini Noodles) for a lighter alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I use leftovers?
Steak can get tough when reheated. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk.
Q2? Is it too spicy for kids?
Cajun spice can be hot. Use less seasoning or a mild blend if feeding kids.
Q3? Can I use stew meat?
No, stew meat needs slow cooking. Use a tender cut like sirloin.
Conclusion
Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Pasta is the ultimate indulgence. Spicy, creamy, and meaty, it hits every comfort food note perfectly.
