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Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta

Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta for a Cozy Dinner Night

This Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta offers a delightful mix of creamy goodness and bold flavors, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Penne Pasta Can swap with fusilli or rigatoni
For the Steak
  • 1 pound Steak Strips Can use chicken as an alternative
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
For the Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Optional
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Butter For searing steak and enriching sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Flour To thicken the sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Can substitute half-and-half or coconut cream
  • 1 cup Milk
  • 1 cup Mozzarella
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan
  • 4 ounces Cream Cheese

Equipment

  • large pot
  • skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • whisk

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions for 10-12 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. Toss steak strips with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add butter, and sear seasoned steak strips for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds. Remove garlic and set aside with the steak.
  5. Melt another tablespoon of butter in the skillet, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add heavy cream and milk, stirring until thickened in 3-5 minutes.
  6. Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese until melted and creamy.
  7. Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing to coat. Stir over low heat for 1-2 minutes.
  8. Plate the dish, top with seared steak, and garnish with parsley, cheese, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Consider searing the steak properly for the best flavor, and adjust the seasoning to your heat preference. You can also experiment with different cheeses for a unique twist.

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