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Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta

Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta: Quick Comfort for Any Night

There's nothing like Creamy Cajun Steak Penne Pasta to ignite joy during busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Penne Pasta Perfect shape to hold onto the creamy sauce.
For the Steak
  • 1 lb Steak Strips Feel free to substitute with chicken.
For Cooking
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Enhances flavor during searing.
For Seasoning
  • 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning Adjust heat according to preference.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika Adds smoky richness.
  • 1 tsp Salt Essential for flavor.
  • 1 tsp Pepper Tailor to taste.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Butter For richness in the sauce.
  • 2 tbsp Flour Thickens the sauce.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream For a creamy texture.
  • 1 cup Milk Can use half-and-half for lighter options.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese Finely grated for smooth melting.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Finely grated.
  • 4 oz Cream Cheese For extra creaminess.
  • 2 tbsp Parsley Fresh garnish.
  • 1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes Optional for heat.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large Skillet
  • medium bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water and cook penne pasta until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season the Steak: Combine steak strips with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Sear the Steak: Heat skillet, add steak strips, and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove and let rest.
  4. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, cook minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Make the Sauce: Add butter to melt, sprinkle in flour, and whisk for about 1 minute.
  6. Whisk in the Cream: Pour in heavy cream and milk, whisking until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
  7. Add the Cheeses: Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese until melted. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked penne to skillet and toss gently to coat in sauce.
  9. Serve and Garnish: Slice steak and mix with pasta or layer on top, garnishing with parsley and cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Gather ingredients ahead of time to minimize stress and ensure smooth cooking.

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