If you are craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and comforting creaminess, then you are going to love this Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet Recipe. This vibrant meal perfectly balances spicy Cajun seasoning with rich cheddar cheese and tender steak strips, all tossed with al dente penne pasta. It’s the kind of recipe that makes weeknight dinners feel special without any complicated fuss. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this skillet combines everything you want in a hearty, satisfying meal that’s both quick and unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To whip up the Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet Recipe, you only need a handful of simple yet powerful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—from the spicy kick of the Cajun seasoning to the velvety smoothness of the heavy cream that brings it all together.
- 1 lb steak (ribeye or sirloin): Choose a cut with good marbling for juicy, flavorful slices that hold up beautifully in the skillet.
- 8 oz penne pasta: Its tube shape helps capture the creamy sauce, delivering flavor in every bite.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Provides that nostalgic cheesy tang and smooth melt that’s essential for this dish.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious base that makes the sauce rich and indulgent.
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste): Brings the bold spice and smoky depth that defines the dish’s character.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle layer of aromatic warmth without overpowering other flavors.
- 2 tbsp butter: For searing the steak and enriching the sauce with silky texture.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: To enhance and balance all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the penne pasta until it reaches al dente perfection—meaning it’s tender but still has a slight bite. Drain the pasta, making sure to reserve about one cup of the starchy pasta water. This little trick will help you adjust the sauce’s consistency later for a silky finish.
Step 2: Season & Sear the Steak
While the pasta cooks, pat your steak dry with paper towels to get a nice crust during searing. Rub it generously with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet until hot, then melt the butter and sear your steak for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, depending on thickness, to get a beautiful brown crust. Once done, remove the steak and let it rest briefly before slicing thinly. Resting locks in the juices so every bite stays tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Lower the heat and return the skillet to the burner, adding a little more butter if needed to keep things lush. Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Don’t be shy about sprinkling in a bit more Cajun seasoning here to amp up the bold, spicy notes that make this recipe so special.
Step 4: Combine Pasta
Add the cooked penne pasta back into the skillet, tossing it well in the dreamy cheese sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach that irresistibly creamy, spoonable consistency. Then fold in the sliced steak gently, letting every piece soak up the luscious sauce before serving.
Step 5: Serve
Plate your creation while it’s hot and fresh from the skillet. Top with extra cheddar cheese or a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning to create a vibrant finishing touch that will wow your dinner guests or family at the table.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of sliced green onions adds a lovely pop of color and freshness to this rich skillet dish. You can also add a bit of crushed red pepper flakes if you want an extra spicy kick that complements the Cajun flavors.
Side Dishes
For sides, think light and crisp to balance the richness: a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted asparagus with lemon zest pairs beautifully. Garlic bread always makes a fantastic companion too, perfect for mopping up that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, serve this Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet Recipe directly from a colorful cast-iron skillet on the dining table. It creates a warm, inviting shine that encourages everyone to dig right in. Alternatively, layer slices of avocado or add a dollop of sour cream on top to give a creamy contrast that’s unexpected but delightful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen as they rest, making the next-day meal just as delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Just portion into freezer-safe containers and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Keep in mind that heavy cream-based sauces sometimes change texture after freezing, but stirring well while reheating brings it back to life.
Reheating
When reheating, use a low heat setting on the stove or microwave and add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce if needed. Stir frequently to ensure even warming and avoid curdling the creamy sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta in this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce, other pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle would work wonderfully and add a fun twist to the texture.
What cut of steak works best for this skillet?
Ribeye or sirloin are ideal because they stay juicy and develop a great crust when seared. However, flank steak or even filet mignon can be used depending on your preference and budget.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based alternative and use a dairy-free sharp cheddar cheese substitute. The flavors will still be rich and tasty with a slight twist.
How spicy is the Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet Recipe?
The spice level is moderate by default but easily adjustable. You can increase or decrease the Cajun seasoning according to your heat tolerance or add fresh chili peppers for extra punch.
Is this dish freezer-friendly after cooking?
It is freezer-friendly but with some caution since the creamy sauce might separate slightly. Reheating gently with added liquid brings it back to a creamy state, making it a convenient make-ahead meal.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a busy day. It’s quick enough for weeknights but flavorful and impressive enough to serve guests. I can’t recommend enough giving it a try—you’ll be surprised how something so simple can create such a memorable meal full of spice, creaminess, and satisfying textures. Once you make it, this recipe might just become your new go-to comfort food favorite!
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Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet is a deliciously rich and flavorful one-pan meal that combines tender seared steak with al dente penne pasta, all coated in a luscious sharp cheddar and cream sauce spiced with Cajun seasoning. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a satisfying mix of creamy textures and bold, spicy flavors in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Steak
- 1 lb steak (ribeye or sirloin)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp butter
Pasta & Sauce
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water for later use.
- Season & Sear the Steak: Pat the steak dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter. Sear the steak in the hot skillet for 3 to 4 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired level. Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly across the grain.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low and, if needed, add a bit more butter to the same skillet. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Gradually whisk in the shredded cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding extra Cajun seasoning if desired.
- Combine Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the cheese sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to coat well, adding some of the reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick. Fold in the sliced steak, ensuring it is evenly distributed and heated through.
- Serve: Plate the creamy Cajun steak and cheddar penne skillet while hot. Garnish with extra shredded cheese or a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning for an added kick if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- Use ribeye for a richer flavor and sirloin for a leaner option.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste depending on your spice preference.
- Reserve pasta water is essential to adjust sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
- Letting the steak rest after searing helps retain its juices and tenderness.
- This dish can be customized with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added nutrition.
