Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet

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When bold spice meets velvety cheese and seared steak, you get this luscious skillet dinner: Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne. It’s a fiery, savory meal with the perfect balance of smokiness and cream, tossed together with tender penne pasta and juicy steak slices. If you’re in the mood for something indulgent yet easy enough for a weeknight, this recipe is your new go-to.

The rich cheddar-based cream sauce is layered with Cajun seasoning that brings warmth without overwhelming heat. The steak, seared for a crispy exterior and tender center, adds heartiness while the pasta delivers comfort in every bite. A dream combo that’s bound to become a family favorite.

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What Kind of Steak Should I Use?

Ribeye or sirloin work wonderfully for this recipe. They’re both flavorful cuts with enough marbling to remain tender and juicy even after searing. If you’re opting for something leaner, like flank steak, make sure not to overcook it to preserve its tenderness.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet

Steak – The star protein. Its rich, meaty flavor grounds the creamy-cheesy elements perfectly.

Penne Pasta – Holds the sauce beautifully, ensuring each bite is rich and satisfying.

Cheddar Cheese – Brings sharp, melty goodness. Choose a high-quality sharp cheddar for best results.

Heavy Cream – The base of the sauce; creates the silky texture that balances the Cajun heat.

Cajun Seasoning – Adds that unmistakable Southern kick. You can go store-bought or homemade.

Garlic Powder – Enhances the overall flavor depth and savory profile.

Butter – For searing the steak and enriching the sauce.

Salt & Pepper – To season the steak and bring out the dish’s full flavor.

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How To Make the Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Boil water in a large pot, add a pinch of salt, and cook the penne until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Steak

Pat your steak dry, then generously season it with Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat butter in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak 3–4 minutes per side until a golden crust forms. Remove, let it rest, then slice thinly.

Step 3: Make the Cajun Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add a touch more butter if needed, then stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in the shredded cheddar gradually until melted and smooth. Stir in additional Cajun seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta into the sauce, tossing well to coat each piece. Stir in a splash of reserved pasta water for silkiness if needed. Finally, add the sliced steak back into the skillet and gently fold to incorporate.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Remove from heat and serve hot. Garnish with extra cheddar or a sprinkle of Cajun spice for a little flair.

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How to Serve and Store Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne

Serve this skillet pasta straight from the pan while it’s hot and creamy. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions adds a nice pop of freshness.

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving the steak too long to prevent it from becoming tough.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Penne is great, but you can substitute with rigatoni, rotini, or even fettuccine. Just make sure it’s a pasta that holds sauce well.

How spicy is this dish?

It depends on the Cajun seasoning used. Most blends are medium spicy. If you prefer less heat, use a mild version or reduce the quantity.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Whole milk or evaporated milk is a better swap than skim or low-fat versions.

What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?

Colby jack, pepper jack, or even gouda can work. Just ensure it melts smoothly and complements the Cajun flavor.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap steak with roasted mushrooms, tofu, or a plant-based meat alternative. Keep the rest of the ingredients the same.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Cream-based sauces don’t always freeze well as they can separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated short-term.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with a Kick?

If you love this Creamy Cajun Steak & Cheddar Penne Skillet, check out these flavor-packed meals:

• Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Tacos for smoky seafood delight.
• Spicy Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese for comfort food with a fiery twist.
• Sausage and Roasted Red Pepper Pasta for a bold, hearty dinner.
• Cajun Chicken Alfredo Bake when you’re craving baked goodness.
• Chili Garlic Noodles for a spicy and satisfying pasta alternative.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use ribeye or sirloin? Did you amp up the Cajun seasoning or add extra cheese?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better and bolder meals.

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