Indulge in Creamy Cajun Steak Bites with Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta

Get ready to embark on a flavor adventure with our mouthwatering Creamy Cajun Steak Bites with Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta! This dish is a symphony of bold Cajun spices, tender steak, and a luxurious creamy sauce, all tossed with perfectly al dente penne pasta and a heavenly garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s a match made in culinary heaven that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Table of Contents

What Makes This Recipe Special?

The secret to the irresistible flavor of this dish lies in the perfect balance of spices and the creamy Cajun sauce that coats the tender steak bites. The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick, while the garlic and Parmesan in the pasta sauce provide a comforting, indulgent element. Together, they create a flavor profile that’s both deeply satisfying and utterly craveable.

The Perfect Pairing: Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta

No Creamy Cajun Steak Bites dish would be complete without the perfect pasta accompaniment. That’s where the Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta comes in, elevating the meal to new heights. The creamy, garlicky sauce coats each strand of penne, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that complements the Cajun-spiced steak bites perfectly.

Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Steak Bites

For the Steak Bites

• 1.5 lbs sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped green onions, for garnish

For the Garlic Parmesan Penne

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 6 tbsp butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Step-by-Step Directions to Prepare the Dish

Cooking the Penne Pasta

Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, ready to be tossed with the Garlic Parmesan sauce later.

Preparing the Steak Bites

In a large bowl, combine the cubed sirloin steak with the olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Toss the steak until it’s evenly coated with the spices.

Creating the Cajun Cream Sauce

Heat 1 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak in a single layer (working in batches if needed) and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned but still slightly pink inside. Remove the seared steak from the skillet and set it aside.

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and beef broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.

Combining Steak with the Sauce

Return the seared steak bites to the skillet with the Cajun cream sauce. Toss the steak to coat it evenly in the flavorful sauce.

Making the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and milk. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, about 3-5 minutes.

Tossing the Penne with Sauce

Add the cooked penne pasta to the saucepan with the Garlic Parmesan sauce. Toss the pasta to coat it evenly in the creamy, cheesy sauce.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Cajun Steak Bites

Garnishing and Presentation Tips

Serve the Creamy Cajun Steak Bites over the Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta, garnishing with the chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle on some extra grated Parmesan cheese for an even more indulgent touch.

Pairing with Sides and Beverages

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal. For beverages, consider a bold red wine or a refreshing, cold beer to complement the bold Cajun flavors.

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations

Caloric Breakdown

This Creamy Cajun Steak Bites with Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta dish is a hearty and satisfying meal, with each serving containing approximately 680 calories. The majority of the calories come from the steak, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, providing a good source of protein and healthy fats.

Substitutions for Dietary Needs

For those looking to reduce the caloric or fat content, you can try using a leaner cut of steak, such as flank or sirloin tip, and substituting the heavy cream with a lighter alternative, like half-and-half or low-fat milk. Additionally, you can use a dairy-free Parmesan cheese substitute to make this dish more suitable for those with lactose intolerance or vegan diets.

Frequently Asked Questions

What meat goes with cajun pasta?

Creamy Cajun Steak Bites are a classic and delicious pairing with Cajun-style pasta dishes. The bold Cajun spices complement the tender steak perfectly, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. However, you can also use other proteins, such as grilled or blackened chicken, shrimp, or even sausage, to add a Cajun twist to your pasta.

Do you serve chicken parm over pasta?

Yes, chicken parmesan is traditionally served over a bed of pasta, such as spaghetti or penne. The combination of the crispy, breaded chicken, the melted cheese, and the savory tomato sauce pairs beautifully with the neutral flavor and texture of the pasta, creating a classic and comforting Italian-American dish.

Is chicken parm a comfort food?

Absolutely! Chicken parmesan is widely considered a quintessential comfort food. The combination of tender, breaded chicken, gooey cheese, and a rich, flavorful sauce evokes a sense of nostalgia and warmth, making it a beloved dish among many. The hearty, satisfying nature of chicken parmesan makes it the perfect meal to enjoy on a cozy night in or when craving something truly comforting.

Where does chicken parmesan come from?

Chicken parmesan, or “pollo alla parmigiana” in Italian, has its origins in Italian-American cuisine. While the dish is not traditionally found in Italy, it was likely inspired by the classic Italian dish, eggplant parmesan, and developed by Italian immigrants in the United States. The dish became popularized in the early 20th century and has since become a staple on menus across America, known for its delicious blend of crispy chicken, melted cheese, and savory tomato sauce.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
• Five-Ingredient Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
• Steak Fettuccine Alfredo

Conclusion

Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Creamy Cajun Steak Bites with Garlic Parmesan Penne Pasta and elevate your dining experience to new heights. This dish is a harmonious blend of bold Cajun spices, tender steak, and a creamy, decadent pasta that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a delicious meal, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

Print