What makes a perfect weeknight dinner? A hearty homemade skillet like this creamy cajun steak and cheddar penne that’s quick to whip up and packed with flavor from tender steak and sharp cheddar. Save this idea for a delicious family favorite that’s sure to become a staple.

two plates of creamy cajun steak and cheddar penne skillet on a wooden table

Introduction

Cooking a delicious meal doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With the right combination of flavors and ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both impressive and easy to make. Our creamy Cajun steak and cheddar penne skillet is a perfect example of this. By combining the richness of steak, the creaminess of cheddar, and the spiciness of Cajun seasoning with the comfort of penne pasta, we’ve created a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The best part? It’s made with everyday ingredients and can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between spicy, savory, and rich flavors, all of which are easily achievable with commonly found ingredients.
• Ease of preparation: The steps are straightforward, and the ingredients are simple to prepare, making this dish accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the combination of steak, penne pasta, and a creamy Cajun sauce presents a dish that looks and tastes like it was prepared in a professional kitchen.

Key Ingredients

The key to this recipe lies in its well-balanced mix of ingredients. You’ll need a good quality steak (such as ribeye or sirloin), penne pasta, Cajun seasoning, cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and some basic pantry staples like olive oil, garlic, and onion. For the steak, choose a cut that’s suitable for pan-frying and can hold its own against the bold flavors of the Cajun seasoning. Penne pasta is ideal because its tube shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly. If you can’t find Cajun seasoning, you can make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and thyme. Cheddar cheese adds a richness and depth to the dish, while heavy cream helps to balance out the spiciness of the Cajun seasoning.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the onion and garlic, slice the bell peppers, and cut the steak into bite-sized pieces. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, then set it aside.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak and cook until it’s browned on all sides and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside. Reduce the heat to medium and add more oil if necessary, then sauté the onion and garlic until they’re softened.
3. Step 3: Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and continue to cook until they’re tender. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the top and stir to combine. Pour in a bit of chicken broth or wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Then, add the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook until the sauce has thickened slightly, then stir in the cheddar cheese until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Step 4: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy Cajun sauce. Return the steak to the skillet and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or scallions if desired.

Handy Tips

• Use any color bell pepper you like, or a combination for a more colorful dish.
• Don’t overcook the steak or the pasta – both should be cooked just until done to preserve their texture.
• Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, start with a small amount and add more to taste.

Heat Control

Heat control is crucial in this recipe, especially when cooking the steak and the sauce. For the steak, you want a high heat to get a good sear, but then you’ll reduce the heat to cook it through to your desired level of doneness. When making the sauce, medium heat is ideal to prevent the cream from boiling over or the cheese from separating. Adjust the heat as needed to maintain a gentle simmer, and be patient – letting the sauce cook slowly will result in a richer, more flavorful dish.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the slight crispiness on the outside of the steak and the tender crunch of the bell peppers. To achieve this, make sure not to overcook the steak or the vegetables. The pasta should be al dente, providing a pleasant texture contrast to the softness of the sauce and the steak. If you want to add an extra crunch, consider topping the dish with toasted breadcrumbs or chopped nuts before serving.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a cast-iron or stainless steel skillet for this recipe, as these retain heat well and can achieve a good sear on the steak.
• To prevent the cheese sauce from separating, whisk constantly when adding the cheese, and remove the skillet from the heat once the cheese is fully melted.
• For an extra creamy sauce, add a tablespoon or two of grated Parmesan cheese in addition to the cheddar.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit more cream if the sauce seems too thick.
• This dish can also be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the components separately (steak, pasta, and sauce) for easier reheating and to prevent the sauce from separating.
• When reheating, make sure the dish is heated through to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.

Gift Packaging Ideas

For a thoughtful gift, consider packaging the components of this dish separately and including a recipe card with instructions on how to assemble and reheat. You could package the cooked pasta, steak, and sauce in microwave-safe containers, along with some crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal. Add a personal touch with a handwritten note or a small bouquet of fresh herbs.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding some dried thyme or oregano to the sauce for a more herby flavor, or use hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Creative toppings: Top the dish with diced tomatoes, chopped scallions, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and texture.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the steak with chicken or shrimp for a different protein, or use different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the sauce becomes too thick, whisk in a bit more heavy cream. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to reduce it.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find Cajun seasoning, make your own or substitute with a combination of paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper.
• Over/undercooking signs: Check the steak frequently to avoid overcooking, and make sure the pasta is al dente. If the sauce is too hot, it can separate or become too thick.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze this dish, but it’s best to freeze the components separately for easier reheating and to prevent the sauce from separating.
• Is it gluten-free? This recipe contains pasta, which typically contains gluten. However, you can substitute the penne pasta with gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just be sure to use a large enough skillet and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

This creamy Cajun steak and cheddar penne skillet is a versatile and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, spicy sauce and tender steak and pasta, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavor combinations to make the dish your own, and enjoy the process of cooking a meal that’s both nourishing and enjoyable. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress, and with these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to creating a truly unforgettable dining experience.