Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet! It’s one of those dishes that wraps you in a warm hug the moment you take a bite. The combination of tender steak, zesty cajun seasoning, and gooey cheddar cheese creates a flavor explosion that’ll have you coming back for more. I remember the first time I made this—it was a chilly evening, and I wanted something comforting yet exciting. This skillet meal was the perfect solution! Not only is it incredibly satisfying, but it also comes together in just about 30 minutes. Trust me, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up on a busy weeknight or when you’re just craving something delicious. Get ready to impress your taste buds!
Ingredients List
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb steak (I love using sirloin or flank steak cut into strips for tenderness)
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (the sharper, the better for that rich flavor!)
- 1 cup heavy cream (this is what makes it so creamy and dreamy)
- 2 tbsp cajun seasoning (feel free to adjust if you want more kick!)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for that perfect sautéing base)
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (I usually go for a mix of colors for a pop of brightness)
- 1/2 cup onion, sliced (sweet or yellow onions work beautifully)
- Salt and pepper to taste (always season to your preference!)
How to Prepare the Creamy Cajun Steak Cheddar Penne Skillet
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
First things first, let’s get that penne pasta cooking! Boil a large pot of water and don’t forget to salt it generously—this is your chance to flavor the pasta from the inside out! Once the water’s bubbling, toss in your 8 ounces of penne and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. When it’s done, drain it and set it aside for now. You want it ready to mingle with all that creamy goodness!
Step 2: Sauté the Steak
Now, grab your skillet and heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once that oil is shimmering, it’s time to add your steak strips. I usually cook them for about 4-5 minutes until they’re beautifully browned and cooked to perfection. You want that nice sear for flavor! Make sure to give them a little stir so they cook evenly. Ooh, the smell is heavenly already!
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Next up, let’s add some color and crunch! Toss in your sliced bell peppers and onions into the skillet with the steak. Sauté everything together for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies are softened and vibrant. This step really brings the dish to life and adds that yummy sweetness from the onions and bell peppers. It’s like a party in your skillet!
Step 4: Mix in Cream and Seasonings
Now, it’s time to make it creamy! Stir in your 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of cajun seasoning. Make sure to mix it all thoroughly so every bit of steak and veggie is coated in that spicy, creamy goodness. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes until everything is heated through and slightly thickened. Wow, this is where the magic happens!
Step 5: Combine with Pasta and Cheese
Alright, let’s bring it all together! Add the cooked penne and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the skillet. Give it a good stir until the cheese melts and everything is well combined. You’ll want to do this over low heat to ensure that cheese gets all melty and gooey. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for—your creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet is almost ready!
Step 6: Final Seasoning
Before you dig in, give it a taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. This is your dish, so adjust it to your preference! Once it’s seasoned just right, serve it warm and get ready for some serious compliments!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s dive into the numbers! This creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet is not just delicious; it’s also packed with hearty ingredients that will fuel you up. Here’s a quick breakdown of the estimated nutritional data per serving:
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
Keep in mind that these values are based on typical ingredient brands and can vary depending on what you use. So, if you swap out ingredients or adjust portion sizes, the nutritional info might change a bit. But one thing’s for sure—you’re in for a satisfying meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without a long wait.
- Rich and Flavorful: With the combination of cajun seasoning, creamy sauce, and savory steak, every bite is a burst of flavor that will keep you coming back for more!
- Comforting Ingredients: The creamy cheddar and hearty penne pasta create a warm, comforting meal that feels like a cozy hug on a plate.
- One-Skillet Wonder: Easy cleanup is a dream! Everything cooks in one skillet, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time washing dishes.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to suit your taste—add more veggies, adjust the spice level, or even switch up the type of cheese for a unique twist!
- Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Tips for Success
- Adjust the Spice: If you’re a fan of heat, don’t shy away from adding a bit more cajun seasoning or even a dash of hot sauce! Start with a little and taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
- Choose the Right Steak: While I love sirloin for its tenderness, you can also use ribeye or even flank steak if you prefer something leaner. Just make sure to slice it against the grain for maximum tenderness!
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on your penne and aim for that al dente texture—nobody wants mushy pasta! It’ll continue to cook a bit when you mix it with the sauce.
- Experiment with Cheese: If you’re feeling adventurous, try mixing in a bit of pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for an even creamier texture. The cheese is where you can get really creative!
- Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions right before serving adds a lovely pop of color and freshness. It’s a little touch that makes a big difference!
- Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, you can slice your veggies and steak ahead of time. This way, when you’re ready to cook, everything’s ready to go—just like a culinary speedrun!
Variations
The beauty of this creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet is that it’s super versatile! You can easily switch things up to keep it exciting. Here are some fun ideas to customize your dish:
- Veggie Swap: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables! Zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach can add a nice twist. Just sauté them along with the bell peppers and onions for that perfect balance.
- Cheese Choices: While cheddar is delightful, you could use Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, or even a blend of cheeses for extra creaminess. I’ve also tried a touch of goat cheese for a tangy delight—so good!
- Pasta Varieties: If penne isn’t your style, any short pasta will work! Try rotini or fusilli for a fun twist, or even use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to fit your dietary needs.
- Protein Options: Not in the mood for steak? Swap it out for chicken, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
- Spice It Up: Want more heat? Toss in some diced jalapeños or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking. You can also experiment with different spice blends to find your favorite flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can elevate the dish! Try adding basil, cilantro, or thyme at the end for a fresh, aromatic touch. It makes everything taste so much brighter!
These variations will not only keep your meals fresh and exciting but also allow you to cater to your cravings and what you have on hand. Have fun experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Alright, let’s talk about how to keep those delicious leftovers of your creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet! If you happen to have any left (which, let’s be honest, is rare!), the best way to store it is in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days, so you can savor those amazing flavors even after the first meal!
When it comes to reheating, you want to do it gently to keep that creamy texture intact. I recommend using a skillet over medium-low heat. Just add a splash of water or a bit more cream to help loosen things up, and stir occasionally until it’s warmed through. You’ll want to keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t burn! If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave—just pop it in for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to heat evenly. But honestly, nothing beats the skillet method for that beautiful creamy consistency!
And voila! You’re all set to enjoy your creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet again. Trust me, it’s just as satisfying the second time around!
For more information on the benefits of cajun seasoning, check out this Healthline article.
If you’re interested in learning more about the nutritional value of pasta, visit this Nutrition Value page.
For tips on cooking steak perfectly, refer to this Serious Eats guide.
Print
Creamy Cajun Steak Cheddar Penne Skillet in 30 Minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and flavorful cajun steak cheddar penne skillet dish.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb steak, cut into strips
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1/2 cup onion, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add steak strips and cook until browned.
- Add bell peppers and onion. Sauté until softened.
- Stir in cajun seasoning and heavy cream. Mix well.
- Add cooked penne and cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese melts.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.
Notes
- Adjust cajun seasoning to taste.
- You can use any cut of steak.
- For a spicier dish, add more seasoning or hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet
