Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The tender steak tips coated in Cajun spices pair beautifully with the cheesy pasta, creating a meal that satisfies everyone at the table. This recipe stands out due to its simplicity and the ability to impress your guests or family without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The Cajun seasoning brings a delightful kick that enhances the overall taste of the meal.
Creamy Goodness: The combination of heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan creates a rich sauce that clings perfectly to each bowtie pasta.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize with vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color.
Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe is sure to impress guests at dinner parties or family gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into cooking, gather all the necessary tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
Large pot
Skillet
Mixing spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander
Importance of Each Tool
Large pot: Perfect for boiling pasta; it holds enough water for even cooking.
Skillet: Ideal for searing steak tips to achieve a delicious crust while keeping them tender inside.
Mixing spoon: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring that your sauce is evenly mixed.
Ingredients
For the Steak Tips
1 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
For the Pasta
12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
For the Sauce
2 tbsp butter
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
How to Make Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain the pasta using a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Steak Tips
In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
Add the sirloin or ribeye steak tips to the skillet.
Season with Cajun spices (if available) or salt and pepper. Sear for about 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add heavy cream, whole milk, and softened cream cheese to the skillet with steak tips.
Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely, creating a smooth sauce.
Gradually add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the sauce.
Toss gently until all pasta is coated with the cheesy sauce.
Serve immediately, garnishing with extra cheese if desired.
Enjoy your delicious Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta!
How to Serve Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta
Serving Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta can elevate your meal experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dish.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
Chopped Parsley: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Green Onions: Sliced green onions provide a mild onion taste that complements the dish well.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
Caesar Salad: The crispiness of romaine lettuce and creamy dressing pairs beautifully with the rich pasta.
Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds freshness and crunch.
Serve with Crusty Bread
Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the cheesy sauce.
Baguette Slices: Serve warm baguette slices on the side for a delightful touch.
How to Perfect Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta
To make your Cajun Steak Tips even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.
Use High-Quality Meat: Choosing fresh sirloin or ribeye steak tips ensures maximum flavor and tenderness.
Season Generously: Don’t skimp on Cajun seasoning; it’s key to achieving that authentic taste.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: This texture will hold up better against the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.
Balance the Creaminess: Add a splash of broth or juice if the sauce is too thick; this keeps it light and flavorful.
Best Side Dishes for Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta
Complement your meal with delicious side dishes that enhance the flavors of Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients, contrasting nicely with the rich pasta.
Roasted Vegetables: Mixed roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini provide sweetness and texture.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances the richness of the pasta while adding crunch.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn fits well with Cajun flavors; serve it grilled or boiled.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs nicely with spicy steak tips, offering a comforting side.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic complement the dish beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the steak. Cooking steak tips too long can make them tough. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Don’t forget seasoning properly. Failing to season your steak and pasta can lead to bland flavors. Use salt, pepper, and Cajun spices generously.
Skip using enough liquid. Not adding enough cream or broth can result in a dry pasta dish. Ensure you have adequate moisture for creamy texture.
Avoid not letting cheese melt fully. Adding cheese too quickly may prevent it from melting smoothly into the pasta. Stir continuously over low heat for a creamy finish.
Forgetting to taste as you cook can lead to unbalanced flavors. Always taste your dish before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta
Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Ensure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta
Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk or cream until warmed, stirring often.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta?
Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is a delicious dish featuring tender steak pieces seasoned with Cajun spices served over bowtie pasta coated in a creamy cheese sauce.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute bowtie pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.
How can I customize Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. You can also adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning.
Are there any vegetarian alternatives?
You can replace the steak tips with grilled vegetables or plant-based protein options like tofu or tempeh while keeping the cheesy sauce unchanged.
Final Thoughts
Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is not only flavorful but also versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Try this recipe today and enjoy its rich taste!
Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is a mouthwatering dish that brings together bold Cajun flavors and creamy textures, making it perfect for any occasion. The tender sirloin steak tips are seasoned with zesty spices and tossed with bowtie pasta enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, creating a satisfying meal that everyone will love. With its quick preparation time of under 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or impressing guests at dinner parties. Add your favorite vegetables for extra nutrition and color, and enjoy a hearty bowl of comfort that combines the best of Cajun cuisine with cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak tips
12 oz bowtie pasta
2 tbsp butter
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
4 oz cream cheese
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter and sear the steak tips, seasoning with Cajun spices or salt and pepper until browned (about 5–7 minutes).
Reduce heat to medium-low and add heavy cream, whole milk, and softened cream cheese. Stir until melted.
Gradually incorporate Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until smooth and creamy.
Toss in the cooked bowtie pasta until evenly coated in the sauce. Serve immediately.
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Category:Main
Method:Skillet cooking
Cuisine:Cajun
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 plate (approx. 300g)
Calories:745
Sugar:6g
Sodium:780mg
Fat:42g
Saturated Fat:25g
Unsaturated Fat:14g
Trans Fat:0g
Carbohydrates:60g
Fiber:3g
Protein:30g
Cholesterol:115mg
Keywords: For added flavor, customize your dish by including vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach. Ensure not to overcook the steak for optimal tenderness. Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor profile.