The aroma of sizzling steak mingled with spicy cajun seasoning fills the kitchen, creating an irresistible invitation to anyone within a two-mile radius. Picture this: a creamy, cheesy pasta nestled among succulent pieces of perfectly seared beef, all dancing together in a glorious skillet. creamy sweet and spicy cajun chicken pasta spicy cajun honey butter chicken pasta That’s the magic of Cheesy Spicy Cajun Steak & Pasta Skillet, a dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I use chicken instead of steak in this recipe?
- What kind of cheese is best for this skillet dish?
- How can I make this dish spicier?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This recipe isn’t just about the flavors; it’s a heartwarming reminder of family gatherings where laughter and stories flowed as freely as the wine. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Get ready to whip up something extraordinary that will have everyone asking for seconds and possibly thirds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Cheesy Spicy Cajun Steak & Pasta Skillet combines ease and flavor for a winning meal
- You can adapt it with whatever pasta you have on hand, making it versatile
- The vibrant colors and aromas create an eye-catching presentation
- Perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for entertaining guests
Sharing this recipe at our last family reunion had everyone raving about the flavors—my uncle even tried to steal the leftovers!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Steak: Choose tender cuts like ribeye or sirloin for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Pasta: Use any pasta shape you love; I prefer penne for its sauce-hugging abilities.
- Cajun Seasoning: A good blend adds that signature kick; homemade is great, but store-bought works too.
- Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its delightful creaminess; don’t skimp on quality!
- Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar melts beautifully into the sauce for extra cheesiness.
- Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers add crunch and sweetness; go wild with red, yellow, or green.
- Onion: Use yellow onions for their mild sweetness; they become wonderfully caramelized when cooked. For more inspiration, check out this Chewy Caramel Coconut Cookies recipe.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic infuses the dish with robust flavor; use minced or crushed cloves for best results.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps sear the steak and sauté vegetables without sticking. For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors; season generously but taste as you go!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sear the Steak: Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Season your steak generously with salt and pepper before adding it to the pan. Cook until browned on both sides—about 4-5 minutes each side—then remove from heat and let rest.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet (don’t wash it yet!), toss in chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté them until soft and fragrant—around 5-7 minutes—while scraping any delicious bits from the bottom of the pan.
Add Garlic and Seasoning: When your veggies are looking lovely, add minced garlic along with Cajun seasoning. Stir continuously for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes aromatic but not burnt—trust me, no one wants burnt garlic.
Cook Pasta in Cream Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer while stirring constantly. Gradually add cheese until melted and creamy, then toss in cooked pasta so it can soak up all that flavorful goodness.
Combine Steak and Pasta: Slice your rested steak into bite-sized pieces before mixing it into the pasta mixture. Give everything a good stir so every forkful has steak and pasta twirling together in cheesy delight!
Now gather your crew around the table because it’s time to dig into this Cheesy Spicy Cajun Steak & Pasta Skillet! one pot cheesy mozzarella cajun steak pasta.
You Must Know
- This Cheesy Spicy Cajun Steak & Pasta Skillet is a one-pan wonder, combining robust flavors with minimal cleanup
- The dish’s aroma will have your family flocking to the kitchen, while the creamy texture and spicy kick create an unforgettable meal experience
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the steak first to develop rich flavors. While it rests, cook pasta and prepare the creamy sauce for seamless timing.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap the steak with chicken or shrimp for variety. Add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect flavors, don’t rush the searing process; let that caramelization happen!
- Make sure to salt your pasta water well—it’s flavorful magic!
- Remember, leftovers can be transformed into a delightful lunch wrap or salad topping
The first time I made this Cheesy Spicy Cajun Steak & Pasta Skillet, my friends declared it “life-changing.” Who knew that a simple skillet could earn such accolades? sweet and spicy garlic steak pasta.
FAQ
Can I use chicken instead of steak in this recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken works beautifully and absorbs all those delicious Cajun spices.
What kind of cheese is best for this skillet dish?
A blend of cheddar and cream cheese gives a rich and creamy texture that’s irresistible.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more Cajun seasoning or toss in some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Cheesy Spicy Cajun Steak & Pasta Skillet
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Cheesy Spicy Cajun Steak & Pasta Skillet is a delectable one-pan meal that combines tender steak, creamy pasta, and zesty Cajun flavors for an unforgettable dining experience. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, delivering a delightful blend of tastes and textures with minimal cleanup. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-make culinary masterpiece that will leave them asking for more!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (mixed colors)
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sear the steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper, then cook until browned (4-5 minutes per side). Remove from heat and let rest.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add onions and bell peppers. Sauté until soft (5-7 minutes), scraping the bottom of the pan.
- Add garlic and seasoning: Stir in minced garlic and Cajun seasoning; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook pasta in cream sauce: Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer while stirring. Gradually add cheddar until melted. Toss in cooked pasta to coat.
- Combine steak and pasta: Slice rested steak into bite-sized pieces and mix into the pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 37g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
