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Cajun Steak Penne with Parmesan Cream Sauce

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A quick and bold weeknight meal featuring tender steak tips and a velvety Parmesan cream sauce over penne pasta.

Ingredients

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  • 1.5 lbs sirloin steak tips, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, adjust to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, loosely packed, plus more for serving
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside without rinsing.
  2. Pat the steak tips dry with paper towels and season with Cajun seasoning.
  3. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak tips for 2-3 minutes per side until medium-rare. Remove and let rest.
  4. Reduce the heat and add the remaining olive oil and butter to the skillet. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
  5. Whisk in the flour for a minute, then gradually add milk and cream, simmering until thickened.
  6. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  7. Add the cooked penne and steak tips to the sauce, tossing gently to combine.
  8. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Notes

For a lighter sauce, reduce heavy cream by 0.25 cup and increase milk. Use gluten-free pasta and flour if needed.

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