Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet! It’s a dish that truly brings the flavors of the South right to your kitchen. The moment I take that first bite, I’m enveloped in the warmth of the spices, the tenderness of the steak, and the ooey-gooey goodness of melted cheddar cheese. It’s comfort food at its finest! I love how quick and easy it is to whip up, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll want to make it a regular part of your meal rotation!
Ingredients for Creamy Cajun Steak Cheddar Penne Skillet
Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish that’s bursting with flavor:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb steak, cut into strips
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
These ingredients come together to create a creamy, dreamy dish that’s sure to satisfy. Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking, and don’t skimp on that cheddar cheese—it really ties everything together! Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Creamy Cajun Steak Cheddar Penne Skillet
Now, let’s get cooking! This creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet comes together in just a few simple steps, and I promise you’ll be amazed at the deliciousness that unfolds.
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
First things first, let’s get that penne pasta cooking. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and add in 8 oz of penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. Remember, we want it to have a little bite to it, as it will finish cooking in the skillet. Once done, drain it and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Skillet
While the pasta is cooking, grab your trusty skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. This step is super important for searing the steak perfectly. You want that oil nice and hot, so when you add the steak, it sizzles! It’s all about that flavor, my friend.
Step 3: Cook the Steak
Now, add in 1 lb of steak cut into strips. Cook it for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the steak is nicely browned on the outside. You’ll know it’s done when it’s no longer pink in the center. Just keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overcook—nobody likes tough steak!
Step 4: Sauté Vegetables
Next up, toss in 1 chopped onion and 1 cup of sliced bell peppers into the skillet. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. This step really brings out the sweetness of the veggies and adds a lovely depth of flavor to the dish.
Step 5: Add Seasoning and Cream
Now it’s time for the magic! Stir in 2 tablespoons of cajun seasoning, 1 cup of heavy cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Watch as everything melds together into a creamy, dreamy sauce. Make sure to mix it well, so the flavors blend beautifully.
Step 6: Combine with Penne
Finally, add your cooked penne pasta to the skillet and give it a good toss to coat all that pasta in the rich sauce. You want to make sure every bite is packed with that creamy goodness. It should look absolutely irresistible!
Step 7: Final Seasoning
Before serving, taste your creation and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Don’t be shy—this is where you can really make it yours! If you want a little extra kick, feel free to add more cajun seasoning. And there you have it, a delightful creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet ready to be devoured!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for busy nights.
- Flavorful: The combination of cajun spices, tender steak, and rich cheddar creates a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds dancing!
- Satisfying: With hearty ingredients like steak and creamy cheese, it’s a dish that really fills you up and keeps you satisfied.
- Perfect for Weeknight Dinners: You can whip this up in no time, making it an ideal go-to meal when you need something delicious in a hurry.
- Gluten-Free: Made with gluten-free penne pasta, this dish is a great option for those who need to avoid gluten without sacrificing flavor.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my top tips to elevate this dish:
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re unsure about how spicy you want it, start with a little less cajun seasoning. You can always add more later! Taste as you go, and find that sweet spot for your palate.
- Use Quality Ingredients: The better the ingredients, the better your dish will taste! Choose a good quality steak and fresh veggies for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: Seriously, I can’t emphasize this enough! The more cheddar cheese you add, the creamier and more comforting the dish will be. Plus, who doesn’t love cheesy goodness?
- Perfect Creaminess: If the sauce is too thick for your liking, you can thin it out with a splash of pasta water or more cream. Just stir it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
- Mix and Match Veggies: Feel free to throw in other veggies you love! Zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach can add great flavor and texture. Just be sure to sauté them until they’re tender.
- Fresh Herbs: For an extra burst of flavor, try garnishing your skillet with fresh parsley or chives before serving. It adds a lovely freshness that complements the richness of the dish.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet that will impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information Section
Alright, let’s talk about the nutrition of this creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this information is just a general guide. Here’s what you can typically expect per serving:
- Calories: 650
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
Remember, these numbers can change based on what you choose, so feel free to tweak the recipe to fit your dietary needs. Enjoy this delicious dish while keeping an eye on those macros!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this heavenly creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet, and now you’ve got some leftovers? No worries! This dish stores beautifully and is just as delicious the next day. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
First, let your skillet cool down to room temperature. Once it’s cool, transfer the leftovers into an airtight container. This will help lock in the flavors and keep everything nice and creamy. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label it with the date so you know when you made it!
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheating is key to maintaining that perfect texture. I recommend using a skillet over medium heat for the best results. Just add a splash of cream or a little bit of chicken broth to keep it moist as it heats through. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed up, and you’ll find it’s almost as good as when you first made it!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Just pop it in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely (to avoid splatters!), and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed to your liking. Just remember, the microwave can sometimes dry it out, so adding a splash of liquid helps keep that creamy goodness intact!
With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet again and again. Happy eating!
FAQ Section
Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Absolutely! If you prefer chicken, just swap out the steak for an equal amount of chicken breast cut into strips. Cook it the same way, and you’ll have a delicious creamy cajun chicken cheddar penne skillet!
What if I don’t have cajun seasoning?
No worries! You can make your own cajun seasoning at home with a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano. Just adjust the amounts to your taste for that perfect kick!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Just cook everything and combine it when you’re ready to serve. Reheating will be just as delicious as when you first made it!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love heat, you can add extra cayenne pepper or even some diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables. Just be sure to taste as you go to find that perfect level of spice for your palate!
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! As long as you use gluten-free penne pasta, this creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet is a great gluten-free option. Just check the labels on your other ingredients to be sure!
Creamy Cajun Steak Cheddar Penne Skillet: 7 Flavorful Steps
- Temps Total: 30 minutes
- Rendement: 4 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Sans Gluten
Description
A creamy and flavorful dish combining cajun spices with steak and cheddar cheese over penne pasta.
Ingrédients
- 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 onion, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add steak strips and cook until browned.
- Add onion and bell peppers, sauté until softened.
- Stir in cajun seasoning, heavy cream, and cheese.
- Combine cooked penne with the skillet mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Temps De Préparation: 10 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 20 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Course
- Méthode: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sucre: 2g
- De Sodium: 800mg
- La graisse: 40g
- Graisses Saturées: 20g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 15g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 50g
- La fibre: 3g
- La protéine: 30g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 120mg
Mots-clés: creamy cajun steak cheddar penne skillet
