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Cajun Steak Penne

Cajun Steak Penne

Discover the perfect blend of spicy and creamy with Cajun Steak Penne a quick 25-minute weeknight dinner that your family will love.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into thin strips
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup ranch dressing
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper, plus more for garnish
  • to taste salt
  • to garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Tongs or a slotted spoon
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Boil a large pot of salted water for the penne and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Toss steak strips with Cajun seasoning after patting dry.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the seasoned steak for about 2-3 minutes on each side.
  4. Remove the steak to a plate and let it rest.
  5. In the same skillet, melt butter, add heavy cream, ranch dressing, and honey, whisking until simmering.
  6. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper, mixing until smooth.
  7. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until melted.
  8. Drain the penne and add it to the cheesy sauce, tossing to coat.
  9. Return the steak to the skillet and fold everything together, cooking on low for 2-3 minutes.
  10. Garnish with fresh parsley and black pepper before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

You can substitute chicken or shrimp for the steak if preferred. For a lighter version, reduce the amount of heavy cream or use low-fat ranch dressing. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat with a bit of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
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