If you love bold flavors, tender steak, and creamy cheesy pasta, this Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta will quickly become a go-to dinner. The juicy steak bites are seasoned with Cajun spices, seared to perfection, then paired with bowtie pasta smothered in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce with layers of mozzarella and cream cheese.
It’s a satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknights when you want something special without hours in the kitchen. Plus, the one-pan sauce makes cleanup easy, so you get all the flavor with minimal fuss.
Essential Elements and Equipment
- A large pot for boiling pasta, ideally with a strainer insert for easy draining.
- A heavy-bottom skillet or cast-iron pan for searing the steak and making the sauce.
- A good, sharp knife and a cutting board to prep the steak.
- Whisk and wooden spoon for stirring the sauce smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accurate seasoning and ingredients.
- Tongs for tossing pasta and flipping steak pieces.
Quality ingredients make a big difference here; fresh garlic, good-quality Parmesan, and a decent cut of sirloin or ribeye will elevate the dish. Using a heavy skillet ensures nice searing and keeps the sauce luscious.
What Makes This Recipe Work
- Cajun seasoning: Gives the steak a smoky, spicy kick that balances perfectly with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Searing steak tips: High heat searing locks in juices and creates a flavorful crust.
- Velvety cheese sauce: A blend of Parmesan, mozzarella, cream cheese, heavy cream, and milk creates a rich, smooth, and indulgent sauce.
- Bowtie pasta: Its shape holds onto the thick sauce beautifully, making every bite cheesy and satisfying.
- Balanced seasoning: The Cajun seasoning in both steak and sauce layers the heat and depth without overpowering the dish.
- One-skillet sauce: Using the same pan for sauce lets the sauce absorb all the fond and the browned bits from the steak, boosting flavor.
- Parsley garnish: Adds freshness and a pop of color that brightens the heavy creaminess.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ tsp Cajun seasoning (to tie the flavor together)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 to 11 minutes. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water. Drain and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Pat the steak tips dry with paper towels. Season evenly with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips in a single layer. Sear for 1 to 2 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and milk. Add the softened cream cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth.
Step 6: Add the Parmesan, mozzarella, and remaining ½ teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 8: Plate the cheesy pasta and top with the seared Cajun steak tips. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Variations You Can Try
One of the best things about this Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is how versatile it is. Here are some ways to customize it to fit your tastes or dietary needs:
- Swap the steak: If steak isn’t your thing or you want a budget-friendly option, use boneless chicken thighs or breasts cut into strips. You can also try Italian sausage or even shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Make it spicier: Increase the Cajun seasoning or add extra crushed red pepper flakes for more heat. For a smoky depth, add a pinch of smoked chipotle powder.
- Creamy but lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce. You can also use Greek yogurt stirred in at the end (off heat) for tang and creaminess without extra fat.
- Add veggies: Toss in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for color, texture, and nutrients. They pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and Cajun flavors.
- Gluten-free option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta instead of bowtie. Just adjust cooking time according to package instructions.
- Cheese variations: Try swapping mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a slightly different creamy profile. A touch of sharp cheddar can add bite.
- Herb swaps: If you don’t have parsley, fresh basil or cilantro works nicely for garnish and adds a fresh note.
This recipe lends itself well to creativity, so feel free to make it your own while keeping that delicious creamy, cheesy, and spicy balance.
How to Serve
This dish is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, so pairing it with light, fresh sides makes for a balanced meal. Here are some ideas:
- Green salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple lemon vinaigrette brightens the plate and cuts through the richness.
- Roasted or steamed veggies: Asparagus, broccoli, or green beans work wonderfully here. Lightly steamed or roasted with olive oil, salt, and pepper, they add a nice crunch and fresh flavor.
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette: Perfect for sopping up every last bit of that creamy sauce. Toast with a little garlic butter for an irresistible side.
- Light coleslaw: A tangy cabbage slaw adds crunch and a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Simple beverages: Sparkling water with lemon or iced herbal tea complements the dish well and refreshes your palate between bites.
The balance between creamy and fresh sides will make your meal feel complete and satisfying.
Tips for the Best Results
To get this recipe just right, here are some practical tips from my kitchen:
- Pat the steak dry before seasoning to ensure a nice sear and prevent steaming.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing steak tips. Cook in batches if needed to maintain a good crust.
- Reserve pasta water before draining; its starchiness helps loosen the sauce without diluting flavor.
- Cook pasta al dente since it will finish cooking briefly in the sauce.
- Low and slow for melting cheese: Stir cheese in gradually over low heat to avoid a grainy texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning after melting the cheese, especially salt, since cheese adds saltiness.
- Let the sauce rest for a minute off the heat to thicken and meld flavors.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish for the best flavor and presentation.
- Leftovers reheat well gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Following these tips will help you deliver a perfectly creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish every time.
Cooking Notes
- Use a heavy skillet or cast iron pan for the best searing results.
- If the sauce thickens too much, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time.
- Avoid burning garlic by cooking it on medium or medium-low heat.
- Let the steak rest a few minutes after cooking to keep it juicy.
- Please don’t skip the Parmesan crust on the steak; it adds a great texture contrast.
- Freshly grated cheese melts more evenly than pre-shredded cheese.
- Bowtie pasta holds sauce well, but feel free to substitute other short pasta shapes.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 725
- Protein: 52g
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use another cut of steak?
Yes! Sirloin and ribeye are great for tenderness and flavor, but you can also use skirt steak, flank steak, or even stew beef. Just adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking.
What if I don’t have cream cheese?
Cream cheese adds creaminess and body, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with extra heavy cream or mascarpone for a similar effect.
How spicy is this dish?
The Cajun seasoning adds a mild to medium heat with smoky flavor. You can reduce or increase the amount depending on your spice tolerance. Adding crushed red pepper flakes will also up the heat.
Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best fresh, but you can prepare components ahead cook and season the steak, boil the pasta, and make the sauce separately. Reheat gently and toss everything together before serving.
Conclusion
This Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is one of those recipes that hits every note, tender, flavorful steak with a spicy kick, paired with pasta coated in a decadent, cheesy sauce that’s just begging to be eaten. It’s a perfect balance of comfort food and a bit of indulgence, great for a family dinner or impressing guests without stress.
What makes it really special is how simple the process is. The steak sears quickly, and the sauce comes together in one skillet, saving time and dishes. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable with different proteins or veggies.
Give it a try and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen. You’ll love how the flavors meld together, and your family will be asking for seconds before you know it.
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Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ tsp Cajun seasoning (to tie the flavor together)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, about 10 to 11 minutes. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water. Drain and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Pat the steak tips dry with paper towels. Season evenly with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak tips in a single layer. Sear for 1 to 2 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 5: Pour in the heavy cream and milk. Add the softened cream cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth.
Step 6: Add the Parmesan, mozzarella, and remaining ½ teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 8: Plate the cheesy pasta and top with the seared Cajun steak tips. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 725
- Sodium: 780
- Fat: 42
- Protein: 52