Cheesy Spicy Cajun Steak and Pasta Skillet
Craving a proper lush Cajun steak pasta skillet This cheesy spicy onepan recipe brings steakhouse vibes to your weeknight dinner Ready in under an hour Get the recipe ... Healthy Eats
Recipe Introduction
Fancy a bit of Southern comfort food? Ever thought, "I need something spicy, cheesy, and downright delicious?" Well, my friend, you've landed in the right place.
This Cajun steak pasta skillet is the answer! Imagine tender steak meets creamy, spicy pasta, all in one pan.
Quick Hook
Isn't it annoying when dinner takes ages? This Cajun steak pasta recipe is quick. It delivers huge flavor without the fuss. It's a spicy steak pasta skillet that’s ready in minutes!
Brief Overview
This dish takes inspiration from Louisiana-inspired pasta dishes. It's a celebration of bold flavors. It's easy to make, taking about 40 minutes from start to finish.
This recipe yields four servings, perfect for a family meal or a cosy night in.
Main Benefits
This one-pan steak pasta is packed with protein. It is great for those trying to increase their protein intake. It's the perfect way to elevate weeknight steak dinner ideas.
Honestly, it's a proper treat!
This Cajun steak pasta skillet recipe is my go-to. I love whipping it up when I want something quick and satisfying.
It's a total game-changer for weeknight steak dinner ideas . Think of it as a fancy restaurant dish, but made easy at home.
This recipe will transform your perception of steak pasta with creamy Cajun sauce . I remember the first time I made this; my family couldn’t get enough of it.
They raved about the spice and creamy texture. Even my picky eater cousin was digging in.
This skillet is incredibly versatile. This flank steak pasta skillet is easily customizable. You can adjust the heat to your liking. Plus, everything cooks in one pan. Less washing up. Win-win.
And with the rise in popularity of easy meals, this easy Cajun steak pasta recipe perfectly fits the bill. It's got all the elements you want: steak, pasta, a creamy, cheesy Cajun sauce, and minimal effort.
It's not just food; it's an experience. Let's get cooking!
Cheesy Spicy Cajun Steak and Pasta Skillet Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Let's Talk Cajun Steak Pasta Skillet Ingredients and Gear!
Right then, let's break down what you need for this brilliant Cajun steak pasta skillet . Honestly, it's mostly stuff you probably already have.
But let's get into the nitty-gritty, shall we? This is all about achieving that perfect spicy steak pasta skillet bite.
Main Ingredients for Your One-Pan Steak Pasta
Alright, pay attention! Precision is key.
- Flank Steak: 1 lb (450g) . Get a decent cut, not the cheapest. Look for good marbling for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Cajun Seasoning: 2 tablespoons . Store-bought is fine! Adjust it to your taste.
- Olive Oil: For searing and sautéing.
- Onion: 1 small . Diced.
- Garlic: 3 cloves . Minced. The aroma is divine!
- Bell Pepper: 1 (red or green). Diced.
- Cherry Tomatoes: 1 cup . Halved.
- Pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini): 8 oz (225g) . Anything that grabs the sauce.
- Chicken Broth: 3 cups (710ml) . Beef works too if you're feeling fancy.
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml) . Essential for the creamy sauce.
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 ½ cups (170g) . Sharp cheddar is the best in my opinion.
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional): ½ teaspoon . For extra kick.
- Parsley or Green Onions: For garnish. Makes it look posh.
Remember! You want good marbling on your steak. This equals flavour.
Seasoning Notes: Steak Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce
Cajun seasoning is the star here. This gives it that Louisiana-inspired pasta dishes punch. Add red pepper flakes if you like it extra spicy.
Trust me, you will love easy Cajun steak pasta !
Don't forget the basics. Salt and pepper are your friends. Taste as you go. This recipe is all about the right blend of spices!
Essential Equipment: Cast Iron Skillet Steak Pasta
You don't need a ton of gear for this flank steak pasta skillet .
- Large Skillet: Cast iron is ideal. It gives the steak a lovely sear. If you don't have one, use a good oven-safe skillet.
- Cutting Board: To slice the steak and chop the veggies. Obvious, really.
- Sharp Knife: A decent knife makes all the difference.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Get the quantities right.
You could even use a large frying pan if you are strapped for space. This recipe is all about simple cooking and amazing flavors, making it one of my go to weeknight steak dinner ideas .
Now get cooking!
Cheesy Spicy Cajun Steak and Pasta Skillet: A Southern Comfort Classic
Fancy a bit of Southern comfort food without the fuss? This Cajun steak pasta skillet is your answer! It's steakhouse indulgence meets weeknight simplicity.
Honestly, it's so easy, anyone can nail it. This spicy steak pasta skillet is guaranteed to become a family favourite.
Prep Steps: Get Your Mise en Place Sorted
First things first, let's get organised. It's the difference between a smooth cook and a stressful one, you know? Start by slicing your 1 lb (450g) flank steak thinly against the grain.
Get that Cajun seasoning ready, too. Mise en place, innit !
Essential mise en place : Dice your onion, mince the garlic, chop the bell pepper, and halve the cherry tomatoes.
Having everything prepped makes the cooking process so much smoother. Safety reminders (if applicable) : When slicing the steak, always use a sharp knife and a stable cutting board.
Step-by-Step Process: Skillet Magic
This is where the magic happens, mate! Five simple steps to one-pan steak pasta heaven!
- Toss the sliced steak with 2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning. Let it sit while you prep the veg.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet. Sear the steak for 2- 3 minutes per side until browned. You want that nice crust. Remove and set aside.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Sauté your diced onion and bell pepper until softened. Toss in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Add the halved tomatoes.
- Stir in the 8 oz (225g) of pasta and pour in 3 cups (710ml) of chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed. This takes about 15- 20 minutes .
- Stir in 1 cup (240ml) of heavy cream and 1 ½ cups (170g) of shredded cheddar cheese. Add the cooked steak and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if you like the heat). Cook until the cheese is melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Skillet Game
Want to take this Cajun steak pasta recipe from good to amazing? Here are a few tips, like Steak pasta with creamy Cajun sauce .
Don't overcook the steak. Seriously! Sear it hot and fast. It will continue to cook in the sauce.
Common mistake to avoid : I've overcooked steak a few times. This helps me control the heat. I prefer freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheese doesn't melt as well.
If you're thinking of this as weeknight steak dinner ideas , the steak can be seasoned and sliced earlier in the day.
Keep it covered in the fridge, obviously! This Louisiana-inspired pasta dish is so versatile.
This cheesy Cajun steak pasta is like a warm hug on a plate. It has tender steak, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy sauce.
It's a simple meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this Easy Cajun steak pasta !
Recipe Notes for the Best Cajun steak pasta skillet
Alright, let's chat about some finer points of this Cheesy Spicy Cajun steak pasta skillet . Honestly, this one-pan steak pasta is already pretty darn simple, but here are a few tips to make sure it's absolutely banging.
Plating and Presentation: Make it Look Good!
First impressions matter, right? Mound that creamy spicy steak pasta skillet high in bowls. Garnish with loads of fresh parsley or green onions.
A sprinkle of extra cheese never hurts either. I sometimes add a swirl of hot sauce for extra flair. Trust me, a little effort goes a long way.
It's all part of those weeknight steak dinner ideas that make everyone feel special.
Complementary pairings? I'm thinking a simple side salad with a vinaigrette would be perfect. A crisp lager or even a nice chilled glass of white wine will balance the richness.
Storing Like a Pro
Got leftovers of this Steak pasta with creamy Cajun sauce ? Lucky you!
Pop it in an airtight container and it'll keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can freeze it too, for up to a month.
When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to loosen up the sauce. Microwaving works, but a gentle simmer on the stovetop is where it's at.
I like that easy Cajun steak pasta the next day, still proper lush.
Adaptations: Mix it Up!
Want a lighter version of this Cajun steak pasta recipe ? Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half. It will be less rich, but still tasty.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. You could also use zucchini noodles. If you want an incredible vegetarian adaptation to this Cajun steak pasta recipe ? Just omit the steak.
Add extra veggies, like mushrooms, bell peppers and zucchini.
Seasonal ingredient swaps can also add a fresh twist. I once added grilled corn in the summer. Oh my gosh ! It was incredible!.
It's all part of that Louisiana-inspired pasta dishes vibe.
Nutrition: Know Your Numbers
This flank steak pasta skillet is hearty and satisfying. That means it also has some calories. Each serving has approximately 650-750 calories.
You're also getting around 40-50 grams of protein. This can all vary depending on the amount of serving and ingredients.
Remember, it's an estimate. Enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
I'm telling ya, this Cajun steak pasta skillet is a guaranteed win. It has got all the cheesy Cajun pasta flavors.
Don't be afraid to get creative and make it your own. You can do it! Now go forth and skillet!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Cajun steak pasta skillet ahead of time?
You can indeed! The pasta will absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so I recommend cooking the steak and pasta separately. When you're ready to serve, combine everything in the skillet and gently heat through. You might need to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Just remember to keep it in the fridge in an airtight container. Best to use it up within 3 days, yeah?
How spicy is this Cajun steak pasta skillet, and how can I adjust the spice level?
The spice level is really up to you! The Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes are the main drivers here. Start with a smaller amount of Cajun seasoning and taste as you go. If you're sensitive to heat, skip the red pepper flakes altogether. For the chilli-heads out there, add a dash of cayenne pepper for extra kick.
What's the best type of steak to use for this Cajun steak pasta skillet recipe?
Flank steak or sirloin are great choices because they're relatively tender and cook quickly. Just make sure you slice them thinly against the grain for the best texture, like you're carving a Sunday roast! If you're on a budget, you can even use skirt steak – it's full of flavor. The key is to not overcook the steak; you want it to stay nice and juicy.
Can I use a different type of cheese in my Cajun steak pasta skillet?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic, feel free to get creative. Pepper jack will amp up the spice. Monterey Jack cheese makes the dish very cheesy. A bit of parmesan can add a savory note. Just avoid cheeses that don't melt well, like feta.
What can I serve with this Cajun steak pasta skillet to make it a complete meal?
This skillet is pretty hearty on its own, but a side of crusty bread is always welcome for soaking up that delicious sauce. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing will also offer a refreshing contrast. And if you're feeling fancy, grilled asparagus or green beans would be a lovely addition! It would be lush after a long day at work.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Cajun steak pasta skillet I can make?
Definitely! Just skip the steak and load up on veggies. Sliced mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, and even some cooked black beans would be fantastic. You could also add some crumbled vegetarian sausage for a bit more protein. Ensure the broth you're using is vegetable broth, and you're good to go! If you want to add another veggie, don't be shy!
