Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta

Name: Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak tips; 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta; 2 tbsp butter; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup whole milk; 4 oz cream cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Published: August 30, 2025

by Simon

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold Flavor: The Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick, elevating your meal to something special.
Creamy Comfort: The combination of heavy cream, cream cheese, and cheeses creates a decadent sauce that clings to the pasta.
Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Family-Friendly: With its appealing flavors and fun pasta shape, even picky eaters will enjoy it.
Versatile Meal: You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables or swapping out proteins to suit your preference.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Skillet
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Essential for cooking the bowtie pasta evenly and efficiently.
Skillet: Ideal for searing steak tips to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust while locking in flavors.
Mixing bowl: Useful for combining ingredients like cheeses and cream without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Steak Tips

1 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized pieces

For the Pasta

12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta

For the Sauce

2 tbsp butter
1 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

How to Make Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak Tips

While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the sirloin or ribeye steak tips. Season with Cajun spices if desired.
Sear the steak tips for about 5-7 minutes until they are browned on all sides and cooked to your liking.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and cream cheese. Mix until well blended.
Pour this mixture into the skillet with cooked steak tips. Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese. Stir until cheeses melt and sauce thickens.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained bowtie pasta into the skillet. Toss gently until all pasta is coated with the creamy sauce.
Adjust seasoning if necessary before serving hot.

Now you’re ready to serve up delicious Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta! Enjoy your hearty meal!

How to Serve Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta

When you’re ready to enjoy your Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta, presentation can enhance the dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make your dish even more delightful.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh touch that adds color and flavor.

Serve with a Side Salad

A light green salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta and steak, adding a refreshing crunch.

Pair with Crusty Bread

Offer slices of warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a hearty meal.

Use Individual Bowls

Serving in individual bowls can make for an inviting presentation, especially for family-style dining.

How to Perfect Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta

To take your Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta to the next level, consider these helpful tips:

Choose Quality Meat: Opt for tender sirloin or ribeye steak tips for the best flavor and texture.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook your bowtie pasta until just al dente. It will absorb flavors better and hold its shape.
Balance Your Spices: Adjust the Cajun seasoning according to your spice tolerance. A little goes a long way!
Let the Sauce Thicken: Allowing your creamy sauce to simmer will enhance its richness and help it coat the pasta beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta

Complement your Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta by adding some delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:

Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic and olive oil provide a crunchy contrast.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These offer a nutty flavor that pairs well with creamy pasta dishes.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce dressed in Caesar dressing adds freshness and crunch.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is a healthy option that complements rich flavors nicely.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness and juiciness, balancing the spice of the dish.
Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a vibrant pop of flavor.
Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries provide a sweet contrast that enhances every bite.
Herb Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with herbs offers a subtle base that pairs well with bold flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the wrong cut of meat. Always choose tender cuts like sirloin or ribeye for Cajun steak tips. Tougher cuts can become chewy and less enjoyable.
Not seasoning adequately. Cajun flavors thrive on bold spices. Don’t skip the seasoning step; it’s crucial for a flavorful dish.
Overcooking the pasta. To achieve that perfect al dente texture, follow package instructions closely and taste the pasta just before draining.
Skipping the cheese blending. If you don’t mix the cheeses properly, you may end up with uneven flavors and textures in your pasta dish.
Ignoring resting time for meat. After cooking, allow the steak tips to rest for a few minutes. This helps retain their juices and enhances flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.

Freezing Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta

Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of cream or broth, stirring until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s some common questions about our delicious dish.

What are Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta?

Cajun steak tips are seasoned pieces of beef cooked until tender, served over bowtie pasta mixed with creamy cheeses for a rich flavor.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute bowtie pasta with penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Use less Cajun seasoning for milder flavor or more if you enjoy heat!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute steak tips with grilled vegetables such as zucchini and bell peppers while keeping the creamy sauce intact.

How do I store leftovers?

Make sure to store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze them for later enjoyment!

Final Thoughts

Cajun Steak Tips with Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice levels to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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