Cajun Steak Penne with Ranch Honey Cheese Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of Cajun-seasoned steak and the creamy, tangy ranch honey cheese sauce makes this dish a one-of-a-kind experience. The penne pasta soaks up the rich sauce, and the steak adds a hearty and flavorful element to the dish. With a little heat from the Cajun seasoning and a touch of sweetness from the honey, this recipe offers a balance of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. It’s the kind of comfort food you’ll want to make over and over again!

Ingredients

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

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of pasta water, and set it aside.
2. Cook the steak: While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sirloin strips with the Cajun seasoning, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Add the steak to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the steak is browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove the steak from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream, ranch dressing, and honey. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Add the cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce gets too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
5. Combine: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing it to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. Then, add the cooked steak back into the skillet and stir to combine all the ingredients.
6. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian option: Replace the steak with sautéed mushrooms or grilled chicken for a different protein option.
• Spicy option: For extra heat, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add some red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Cheese variation: You can substitute the cheddar cheese with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
• Low-carb option: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower penne for a low-carb version of this dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, though the texture may change slightly. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of steak for this recipe?

Yes, you can use flank steak, rib-eye, or even skirt steak. Just be sure to slice it thinly for the best texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the steak and sauce are best when freshly made, you can cook the steak and sauce ahead of time, then reheat and add the cooked pasta when you’re ready to serve.

How can I make the sauce creamier?

If you want an even creamier sauce, you can add a little more heavy cream or even a splash of whole milk. You can also increase the amount of cheese for a richer sauce.

Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you like—such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or rigatoni—in place of penne.

How spicy is this dish?

The level of spiciness is moderate due to the Cajun seasoning. If you prefer less spice, you can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your taste, or omit the black pepper and red pepper flakes.

Can I make this dish without ranch dressing?

While ranch dressing is a key part of the sauce, you can try using blue cheese dressing or a creamy Italian dressing for a different flavor. The sauce will still be creamy and flavorful!

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda, but the flavor will be a bit different. Cheddar adds a nice sharpness to the dish.

How do I store leftover Cajun Steak Penne?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to reheat it properly to maintain the creaminess of the sauce.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, you can increase the Cajun seasoning or add more red pepper flakes to make the dish spicier. Adjust the heat level to suit your preference.

Can I use a non-dairy substitute for the cream?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk like almond milk, though the flavor will be slightly different.

Conclusion

Cajun Steak Penne with Ranch Honey Cheese Sauce is a flavorful, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a hearty dinner. With a kick of spice from the Cajun seasoning, a rich and cheesy sauce, and tender steak, this dish is the perfect combination of savory, creamy, and slightly sweet. It’s easy to make, comforting, and sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for guests, this recipe will definitely impress!

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