Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Parmesan Linguine Pasta

Ingredients

1½ lbs sirloin or ribeye steak tips, cut into bite-sized strips

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 linguine 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)

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine and cook until al dente, about 9–10 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2. Pat the steak tips dry and season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Sear steak tips in a single layer for 1–2 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover loosely.

4. Lower the heat to medium and add 2 tbsp butter to the same skillet. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Stir in heavy cream and whole milk. Add the cream cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth.

6. Add Parmesan, mozzarella, and ½ tsp Cajun seasoning. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is thick and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Add the cooked linguine to the sauce and toss gently until well coated. If needed, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.

8. Serve the cheesy linguine topped with the seared Cajun steak tips and garnish with fresh parsley.

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Servings: 4–6

Calories: 740 per serving (estimated)