When it comes to hearty and flavorsome dinners, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a delightful bowl of Cajun Steak and Parmesan Shells. This dish beautifully marries tender sirloin steak and creamy pasta shells with a kick of cajun spice. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering of friends, this recipe shines with its robust flavors and is sure to impress anyone at the dinner table.

Why you’ll love this dish

Cajun Steak and Parmesan Shells is a standout meal for so many reasons. Beyond its rich and zesty flavor profile, this dish is quick to prepare—making it a fantastic option for busy evenings. In under 30 minutes, you can create a meal that feels both luxurious and comforting. Not to mention, Cajun seasoning adds an exciting twist that elevates standard pasta night to something truly special.

"This dish was a total hit at our family dinner! The cajun spices and creamy pasta made it irresistible." – Happy Cook

Step-by-step overview

The magic of Cajun Steak and Parmesan Shells lies in the simplicity of its preparation while allowing room for creativity. You’ll be searing the seasoned steak to perfection, followed by the union of garlic, cream, and parmesan for an oh-so-decadent sauce. Then, it all comes together with pasta shells—easy, delicious, and satisfying!

What you’ll need

To embark on your culinary journey, gather the following ingredients:

Sirloin steak
Pasta shells
Cajun seasoning
Garlic
Parmesan cheese
Cream

Feel free to get creative with the cajun seasoning; if you prefer a milder flavor, you could use half the amount to suit your taste buds.

Directions to follow

Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the sirloin steak, generously seasoned with cajun seasoning, until it’s browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from the skillet and let it rest.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
Pour in the cream, stirring well, followed by the grated parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts perfectly into the sauce.
Slice the rested steak and toss it with the sauce, followed by the cooked pasta shells.
Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan if desired.

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Best ways to enjoy it

This dish is as versatile as it is delicious. You can serve it straight from the pan for a rustic family-style dining experience or plate it beautifully for a more elegant presentation. Pair your Cajun Steak and Parmesan Shells with a fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette to balance the richness or some crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Storage and reheating tips

Wondering how to save leftovers? Store any uneaten Cajun Steak and Parmesan Shells in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm up the dish in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Always ensure food is heated thoroughly before enjoying it again.

Helpful cooking tips

Cooking intelligence can transform your meal! Here are some quick pro tips:

Let the steak rest after cooking. This keeps it juicy and tender.
Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and texture—pre-grated cheese can lack the creaminess you desire.
Feel free to add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce if you want that extra zing!

Creative twists

Could this dish use a little personality? Absolutely! Here are a few fun variations to consider:

Add sautéed bell peppers or onions to the mix for added texture and sweetness.
Swap out sirloin for shrimp or chicken for a different protein experience.
Experiment with different cheese types—asiago or mozzarella can add delightful layers of flavor.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to make Cajun Steak and Parmesan Shells?
Approximately 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a midweek meal.

Can I substitute the cream for something lighter?
Yes! You can use low-fat milk or even a plant-based cream if you prefer a lighter option.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
While pasta can get mushy when frozen, you can freeze the sauce separately and cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to enjoy it again. Just remember, only freeze leftovers that you haven’t previously reheated.

Cajun Steak and Parmesan Shells is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings flavor, comfort, and a touch of spice to your dining table. Enjoy crafting this dish, and let the delightful aromas fill your kitchen!

Cajun Steak and Parmesan Shells

Author: majestyrecipes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and flavorsome dish that combines tender sirloin steak and creamy pasta shells with a kick of cajun spice.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb Sirloin steak
8 oz Pasta shells
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 cup Cream

Instructions

Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the sirloin steak, generously seasoned with cajun seasoning, until it’s browned and cooked to your liking. Remove from the skillet and let it rest.
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
Pour in the cream, stirring well, followed by the grated parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts perfectly into the sauce.
Slice the rested steak and toss it with the sauce, followed by the cooked pasta shells.
Serve hot, garnished with extra parmesan if desired.

Notes

Let the steak rest after cooking for juiciness. Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Searing
Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 550
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: Cajun, Steak, Pasta, Quick Dinner, Comfort Food