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Creamy Cajun Steak Mac and Cheese Skillet

Cajun steak mac and cheese - featured image
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This creamy Cajun steak mac and cheese skillet is a bold, comforting one-pan dinner featuring juicy steak, smoky Cajun spices, and a silky cheese sauce tossed with tender pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz sirloin steak, sliced thin against the grain (ribeye or New York strip also work)
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni (or cavatappi, shells, or gluten-free pasta)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cups whole milk (or 2% or unsweetened plant-based milk)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1–2 tsp additional Cajun seasoning (to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
  • Extra Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the steak dry with paper towels and slice into thin strips, about 1/4-inch thick. Toss with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let rest for 10 minutes at room temperature.
  2. Cook elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water just shy of al dente (about 1 minute less than package instructions, usually 6-7 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak strips in a single layer and sear 1-2 minutes per side until browned and just cooked through. Transfer steak to a plate and tent with foil.
  4. Lower heat to medium. Add 2 tbsp butter to the skillet, then add onion, red bell pepper, and garlic. Cook, stirring often, until veggies are soft and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.
  5. Pour in 2 cups milk and 1 cup heavy cream. Whisk to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, a handful at a time, until melted and smooth. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
  7. Add drained pasta and 1-2 tsp extra Cajun seasoning (to taste). Stir until well coated. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Return steak (and any juices) to the skillet. Fold gently to mix, ensuring steak is distributed throughout the pasta.
  9. Optional: Sprinkle extra cheese on top and broil for 2-3 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  10. Remove from oven, let rest for a minute, then garnish with green onions and parsley. Serve hot, straight from the skillet.

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce. Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference. If making gluten-free or dairy-free, use appropriate pasta and cheese substitutes. Broiling at the end gives a bubbly, golden crust. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated with a splash of milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: cajun steak mac and cheese, one pan dinner, creamy mac and cheese, skillet meal, steak pasta, comfort food, weeknight dinner, easy recipe

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/creamy-cajun-steak-mac-and-cheese-skillet-easy-one-pan-dinner/