Cheesy Spicy Cajun Steak & Pasta Skillet

Cheesy Spicy Cajun Steak & Pasta Skillet. Ready to cook?

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) steak (sirloin, ribeye, or your favorite cut), thinly sliced

• 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (more if you like it spicy)

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, diced

• 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

• Red pepper flakes or hot sauce (optional for extra heat)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta: Boil pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prep the steak: Toss sliced steak with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

3. Cook the steak: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add steak slices and sear for 2-3 minutes per side until browned but still tender. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.

4. Sauté veggies: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper until softened, about 4-5 minutes.

5. Add tomatoes: Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.

6. Make the sauce: Pour in heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer. Add salt, pepper, and extra Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes to taste.

7. Combine: Add the cooked pasta and steak back into the skillet. Stir to coat everything in the creamy sauce.

8. Cheese it up: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.

9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley or green onions on top. Serve hot and enjoy!