🍽️ Cajun Steak Tips in Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta 🍝

Ingredients

For the Cajun Steak Tips
• 1–1.5 lbs sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into bite-size tips
• 1 ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

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For the Cheesy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta
• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups heavy cream (or 1½ cups cream + ½ cup milk)
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella (or Italian blend)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• ½–1 tsp Cajun seasoning (optional, for added kick)
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Bowtie Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook bowtie pasta until al dente.
3. Reserve ¼–½ cup pasta water.
4. Drain pasta and set aside.

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2. Prepare Cajun Steak Tips
1. Pat steak pieces dry with paper towels.
2. Toss steak with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the steak in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
5. Sear 2–3 minutes per side until browned and caramelized.
6. Reduce heat to medium, add butter and garlic; cook 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Add Worcestershire sauce and toss to coat.
8. Remove steak from the skillet and set aside.

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3. Make Cheesy Parmesan Sauce
1. In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter.
2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
4. Add Parmesan and mozzarella, stirring until melted and creamy.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and optional Cajun seasoning.
6. Add splashes of reserved pasta water until desired sauce thickness is reached.