One Pan Cheesy White Cheddar Cajun Steak Pasta Bliss

Craving cheesy steak pasta with a Cajun twist? This one pan wonder is bold, creamy, and so full of flavor!

You get tender steak, Cajun spices, and melty white cheddar all mixed with cozy pasta. Every bite is cheesy, saucy, and super tasty.

Perfect for steak night, cozy dinners, or when you want something fancy but easy. One pan. Big flavor. No stress.

Grab your steak and pasta—let’s cook up this cheesy Cajun bliss tonight!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Steakhouse Quality, One Pan Simplicity: Get all the richness of a steakhouse pasta without dirtying extra dishes.
• Deep Cajun Flavor: Smoky, spicy seasoning infuses every bite with warmth and complexity.
• Creamy and Cheesy: White cheddar melts into the pasta to create a sauce that’s both sharp and smooth.
• Weeknight Friendly: It’s quick enough to make on a weeknight but feels special enough for a weekend dinner.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the heat level or swap pasta types for what you have on hand.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: About 50 minutes

Servings: Makes about 5 hearty servings — perfect for dinner and a few leftovers.

Difficulty: Easy enough for a beginner, flavorful enough to impress guests.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large, deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Tongs
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Cheese grater
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish (exact measurements in the recipe card below):

• 1 lb beef sirloin steak, cut into 1-inch strips
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or similar short pasta)
• 4 cups water or beef broth
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: chopped green onions or parsley, for garnish

Variations for One Pan Cajun Steak Pasta

• Use Chicken Instead of Steak: Chicken breast or thighs work well with Cajun seasoning too.
• Add Veggies: Bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach can be added for more texture and color.
• Make It Extra Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese to the sauce.
• Low-Sodium Option: Use homemade Cajun seasoning with less salt.
• Mild Version: Reduce Cajun seasoning and add a dash of smoked paprika for flavor without the kick.

How to Make One Pan Cheesy White Cheddar Cajun Steak Pasta Bliss

(Step-by-Step Instructions)

1. Prepare the Steak

Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef sirloin and slice it into even, 1-inch thick strips. This ensures even cooking and helps the seasoning coat each piece properly.

2. Season the Steak

Place the steak strips in a bowl and sprinkle the Cajun seasoning evenly over them. Toss gently until all the pieces are well-coated. Let it sit while you prepare your skillet — this gives the spices a few minutes to absorb.

3. Sear the Steak

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the steak strips in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan — sear in batches if needed.

Sear the steak on each side for 1–2 minutes until browned. It doesn’t need to be fully cooked through yet. Remove the steak from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

4. Build the Pasta Base

In the same skillet (keep the browned bits — they add flavor), add 4 cups of water or beef broth. Bring it to a boil, then stir in 1 pound of dry pasta.

Lower the heat to medium, cover, and simmer for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente. Most of the liquid should be absorbed, leaving just enough for a light sauce.

5. Make It Creamy

Once the pasta is tender, stir in 1/2 cup of whole milk and 1/4 cup of butter. Let the butter melt completely while gently folding the ingredients together.

Add in 1 cup of shredded white cheddar cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and fully coats the pasta. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of extra milk or broth to loosen it.

6. Bring It All Together

Return the seared steak to the pan, stirring gently to combine with the pasta. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes over low heat, just until the steak is heated through and coated in the cheesy sauce.

Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed

Serving Suggestions

This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but here are a few simple ways to round out the meal:

• Fresh Greens: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the creamy pasta.
• Roasted Veggies: Serve alongside roasted broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers.
• Warm Bread: Garlic bread or a rustic baguette is great for scooping up extra sauce.

For garnish, sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh parsley over the top for color and a fresh finish.

Storing and Reheating

Storage:
Let leftovers cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating Tips:
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally to prevent clumping.

Avoid overheating to keep the steak tender and the sauce smooth.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can result in a grainy sauce. Grate it yourself for a smoother melt.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Stop cooking once it’s just al dente—remember, it’ll keep absorbing sauce as it sits.
• Let the Steak Rest After Searing: This helps retain juices when added back into the pasta.
• Taste Before Serving: Cajun seasoning blends vary in salt and spice—adjust to your preference before final plating.

Nutrition (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	560
Protein	35g
Fat	26g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	3g
Sodium	720mg

(Based on 5 servings, using beef broth and whole milk. Values may vary based on brand and portion sizes.)

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes. While white cheddar provides a sharp and creamy flavor, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even smoked gouda work well too.

Q: Is this recipe spicy?
The Cajun seasoning adds a medium heat level. For a milder version, use less seasoning or choose a low-sodium Cajun blend.

Q: Can I make it ahead?
Yes, you can cook the steak and pasta ahead of time. Reheat gently with extra milk or broth to maintain the creamy texture.

Q: Can I use leftover steak?
Absolutely. Just slice and add it in at the end when reheating the pasta and sauce.

Conclusion

This One Pan Cheesy White Cheddar Cajun Steak Pasta Bliss is one of those comfort meals that brings everything to the table—flavor, simplicity, and satisfying creaminess. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight family dinner or meal prepping for the days ahead, it’s an easy go-to that never disappoints. The Cajun kick, the seared steak, and the silky cheese sauce all come together in one skillet for a dish you’ll want to make again and again.