Skillet Creamy Spicy Cajun Steak Cheddar Pasta

Skillet Creamy Spicy Cajun Steak Cheddar Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy kick. Juicy steak, bold Cajun seasoning, creamy sauce, and sharp cheddar all cooked together in one skillet. I made it once, and it quickly became a family favorite!

The Cajun spices bring the perfect heat, balanced by a rich, creamy sauce and melted cheddar cheese. The steak stays tender and flavorful, and the pasta soaks up all that cheesy, spicy goodness. Plus, one skillet means less mess and more time to enjoy.

If you love cheesy, spicy pasta dishes that are easy to make and packed with flavor, this is for you. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want a hearty, satisfying meal. I always make extra—it disappears fast!

Let’s cook this together! This skillet creamy spicy Cajun steak cheddar pasta is simple, indulgent, and absolutely delicious. You won’t want to miss out on this one!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold and Flavorful: The Cajun seasoning adds a spicy, smoky depth that livens up every bite.
• One-Pan Convenience: Cook everything in a single skillet, saving time and cleanup.
• Creamy and Cheesy: The cheddar cheese and heavy cream create a luscious sauce that wraps the steak and pasta perfectly.
• Versatile and Filling: Serve it as a hearty dinner or meal prep for lunches throughout the week.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in under an hour with simple ingredients and easy steps.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

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

Servings:
This recipe serves about 4 people generously.

Difficulty:
Intermediate—great if you have some cooking experience but still easy enough to follow step-by-step.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large heavy-bottom skillet or cast iron pan (at least 12 inches)
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander (for draining pasta)

Ingredients for Skillet Creamy Spicy Cajun Steak Cheddar Pasta

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• 1 lb sirloin steak, cut into thin strips
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
• 4 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Variations for Skillet Creamy Spicy Cajun Steak Cheddar Pasta

• Add More Veggies: Toss in sliced mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Different Cheese: Substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a milder or spicier twist.
• Make It Vegetarian: Swap steak for plant-based meat strips or grilled tofu and use vegetable broth.
• Extra Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicier dish.
• Creamier Sauce: Stir in a little cream cheese or mascarpone for even richer texture.

How to Make Skillet Creamy Spicy Cajun Steak Cheddar Pasta — Step-by-Step

1. Prepare the Steak and Vegetables

Pat the steak strips dry with paper towels to ensure good searing. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips in a single layer and sprinkle half the Cajun seasoning over them. Cook without moving for about 2-3 minutes to get a nice sear, then stir and cook another 2 minutes until browned but not fully cooked. Remove steak from skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sliced red bell pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

2. Cook the Pasta and Build the Sauce

Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet with the veggies. Pour in the beef broth and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.

3. Finish the Dish with Cream, Cheese, and Steak

Once the pasta is tender, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Return the steak strips to the skillet and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the steak to finish cooking and absorb the sauce flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving and Decoration

Serve this creamy Cajun steak pasta straight from the skillet for a rustic feel. Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top to add a fresh, mild bite and a pop of color. You can also add a pinch of extra Cajun seasoning or freshly ground black pepper if you like more heat.

Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. A crusty bread or garlic toast works well to soak up any leftover sauce.

Storing Skillet Creamy Spicy Cajun Steak Cheddar Pasta

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
• Freeze: This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly. For best results, freeze without the cream and cheese, and add them fresh when reheating.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Steak Cut: Use sirloin or flank steak for tenderness and flavor. Slice thinly against the grain to keep steak tender.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Check pasta frequently during simmering; al dente is best because it will continue to cook slightly with the sauce.
• Cajun Seasoning: Adjust seasoning to your taste — start with less and add more if you want extra spice.
• Cream and Cheese: Add cream and cheese off the heat or on low to prevent curdling and keep the sauce smooth.
• Searing Steak: Get a good sear on the steak strips for more flavor — don’t crowd the pan or stir too often.

Nutrition (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	610 kcal
Protein	38 g
Total Fat	32 g
Saturated Fat	14 g
Carbohydrates	45 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	5 g
Sodium	850 mg

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and can vary based on brands and ingredients used.

Skillet Creamy Spicy Cajun Steak Cheddar Pasta FAQs

Q: Can I use a different cut of steak?
A: Yes, flank or ribeye work well. Just slice thinly against the grain.

Q: What pasta works best?
A: Penne, rotini, or any short pasta that holds sauce nicely.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and seasoning are gluten-free.

Q: How spicy is this dish?
A: The Cajun seasoning provides moderate heat; adjust to your liking.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead?
A: Yes, you can cook the steak and vegetables in advance. Combine and finish sauce just before serving.

Conclusion

This Skillet Creamy Spicy Cajun Steak Cheddar Pasta balances bold Cajun flavors with creamy cheese sauce and tender steak for a satisfying one-pan meal. It’s a great way to bring a comforting, flavorful dinner to your table without fuss. Simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and rich taste make it a go-to for any day you want a cozy, filling dish.